LOS ALTOS, CA (Jan 6, 2026) – Los Altos History Museum will host an Oral History Workshop led by Guneeta Singh Bhalla, Executive Director of The 1947 Partition Archive. Held on Wednesday, January 21, 2026, from 5:30 – 7:00 pm, the workshop will guide participants through the process of recording oral history interviews within families and communities to preserve personal memories for future generations.
Drawing on The 1947 Partition Archive’s work preserving eyewitness accounts of the Partition of British India, the workshop will highlight best practices for ethical storytelling and interview etiquette; audio-visual recording techniques; building a compelling story; developing an effective questionnaire; and the overall philosophy of oral history interviewing. Attendees will receive a training packet and the opportunity to practice documentation techniques using available recording equipment. Time permitting, mock interviews will be conducted.
Following the workshop, participants who are interested may be matched with local Partition-era (1940s) witnesses who are waiting to have their stories recorded.
“Recording an oral history allows people to discover fascinating details about their own families through a structured conversation—often uncovering stories they never thought to ask about,” said Bhalla. “It’s a deeply fulfilling way to connect with family members and preserve their experiences.”
The program is held in support of the Museum’s upcoming exhibition, “10,000 Memories: Partition, Independence, and WWII in South Asia,” opening January 29, 2026.
Cost of attending the workshop is $15 per person and free for Museum members. Reservations are required and may be made at losaltoshistory.org/OHworkshop.
Los Altos History Museum began in 1977 with the opening of the historic J. Gilbert Smith House, built in 1905 on 14+ acres of apricot orchards planted by Mr. Smith. In 2001, Los Altos History Museum opened the 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: Diane Holcomb, 650.948.9427 x14, dholcomb@losaltoshistory.org
