For more than 70 years, this organization has brought together people like you to preserve and promote Sacramento's golden history. As the home of the first transcontinental railroad, the Pony Express, the first transcontinental telegraph, and the center of the Gold Rush, the Sacramento region has a treasure trove of history to appreciate and discover.
The mission of the Sacramento Historical Society is to preserve and promote the historical heritage of the Sacramento region; to educate and enlighten the public with regard to the importance of Sacramento's history and to promote a greater awareness of, and to act as a resource for, inquiries regarding Sacramento regional history.
Your support through donations helps us present dynamic educational programs, create scholarship opportunities for college students, and elevate Sacramento's history on a national level. Thank you!
The mission of the Sacramento Historical Society is to preserve and promote the historical heritage of the Sacramento region; to educate and enlighten the public with regard to the importance of Sacramento's history and to promote a greater awareness of, and to act as a resource for, inquiries regarding Sacramento regional history.
The Sacramento Historical Society is supported by a dedicated Board of 29 members and a growing membership of approximately 200 individuals who share a passion for preserving and promoting Sacramento’s rich and diverse history. Our goal is to engage a broad and inclusive community of history enthusiasts while strengthening our ability to serve the public through educational programs and publications.
Two of our primary areas of focus are our monthly public programs and our publications. Each month, we host engaging programs featuring expert speakers who highlight the people, events, and stories that have shaped the Sacramento region. In addition, SHS produces and preserves its renowned Golden Notes and History Journals—publications that feature rare documents, photographs, ephemera, and scholarly articles, some dating back to 1853. Many of these materials are rarely seen and provide unique insight into Sacramento’s vibrant and evolving history.
As we continue to grow, we aim to expand our program audience, increase awareness of local history through our publications, and support the production of new historical works that make Sacramento’s past more accessible to the public.
Like many nonprofit organizations, we rely on community support to achieve these goals. Donations help fund general operating costs, monthly educational programs, publications, scholarships, and special projects, including the development of a 7-foot sculpture honoring the life and legacy of Nathaniel Colley, Sacramento’s first practicing Black attorney. Contributions also help us welcome new volunteers who are passionate about history and eager to support our mission.
With your support, the Sacramento Historical Society can continue to preserve, share, and celebrate the stories that define our region—for the Sacramento community and for generations to come.
We believe in honoring, respecting, and showcasing the diverse populations that make up the region we serve. We are against discrimination of any kind and strive to make a positive difference in our community by working with other organizations to further promote the ideals of equity and inclusion for all, regardless of any differences.
Organization name
Sacramento Historical Society
other names
SHS
1953
Mission Category
Arts, Culture & Humanities
Operating Budget
$0-$50,000
Organization Need
Funding: Program, Board Members, Other, Volunteers, In-Kind Donations
Local Counties Served
Sacramento, El Dorado, Placer, Yolo
Address
1081 38th StreetOther
Columbus Hall 5961 Newman CtSacramento, CA, US
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