The Museum traces its roots back to 1913 when Dr. Cephas Bard, a Civil War physician, began collecting artifacts from local residents in exchange for medical care. His passion for preserving Ventura County’s heritage led to the foundation of what would become one of California’s most respected regional museums. Today, the museum houses more than 30,000 artifacts, over 1,000 works of fine art, and historical treasures that tell the unique story of Ventura County. Among its most notable features is the George Stuart Historical Figures® Collection—over 200 intricately crafted miniature figures representing historical icons with stunning lifelike detail.
The Museum offers rotating exhibitions that explore a wide range of themes, from indigenous Chumash culture and early California history to modern art and social movements. New exhibitions open every few months, ensuring there is always something fresh and engaging for visitors to discover. Permanent and temporary exhibitions highlight Ventura County's diverse communities, natural environment, agriculture, and contributions to California’s development. Notable past exhibitions include “Crossing Borders: Stories of Migration” and “Beatrice Wood: Living in the Timeless.”
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Museum of Ventura County
Museums