California Historical Society permanently closed, transfers collections to Stanford University

(KTLA) –Following longstanding financial challenges, the California Historical Society has closed and transferred its collection to Stanford University.

The private nonprofit organization was founded in 1871 and was designated the state’s official and historical society in 1979. It was one of California’s oldest historical organizations; however, unlike other state historical societies, CHS leadership said it received no regular state funding despite ongoing efforts.

The organization, headquartered in San Francisco, was home to over 600,000 items spanning the history of California and the West since the 18th century. Collections included original material from significant events such as the Gold Rush, statehood, and the 1906 San Francisco Earthquake and Fire.

The collection will now be known as the California Historical Society Collection at Stanford and will continue to be accessible to the public and academics.