Visit Our Library & Museums
Open 1pm – 4pm, Monday – Saturday
The archive of the Nevada County Historical Society. Established in 1973, the Searls Historical Library has become one of the premier libraries of materials on the area’s history… more
Open 10am – 4pm, Saturdays and Sundays
(May 1st – October 31st or by appointment)
Located in Nevada City, California, the Nevada County Narrow Gauge Railroad Museum is dedicated to the preservation of local transportation history and artifacts from the narrow gauge railroad era… more
Open 1pm – 4pm, Wednesday – Sunday
(May 1st – October 31st or by appointment)
Completed in the Spring of 1861, the Firehouse No. 1 Museum was home to Nevada Hose Company No.1 from 1861 to 1938. During those nearly 80 years, horse -drawn fire wagons and handcarts… more
Open 12pm – 4pm, Wednesday – Sunday
(May 1st – October 31st or by appointment)
Intimately connected with the many aspects of gold mining in Nevada County, California, the North Star Mining Museum includes exhibits of mining artifacts, pelton wheels, a working Stamp Mill and… more
After a winter closure when volunteers revamp displays, the museum will reopen on April 2, 2025.
The Museum is available to view by appointment.
The buildings of Mount St. Mary’s Convent and Orphanage are of national, state, and local importance. Illustrating a 100-year history from the 1860’s to the 1960’s, they can provide insight into women’s changing roles and the lives of children and families in crisis. more