Past Exhibits

Created by the Smithsonian Asian Pacific American Center and the Smithsonian Institution Traveling Exhibition Service (SITES), this exhibition celebrates how Asian Pacific Americans have shaped and been shaped by the course of this nation’s history.

This exhibit explores Eichler Homes, and Joseph Eichler’s dream of affordable contemporary homes, which he built from 1949 to 1974. Through photos, mid-century modern furnishings, and memorabilia, the story of an era filled with optimism and prosperity will shine a light on the structural building blocks that make Eichler living so appealing.

The exhibit explores traditional California Indian food sources, their extensive and sophisticated system of environmental knowledge underlying use of food resources, the importance and continuing use of native foods in contemporary California Indian communities and examines contemporary issues of food localization, sustainability, nutrition and environmental health through an alternative, older lens.

In recognition of his 100th year, the Los Altos History Museum is honoring long-time Los Altos resident Paul Hau, regarded as one of the most influential Chinese artists.

Hau Beiren (also known as Paul Hau and Pei-Jen Hau), an internationally renown painter, and his wife, Mary Hau, have lived in Los Altos since 1956. His work has been exhibited and collected in the U.S. and abroad. Mary Hau has been his partner and best supporter in life and work during their 70+ years together.

This original exhibit explores our diverse communities over time, drawing on the Los Altos History Museum’s Oral History Collection. These narratives allow us to reflect on our present and future, see how we connect, and ask ourselves how we can contribute to the change we want to see in our community.

This original exhibit is a multicultural look at traditions and rituals of how we remember and honor our loved ones who have passed on.