Sierra Historic Sites Association Inc.

The Sierra Historic Sites Association Inc. is a non-profit educational organization dedicated to preserving and showcasing the historical heritage of the Central Sierra foothills. Its primary mission involves the acquisition, preservation, and display of artifacts, art objects, and other items of historical significance from the region.

History and Operations

The association operates the Fresno Flats Museum complex in Oakhurst, California, which features two restored homes from the 1870s. This museum complex is surrounded by a historic park that includes several pioneer homes, two one-room schoolhouses, two jails, a blacksmith shop, a print shop, and a portion of the historic lumber flume, offering visitors a glimpse into life in the late 1800s.

Educational Programs

Sierra Historic Sites Association provides educational programs aimed at promoting local history. These include hands-on activities such as Mountain Heritage Days, Pioneer Camp, and a Student Docent Program, which engage students and the community in learning about the area's past.

Collections and Resources

The organization maintains the Fresno Flats Historical Research Library, which houses a comprehensive collection of historical materials. These include old Madera County court documents, local mining claim records, early Sierra National Forest papers, a complete and indexed file of the Sierra Star newspaper, oral history recordings from pioneer families, and photographs documenting early-day lumbering activities by Harry Pidgeon. The library also contains records of past and present Yosemite Valley Master Plans.

Community Engagement

The association encourages community participation through membership, which offers benefits like free guided tours and shop discounts. The organization also welcomes volunteers and donations to support its educational programs, events, and park maintenance. Additionally, it operates a vacation rental, the Silver Knob Cabin, which is an authentic 1880s log cabin. Proceeds from the cabin help fund the museum and park activities.

Conservation Efforts

As part of the California Revealed initiative, the Sierra Historic Sites Association collaborates with state libraries to digitize and preserve local historical materials, making them accessible online. This effort supports the broader goal of documenting California's rich history.