History San Jose

History San José is one of the largest regional history museums in Northern California
and manages three locations: History Park, the Gonzales/Peralta Adobe—Fallon House
Historic Site and the Collection/Archives Center. History San José anchors the region’s
diverse cultural history by offering compelling experiences—exhibitions, festivals,
educational programs, and academic research—for audiences to discover the dynamic
history of San Jose and the Santa Clara Valley. Our vision is to enhance San Jose’s and
Santa Clara County regional and global recognition, ensuring the rich, diverse history of
San Jose is accessible and engaging for all. Locally, we strive to be a key engine in
building a more connected, active, and vibrant community where everyone feels like a
part of the ongoing story of San Jose and Santa Clara County. History San José
accomplishes this mission/vision by creating exhibitions featuring our collections;
engaging the community in fun, hands-on festivals and events; and, offering 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 12,000
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 12 affiliate and
community partner organizations who each provide exhibits and programming that
showcase their constituencies and contributions to the Valley.

The Gonzales/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.