Mariposa Museum & History Center — Attraction in Oakhurst

This is an interesting little place, the history of Mariposa is fascinating. The only downfall to our visit was the rude docent/volunteer working there on 09/19. Admission fee is an honor system, which we are aware of as we've been before as it's part of our community. We brought out of the country visitors with us. But as soon as we entered the front door, the docent abruptly barked from across the old general store counter it's $5 a person - not once, but twice! (no, hello, how are you, thanks for coming.) I signed us in the entrance book, next to the admission information sign which was clearly visible. Some of my guests were offended by her attitude and went outside to sit, not wanting to come in. I asked if they could go to the gift shop as my guests wanted souvenirs and she said gift shop is free but if they plan on walking around its $5 each! As they went to the gift shop and I'm looking in my wallet to put money in the bucket, she yells across the floor at me, "How many are you paying for?" She completely ruined our visit. Unacceptable behavior, even if she is a docent. Maybe she was unaware of her unpleasant attitude. The other two prior visits were nice and enjoyable, and the docents were amicable and helpful. I wish we had went to the Mariposa Mineral and Gem museum instead. If you want to learn history of Mariposa and Yosemite as well as the gold rush, certainly stop in; the outside exhibits are interesting. I took my guests to other parts of Mariposa the same day where they were warmly welcomed...

The Mariposa Museum & History Center is a great place to learn about the history of the Mariposa County area. The museum is located in the historic county courthouse, and it is home to a variety of exhibits on the Gold Rush, Native American culture, and the development of Yosemite National Park.

The museum's Gold Rush exhibit is particularly well-done. It features a variety of artifacts, including mining equipment, clothing, and personal belongings from the era. The exhibit also tells the stories of the miners who came to Mariposa County in search of gold.

The museum also has a good exhibit on Native American culture. This exhibit features artifacts from the Miwok, Mono, and Paiute tribes, who were the original inhabitants of the Mariposa County area. The exhibit also tells the story of the Native Americans' interactions with the miners and settlers.

The museum's Yosemite National Park exhibit is also worth seeing. This exhibit tells the story of the park's creation and development, and it features a variety of artifacts, including photographs, maps, and paintings.

The Mariposa Museum & History Center is a great place to learn about the history of the Mariposa County area. It is a well-organized and informative museum, and it is a must-visit for anyone interested in the history of the Gold Rush, Native American culture, or Yosemite National Park

Follow me on IG...

The Mariposa Museum and History Center (US$5 per person) is an excellent attraction in the historic town of Mariposa. It is located just off Hwy 140 in the middle of town. Opening hours are 10am to 4pm daily. This is a must-see attraction for history buffs or anyone interested in the gold rush, mining and pioneer days in Mariposa county.

Outside of the museum you will see mining equipment used within area mines during the 19th century. Inside there are numerous exhibitions with countless artefacts and items from the pioneer days in Mariposa County. You will see displays related to post 1849 gold rush and the massive migration into Mariposa Country and the State of California at that time.

We very much enjoyed the displays and how they were organised into an old town of sorts, including houses, shops, schools, saloons and other collections of items. Lots of letters from important pioneers, information related to the items being exhibited. There is an information brochure as well highlighting important and most interesting things to see within the collection.

You'll also find a section of the museum with Yosemite area rock climbing as well as area Native American history exhibitions as well as a small book and gift area as well. There are public toilets just outside the museum and a fair amount of parking...