History of Tehama County Museum

In 1980 the Tehama County Museum foundation was created by a group of local citizens to preserve and exhibit artifacts that represent the cultural heritage of Tehama County. 

For years a highway sign on Highway 99E directed travelers to the First Tehama County Court House, which was to the Masonic building.

In 1962 when the Masons were celebrating their 100th Anniversary, they arranged to have Superior Court Judge Curtiss Wetter hold court there for one session. However, the act did not  succeed in saving the California Historical Landmark designation for the building. In 1980 the building was designated as a National Historic Site.