VolunteerMatch

The Golden State Museum explores the California experience. We are a unique educational resource dedicated to encouraging people of all ages and backgrounds to explore what California is today and to consider the possiblities of its future. The Museum creates opportunities for adults and children to consider what it means to be a Californian. Exhibitions and programs build on the holdings of the Ca State Archives and are enriched by the resources of our partners in the public and private sector. With special attention to children, their parents and teachers, and newcomers to California, the Golden State Museum seeks to: instill a respect for diversity; connect Californians to a shared heritage; engage young people in the definition of our collective future; encourage involvement in the democratic process; and support educators with new resources and strategies for the study of California.

Interactive exhibits highlighting California's history, geography and political process are featured in the People, Place, Promise and Politics galleries of the Golden State Museum. State-of-the-art technology, including multimedia productions and computer generated imagery, blends beautifully with authentic documents and historic artifacts. In the People gallery, visitors can hop aboard a bus to hear stories of immigrants and their journey to California. A 12-foot computerized floor map in the Place gallery projects 3-D images of California's landscape, geography, water, settlement patterns, and transportation systems. In the Promise gallery, a replica of Sacramento's Alhambra Theatre hosts a montage of film clips that showcases the colorful spirit of the "California Dream." Housed in the Politics gallery is a "Checks and Balance" computer game that invites visitors to test their knowledge of the legislative process. Located in the Museum's courtyard is a monumental public art piece, "Constitution Wall". This six story ever-changing exhibit reflects the heart, soul and beauty of California. A unique California specialty gift shop includes educational toys and games, handmade ceramics and glass, and a treasure of California books.