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Berkeley Historical Society & Museum: Unearthing the City's Past

Explore Berkeley's past through captivating exhibits and archives at the Berkeley Historical Society & Museum in the heart of downtown.

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The Berkeley Historical Society & Museum, located in Downtown Berkeley's Veterans Memorial Building, preserves and shares the city's unique history through exhibits, archives, and events. Founded in 1978, it offers a glimpse into Berkeley's evolution as a center of innovation and activism.

A brief summary to Berkeley Historical Society & Museum

  • Thursday 1 pm-4 pm
  • Friday 1 pm-4 pm
  • Saturday 1 pm-4 pm

Local tips

  • Check the Berkeley Historical Society & Museum's website for information on current exhibits and events before visiting.
  • Consider taking public transportation, as the museum is located near the Downtown Berkeley BART station and several AC Transit bus lines.
  • Street parking is available but may be limited; a city parking garage is located one block east on Center Street.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From the Downtown Berkeley BART station, walk 1.5 blocks west on Center Street. The Berkeley Historical Society & Museum is located at 1931 Center Street, in the Veterans Memorial Building, across from Civic Center Park.

  • Public Transport

    Several AC Transit bus lines serve the area. Take any bus that stops near the intersection of Shattuck Avenue and Center Street. From there, walk one block east on Center Street to the museum. AC Transit local fares are around $2.50.

  • Driving

    From I-80, take the University Avenue exit and head east. Turn right onto Martin Luther King Jr. Way, then turn right onto Center Street. The museum will be on your left. Limited street parking is available, with a two-hour limit on weekdays for non-residents. A city parking garage is located one block east on Center Street. Parking rates vary.

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Discover more about Berkeley Historical Society & Museum

The Berkeley Historical Society & Museum is a treasure trove of local history, offering visitors a chance to delve into the captivating story of Berkeley, California. Established in 1978 during the city's Centennial Celebration, the society has been dedicated to researching, preserving, and sharing Berkeley's unique heritage. Located in the Veterans Memorial Building on Center Street, the museum features a diverse collection of artifacts, photographs, and documents that chronicle Berkeley's journey from its early days to its present-day status as a vibrant cultural and intellectual hub. Exhibits highlight significant events, influential figures, and the diverse communities that have shaped the city's identity. From its focus on Berkeley as a center of innovation to the exploration of the 1960s and 70s, the museum's displays offer insights into the city's dynamic past. The Berkeley Historical Society & Museum also hosts temporary exhibitions and events, ensuring a unique experience with each visit. The museum's collections include photographs, materials, and memorabilia related to Berkeley. The society also conducts oral histories to preserve the stories of Berkeley residents. The Berkeley Historical Society & Museum is staffed entirely by volunteers. In 2022, the organization began unofficially adding "and Museum" to its name to emphasize its role as a museum. The society hopes to move to a larger facility in the Maudelle Shirek Building (the former City Hall) by 2028.

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