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Permanent Exhibits

The permanent exhibits of the Museum explore the world of petroleum technology, science, and history in California. In W. M. Keck, Sr. Hall, the workings and history of the oil and gas are explained through video programs, interactive models, computer displays, artifacts, photographs, and a variety of historical memorabilia.

The Rig Building contains an authentic 1890s drilling rig that has been restored to working order. This cast-iron and wooden-timber drilling rig was salvaged from the local oilfields during the 1940s.

The Museum’s Second Story has been carefully restored to reflect the original appearance of Union Oil Company's 1890 corporate headquarters. It is considered one of the finest commercial building restorations in California of the late Victorian era. The Second Story also contains a 1930s-era Apartment that has been re-created the residential occupation of the building during the Great Depression and WWII years.

The 1890 Museum Building has been designated a National Register Historic Site for its exceptional Victorian-Queen Anne architecture and its historical importance as the original headquarters of one of the great California oil companies, Union Oil Company of California.

 
Second Floor Exhibits