| Grass Valley Museum
Stand in a Gold Rush classroom. Walk through an early doctor's office. Picture yourself in the antique clothing preserved behind glass at the Grass Valley Museum.
Linger in the quiet chapel room and library. In the adjoining parlor enjoy oil paintings as you stand on polished wood floors beside Victorian era settees.
The Grass Valley Museum was an orphange in Gold Rush times, established by Father William Dalton, pastor of St. Patrick's Church, in 1865. It was built on the grounds of Mt. St. Mary's convent by the community to care for children orphaned by mining accidents. Five Sisters of Mercy from Ireland expanded the orphanage to include a school.
Today you can almost hear the echoes of children reciting their lessons as you stand behind the teacher's desk in the restored classroom.
Imagine the sisters of days gone by fighting vanity by painting the designs and scenes you see before you, over the reflecting surfaces of mirrors.
The Grass Valley Museum depicts the rich history of this area from Gold Rush days to 1930 with displays of old time artifacts, clothing and furnishings of the Victorian era.
And before or after your trip through the museum, enjoy the magnificent 130 year old rose garden located in front of the building.
You'll find the Grass Valley Museum at...
410 S. Church Street in Grass Valley, a short walk from the center of town.
It's open from 12:30 to 3:30 every afternoon, Tuesday through Friday, or by appointment.
For more information, call (530) 273-5509
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