SNELLING COURTHOUSE MUSEUM
1857
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Welcome
Come and explore our history
About the Museum
In 1855 Merced County was carved out of the sprawling Mariposa County. The town of Snelling was laid out and established as the county seat in 1856. In 1857 the courthouse was built at the cost of $13,000. Although the county seat moved to Merced in the early 1870's the Snelling courthouse remained in use for court proceedings until the mid 1970's.
Realizing that without extensive restoration this important historical building would be lost, County Supervisor Kelsey asked the Merced County Public Works Department to do a structural evaluation in 2002. They determined that it would cost approximately $750,000 to restore the building so it could eventually be opened to the public as a museum.
Partnering with the county and using private donations and grants, the local citizens volunteered their time and energy to carry out the restoration.
Currently the museum is open by appointment and for special events.
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Beginning October 13, 2024 the museum will be open for visitors every second Sunday of the month from 1:00 pm to 3:00 pm
For more information or to make an appointment for a free tour call
Roberta Gray: 209-563-6507
or
Lisa Bauer Oberg: 209-756-1032
Dorenda Swinney: 209-500-9604
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