Researchers Please Note: There is a $5 day use fee for use of the Genealogy Room and Research Library. Members and Students with proof of current registration may always access research materials free of charge.
A resource for researchers
For over half a century the Humboldt County Historical Society has been a repository for local historic materials. Collections that are unique to our archive include hundreds of maps, over 65,000 photographs, historic business records and criminal ledgers. Original documents and research materials are available to the public through our research center.
Built by the public
We are entirely supported by memberships and financial donations. Originally founded by 112 community members who were motivated to preserve historical materials for future generations, our membership is now over two thousand. Sustaining support from our members ensures that valuable local resources remain accessible to the public and protected for future generations. Community members may also support our organization and get involved by joining our board of directors.
Mission
Our purpose is to further an understanding and appreciation of all peoples, places, events, and activities of Humboldt County and related areas. Toward this end, we focus on acquiring, preserving, interpreting, creating, and sharing historical information, and by educating and assisting others to do the same. To further these goals, the Humboldt County Historical Society publishes an outstanding quarterly magazine, the Humboldt Historian; maintains a thorough reference library; prints historical books; records and transcribes oral histories of knowledgeable residents; archives valuable collections, and makes the information in those collections available to researchers.
humboldt County: A briefest of histories
The research center is handicapped accessible through a ramp on the side of the house. For security reasons, we cannot leave that door unlocked. Please call ahead of time, or use your cell to notify us that you have arrived and we’ll be right there to let you in!
The Humboldt County Historical Society is located at the former home of the late Helen Wells Barnum. Built by her maternal grandparents, Dr. and Mrs. Reuben Gross in 1902, the beautiful two-story Colonial Revival style house was donated to the Society in 1993 through Helen Barnum's estate.
☎ CONTACT
(707) 445-4342
info@humboldthistory.org
➤ LOCATION
703 8th Street
Eureka, California 95501
➤ HOURS
1/4/2022: Due to a sharp increase in covid infections, we are closed to the public until further notice. Please email research@humboldthistory.org if you have research questions. All other questions may be directed to (707) 445-4342. Pleave a message; we will check them regularly.
See our new blog: History Nuggets! Historical vignettes written by Dr. Pamela Service, to inform and pique your interest in our county’s history!
Follow us
facebook.com/humboldthistory