Step into the past and discover the stories and people that built our town. Located on a 3-acre site of the Angels Mine, the museum dedicates collections to inspire understanding of the gold country history of Angels Camp and the Mother Lode region. We create opportunities for learning, discovery and bring to life the extraordinary stories of our country’s past. Home to one of the largest collecti
ons of wagons and carriages in the west coast, visitors can stroll through the beautifully landscaped historical park to explore extensive indoor and outdoor exhibits that include a doctor's office and the history of Mark Twain's short story of "The Celebrated Jumping Frog of Calaveras County" and the ensuing Jumping Frog Jubilee. Continuing through the museum, visitors can also view two steam traction engines and exhibits highlighting mining equipment such as an overshot water-wheel in its original location, a hydraulic monitor, drills, ore cars, and even a working model of a famous stamp mill. Bring your lunch and enjoy a picnic under native oak trees of China Gulch where the '49ers prospected for gold. Make sure to check out the Altaville Schoolhouse - one of the oldest and best preserved little red schoolhouses in the state, and the historical Sam Choy mercantile that tells the story of Chinese culture in downtown Angels Camp. Stop by the gift shop for one-of-a-kind souvenirs including a copy of the story that launched Mark Twain's literary career 'The Celebrated Jumping Frog of Calaveras County.'