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Jehning Lock Museum: A Hidden Gem of Security History

Explore a world of security history at the Jehning Lock Museum in Mountain View, home to a fascinating collection of antique locks and keys.

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The Jehning Lock Museum in Mountain View, California, houses an extensive collection of antique locks, keys, and locksmithing tools. Located in the historic Ames Building, the museum showcases the evolution of security technology, with nearly 1,000 locks and 5,000 keys from around the world.

A brief summary to Jehning Lock Museum

  • 175 Castro St, Mountain View, Old Mountain View, California, 94041, US

Local tips

  • Check the museum's operating hours before visiting, as they are limited and subject to change.
  • The museum is located in the historic Ames Building, a notable landmark on Castro Street.
  • Admission is free, making it an affordable and educational outing.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    The Jehning Lock Museum is located on Castro Street in downtown Mountain View, easily accessible on foot from many nearby points. From the Mountain View Transit Center (Caltrain and VTA Light Rail), walk south on Castro Street for about half a mile. The museum will be on your left at 175 Castro Street.

  • Public Transport

    The Mountain View Transit Center is served by Caltrain, VTA Light Rail, and multiple bus lines. From the transit center, the museum is a half-mile walk south on Castro Street. Alternatively, you can take the free Mountain View Community Shuttle, which has stops throughout downtown. Check the shuttle schedule for the nearest stop to the museum. Single VTA fares are around $2.50.

  • Ride-Sharing

    Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are readily available in Mountain View. A short ride from the Mountain View Transit Center or other locations in the city center to the museum typically costs between $8 and $15, depending on demand and traffic.

  • Parking

    Street parking is available on Castro Street and the surrounding areas, but it can be limited, especially during peak hours. There are also several public parking lots and garages within walking distance of the museum. Parking rates in downtown Mountain View typically range from $1 to $3 per hour.

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Discover more about Jehning Lock Museum

Tucked away in the heart of Mountain View, California, the Jehning Lock Museum offers a unique glimpse into the history and craftsmanship of locks and security. Housed within the Ames Building, which dates back to 1903 and is considered the second-oldest building on Castro Street, the museum boasts a collection of nearly 1,000 locks and 5,000 keys from various corners of the globe. The museum's exhibits showcase the evolution of locks, from early wooden pin-tumbler systems used in ancient Egypt to the intricate metal mechanisms developed during the Roman era and the Industrial Revolution. Visitors can explore a diverse array of antique padlocks, warded locks, lever tumbler locks, and early examples of combination and time locks. The collection also includes over 20 safes and hundreds of keyrings, along with an assortment of locksmithing tools and paraphernalia. The displays not only highlight the ingenuity of lock makers throughout history but also underscore the enduring human desire to safeguard possessions. The museum provides insight into the cultural and historical significance of security, illustrating how locks have been symbols of wealth, power, and peace of mind across different societies. Whether you're a history buff, a technology enthusiast, or simply curious about the intricate world of locks and keys, the Jehning Lock Museum offers an engaging and educational experience.

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