What is the Crockett Historical Society?
The Crockett Historical Society is an all-volunteer nonprofit organization dedicated to the preservation and appreciation of the history of the town of Crockett and its associated communities of Valona, Tormey, Vallejo Junction, and Eckley. We fulfill this purpose by providing educational and research opportunities; by collecting relevant historic photographs, documents, artifacts and cultural objects; by maintaining a museum to display and protect these items; by advocating the preservation of historic resources in the community; by providing a gathering place for important events within the community; and by encouraging others to participate and help further these aims.
The Society was initially organized in the late 1970’s by Crockett residents interested in preserving the history of the town, and officially incorporated in time for the 100th anniversary of the founding of Crockett. The first board arranged with C&H Sugar Refinery to have the use of the former Southern Pacific railroad depot as the museum site. The building had been unused since 1969 and needed cleaning, repairs and a paint job inside and out! Volunteers worked hard to accomplish these tasks, accepted donations of historic artifacts, created new and adapted old displays, and opened for business in September of 1981.
Visitors to the Crockett Museum are often charmed by the unique nature of the displays; many exhibits remain from the original ones created almost 35 years ago. The town of Crockett has been heavily influenced by C&H’s presence since 1906, and that influence is felt in the display of the evolution of sugar products and the sugar industry. Citizens of Crockett have enjoyed a proud connection with their local schools, and trophies and photos abound. Other exhibits share information about the history of the town/area, businesses, churches, the Carquinez Bridge(s), fraternities/social clubs, and military service members. One of the more popular artifacts in the Museum is known as “Joey’s Fish,” an enormous 468 lb. taxidermied sturgeon (caught on a rod and reel), the likes of which will never be caught again! A complete collection of the Cubelet Press (the house organ of C&H from 1936-1992) is available for research, as well as Crockett Signal and Crockett American from 1908 until 1976 and Crockett Signal magazine 1989 to present day.
The Crockett Museum is open each Wednesday and Saturday from 10am to 3pm. Visitors are always admitted for free and docents are available for questions. For more information on arranging tours or planning your visit, call (510)787-2178.
If you are interested in sharing a talent, spending some time among artifacts, learning about the history of your town, or welcoming visitors, please call or stop by during open hours!
Support the Historical Society with your Membership Dues:
Individual Membership: $10
Family Membership $15
Life Membership $125