Welcome!
Thank you for visiting the Gilroy Historical Society's web site. This is where to find out what's going on right here right now, as well as what happened around here in times past. You can learn about the Society and find out how to get involved. See our calendar for tours, special events, and museum hours, or visit our online store for merchandise from the Gilroy Museum.
We have a great collection of historic videos, and we're always adding new photo albums too... be sure to check them out!!
If you have any questions or comments please contact us, we'd love to hear from you!
Urgent: Regarding Wheeler Auditorium
Dear Society Members and Friends,
As you may be aware, the Gilroy Civic Center Master Plan and draft Environmental Impact Report (EIR) are recommending the demolition of Wheeler Auditorium, a building long treasured by the citizens of Gilroy and on the city’s list of Historic Resources. That list shows the architecture style as Moderne (also known as Art Deco) and describes its impact as “monumental.” We believe it is noteworthy and, while the interior admittedly needs renovation, the exterior is definitely worth preserving. It could still continue as a “Community Facility” and recreation center.
We find it ironic that the Gilroy Historical Society was formed 60 years ago this year after citizens felt a need to “Save Old City Hall.” We are in a position now to “Save Wheeler Auditorium.”
If you agree that we've lost too many historic properties and that the Auditorium should be saved, join us in letting City Project Manager (Ryan.Osenton@cityofgilroy.org) and the Mayor and City Council members know by the review period due date of Friday, March 27th. You can read the whole Master plan on the City website under Civic Center Master Plan.
The choice is yours, of course. But your comments will help!
About the Society
Our mission is to bring together people who are interested in the history of Gilroy and the surrounding area. We welcome you to learn about the society, join us, or contribute.
Visit the Museum
195 Fifth Street, Gilroy, CA 95020
Tuesdays & Thursdays, 10:00-4:00
First and Second Saturday of each month, 10:00-2:00
(408) 846-0446
Calendar
See our complete calendar of upcoming events, or download our 2026 Walking Tour Schedule (first Saturday of the month, 10am-noon).
Read about our Founding Father:
Our sesquicentennial edition of John Gilroy's biography is an 85 page thoroughly researched book, originally a Master’s thesis. Society Member Phill Laursen painstakingly digitized the typewritten text and added maps, photos and appropriate sketches of the era. Lisa Wieby at The Printing Spot added the finishing touches and voila! It truly is an outstanding work and will make 1814-1869 come alive for you.
Available in our Online Store.
