128 years of keeping
La Habra's story.

Mission & history

Founded in 1898, the La Habra Historical Society* has worked to preserve and share the history of La Habra for more than a century. Today, the Society owns and operates the La Habra Historical Museum, continuing a long tradition of preserving the stories of our city and the people who have called it home.

The Museum grew from the vision and dedication of members of La Habra's community, including local families such as the Sansinena, Smith, Launer, Steele, Ridgway, Proud, and Jenson families. Through contributions of time, work, artifacts, and financial support, members of the community helped make the Museum a reality.

Our mission is to collect, preserve, interpret, and share La Habra's history in ways that are accessible, engaging, and relevant to the community we serve. Our collection of historical photographs, documents, maps, artifacts, and firsthand accounts helps tell the story of La Habra across the many eras of its development, from the days of the missions through its agricultural and citrus history, shaped by the people and families whose labor helped it thrive, to the discovery of oil, the formation and growth of the city, and the community La Habra has become today.

We believe local history is more than a collection of objects and dates. It lives in family photographs, personal memories, familiar places, and stories passed from one generation to the next. Through exhibits, educational programs, and the preservation of our shared history, we seek to connect La Habra's past with its present and inspire future generations to understand and appreciate our city's heritage.

Whether you are a lifelong resident, a former local, a researcher, or simply curious about La Habra, we invite you to explore, remember, and help us preserve our city's story.