young hands planting a seedling

Volunteer

V.E.S.T

The Volunteer Education and Service Team (V.E.S.T.) is a group of volunteers who support the activities of the Central Sierra Historical Society. From working in the Museum as a docent or in customer service to scooping ice cream, creating a display, helping with a woodworking project, or planning a dinner fundraiser, the opportunities are limitless.

Join us for a fun event, learn about the history of the Central Sierra, and contribute to your community. We’d love to have you.

V.E.S.T. Application

V.E.S.T. meets on the second Friday of the month at 10:00 AM at the Museum from April through November.

sunlight shining down on trees in the sierra

Our History

Founded in 1991, but its roots date back to the early 1980’s, when a group of individuals in the Central Sierra recognized the need for an organized effort to preserve the fast- disappearing history of the area.

In addition to the museum building, CSHS is actively preserving local historical treasures, such as a 1902 Dolbeer Steam Donkey, a 1912 caboose from the SJ&E Railroad, and a 1920 Mack Truck, as well as collecting the oral histories of area pioneers. The Sierra Voices series of lectures, field trips, and social events have helped to build educational programs. There is a demonstration-only powerhouse on the grounds that was dedicated in 2013. This is the only running powerhouse in a museum setting anywhere in the world. The gift shop at the museum provides adults’ and children’s books on California history, Native American culture, pioneer lives, natural history, wildlife, environmental issues facing the West, and recreational activities in the Sierra.