Antique Tool Museum — Attraction in Oroville

Not only can you see over 13,000 tools beautifully mounted on the walls, and identified and databased, but there are presentations on the 3rd Saturday of every month (except December). Their website gets over 50,000 hits a month! People write in asking for help identifying tools or sharing their finds. Many experts in diverse fields (mechanical, electronic, steel working, finances, etc.) are speakers and explain the tools of their trades. Oftentimes when a topic is related to cars, tractors, military vehicles, stationary engines, etc. the parking lot will be FILLED with examples where discussions continue. The museum was founded by Bud & Laila Bolt 11 years ago; they donated 6,000 of their tools to the city to get things off and running. One of Bud's goals was to be open 7 days a week and the museum has been doing that for some years now. Groups like the local DAR chapter and the Old Time Fiddlers use the facilities in the evenings... it's a nice building, with good heat and air conditioning. Please, bring your family and friends and check it out! Hit the website to see what might be coming up talk-wise to add to your experience. And... remember, that if you have old tools you'd like to share, come by and see if yours are already represented or if they'd be...

We were in Oroville from Raleigh, NC visiting my wife's mother. I just happened to see a flyer for this place at the motel we were staying at. I never imagined such a place existing. If you have even the slightest interest in tools you should stop by. So many different types and varieties from decades, centuries ago. We were on a bit of a time line so we only stayed about an hour. However, next time we are in Oroville I will be devoting a good 2-3 hours to look at every piece and take it all in. The two gentlemen working were very knowledgeable about the tools and were eager to answer...

This is the largest hand tool collection in North America! Very well organized with sections of pliers to shoe maker tools, barbed wire and black smithing as well. For such a small museum, it packs a pretty big punch! Definitely worth the trip if you're into tools at all and even if you aren't. The docents are very knowledgeable and when you get to hear some of the history and stories behind the pieces that have been collected, it's easy to get hooked in. You can also take home a souvenir of your trip from books, t-shirts and lots of...