About The Society

 
Old Gilroy City Hall (1905)

History: It all started when...

The Gilroy Historical Society was formed in 1966 when the Old City Hall (built in 1905) was threatened with destruction. Community members C.N. Bolfing, Robert R. Head, Kendall Pine, George W. White, Armand White, George Porcella, and Howard F. Smith came together to preserve the historic building.

Our Mission

The purpose of the Society is to bring together people interested in the history of Gilroy and the surrounding area. Understanding the history of our community is basic to our democratic way of life. It provides a view of the development of our state and nation and Gilroy's place in our rich American heritage.

Goals of the Society

  • Act as a support group for the city-owned Gilroy Museum.

  • Encourage donations of local historic materials of all types to the museum.

  • Purchase equipment or historic materials or accept donations to the museum.

  • Act as docents or researchers at the museum.

  • Lead walking tours to local historic sites.

  • Publish a newsletter, disseminate historical information, and stimulate interest in Gilroy's past by contributing articles to news sources.

  • Mark historic buildings, sites, trails.

  • Give scholarships to students of history.

  • Present awards to groups or individuals who have contributed to a better understanding of local history.

  • Preserve historic materials for donation to the museum.

  • Support and encourage preservation of buildings and sites of historic importance.

  • Provide programs for members and the public to increase awareness and understanding of history.