History San Jose

History San José is the largest regional history museum in Northern California and manages 31 historic structures at two locations: History Park and the Peralta Adobe—Fallon House Historic Sites. Our mission is to preserve and celebrate Santa Clara Valley’s dynamic history by: creating exhibitions featuring our collections; engaging the community in fun, hands-on programs and events; and, offering award-winning school programs—that align with and support the Common Core State Standards and new College, Career, and Civic Life (C3) Framework for Social Studies—for over 20,000 students and their teachers each year.

History Park, in Kelley Park, is a 14-acre town-like assemblage of 32 original and reconstructed homes, businesses, and landmarks highlighting the culture and history of San José and Santa Clara Valley. History Park is also home to 19 affiliate and community partner organizations who each provide exhibits and programming that showcase their constituencies and contributions to the Valley.

The Peralta Adobe-Fallon House Historic Site is located in historic San Pedro Square. The Gonzales-Peralta Adobe, built in 1797, is San José’s oldest surviving address, and is the only structure remaining from El Pueblo de San José de Guadalupe. Across the street, is the 1850s’ Thomas and Carmel Fallon House, one of the earliest Victorian era homes built in the city.

More than 140,000 visitors attend exhibits and events at these sites each year.