LOS ALTOS, CA (May 24, 2022) – While construction of its new Permanent Exhibition is underway, Los Altos History Museum invites the community to participate in this groundbreaking project with the launch of a public campaign. Funds raised will go toward the creation, and the ongoing updates and maintenance, of this immersive, technology-driven exhibition.
Slated to open in 2023, the Permanent Exhibition, titled “Making Connections: Stories from the Land,” incorporates immersive multimedia, interactive touchscreens and augmented reality for a unique educational experience.
Lead donors Nan and Chuck Geschke of Los Altos and Edward and Pamela Taft of Los Altos Hills kicked off the Permanent Exhibition Capital Campaign in a big way. “The Permanent Exhibition will be an exciting new way to explore history through technology,” said Nan and Ed.
“Los Altos is an incredibly special community and I love supporting the Museum and their mission,” said Anne Wojcicki who made a matching gift to help launch the public phase.
The Permanent Exhibition guides visitors on a journey through the natural landscape and the changes that occurred over time. From the creeks where the first inhabitants dwelled, to the valley that produced bountiful agriculture and global scientific discoveries; from the train that created the town, and diverse peoples who built the neighborhoods, to the rancheros that divided the hills; visitors will discover fascinating details about local history.
“The public campaign is an opportunity for the community to come together and support an important learning hub and gathering place for engaging discussions among all ages,” said Nan Geschke.
To raise awareness of the campaign and the Permanent Exhibition, the Museum is offering four family-friendly public programs that draw from the exhibition’s four sections (Hills, Valley, Town, Creeks) and highlighting stories tied to the land. The programs, held on Saturdays from 10am-3pm include:
- Rancho Day: Horsemanship in the Hills – May 28
- Apricot STEM Fair: A Tale of two Valleys – July 16
- Train Day: Making a Town – September 10
- Creek Fest: Playing with Water – October 22
At the programs, attendees will be able to see renderings of the new Permanent Exhibition and learn more about its themes.
Gifts made before December 1, 2022 are matched up to $75,000. To donate to the campaign, visit losaltoshistory.org/Connections.
Los Altos History Museum began in 1977 with the opening of the J. Gilbert Smith House historic farmhouse, built in 1905. In 2001, the Los Altos History Museum opened its modern building next door, which houses the Museum’s collections, permanent and changing exhibits, store and administrative offices. The Museum and its grounds are available for rent during evenings and weekends. Its collections are owned by the City of Los Altos and are managed by an independent nonprofit organization, whose staff and volunteers are responsible for all programs and operations.
The Museum is open Thursday through Sunday, from noon-4pm. Admission is free. Tours of the J. Gilbert Smith House are available during open hours. The outdoor agricultural exhibit, gardens and picnic area are accessible beyond Museum hours. For more information, visit: losaltoshistory.org, email hello@losaltoshistory.org, or phone 650.948.9427 x14.
Media Contact: Marketing@losaltoshistory.org
Los Altos History Museum: Elisabeth I. Ward, 650.948.9427 x10, eward@losaltoshistory.org
