Welcome to

The Friends of California Archives

The Breadth of History

Adds Richness and Context to Life

Discover the wealth of knowledge and experience of those who have gone before

The Time Travelers


History Makers

Follow Mrs. Johnson's class as they discover the remarkable women who paved the way for Equal Rights in California.

Archival Connections

Archival Institutions and Related Connections – Places You May Find Resources

California State Archives

The California State Archives serves a wide variety of researchers whose interests range from legislative intent and public policy to genealogy and railroad history in California

California Constitution

California's first constitution was approved in 1849 and was published in both English and Spanish. Full text and digital images of the English version and images of the Spanish version are available

California Museum

The California Museum — home of the California Hall of Fame — engages, educates and enlightens people about California’s rich history, its diversity and its unique influence on the world of ideas, innovation, art and culture.

The History Makers

The Digital Repository for the Black Experience

Acadamy Museum

The Academy Museum of Motion Pictures is the largest museum in the United States devoted to the arts, sciences, and artists of moviemaking.

Board of Directors
Our team of dedicated volunteer board members bring you our Golden State's rich history from many institutions. Learn their story here.
reserve, pages, read-7765438.jpg
Expand Your Horizons!

Suggested Reading

Click blue text below to view a sample of California's rich heritage

“All men are by nature free and independent, and have certain inalienable rights, among which are those of enjoying and defending life and liberty; acquiring, possessing, and protecting property; and pursuing and obtaining safety and happiness.”

 – California State Constitution, Article 1, Section 1

Interesting Fact:

California’s first Constitutional Convention met for thirty-seven days in Monterey, from September 1 to October 13, 1849.

 – 1849 California Constitution Fact Sheet