The Kern River Valley Historical Society has been in operation for over 40 years. Our mission is to preserve and communicate the rich and colorful history of this region. To achieve these goals we have established the Kern Valley Museum in downtown Kernville next to the Post Office.
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The Art Room of the Museum will feature the art of Margaret Smith. 

Her art is diverse and fun to look at. You will see gourds that have been decorated in unusual forms, dream catchers, and pinion needlework. All done in the Smith style.

This is a display that you won’t want to miss.

So come on down and visit us Thursday, Friday, thru Sunday between 10 and 4. And while you’re there say hi and sit a spell and visit!!
 

The Kern Valley Museum houses artifacts from prehistoric times to the present.  We have a large geological and fossil exhibit, mining and ranching artifacts, an interactive history of the Edison hydroelectric plants, exhibits of the movie-making history of the area and construction of the Isabella Dam.


There are thousands of photographs of the early settlers, miners, cowboys and Indians.

Our wonderful back porch and yard are home for a 1925 Graham Truck, covered wagon and the Stagecoach John Wayne rode while filming scenes of “Stagecoach” in our Valley.

We also have a giant stamp mill used to render gold-bearing ore to powder, a working assay office, blacksmith shop and a restored and furnished 100 year old cabin.


In the 1850’s, Gold Fever gripped the nation. The Kern River Valley was part of the gold rush that spurred the westward migration of fortune seekers who became ranchers, farmers and merchants when the gold played out.

The Museum stands rich in history.  Come and discover the treasures it holds!





 
 

Location

49 Big Blue Road
PO Box 651
Kernville, CA 93238
(760) 376-6683
Hours:
10 am - 4 pm
Thursday - Sunday

Admission is Free

Contact us