Museum of Redlands to open Oct. 24 after 26-year effort

REDLANDS, Calif. — After more than a quarter-century of planning, fundraising and construction, the Museum of Redlands will open its doors to the public Saturday, Oct. 24.

A ribbon-cutting ceremony will begin at 10 a.m. at the museum, 1 N. Center St., inside the renovated and expanded former Redlands Daily Facts building. Admission to the museum will be free.

The opening marks the culmination of an effort that began in 2000 as a partnership between the Redlands Historical Museum Association and the city, through the A.K. Smiley Public Library.

After considering several potential locations, the association purchased the former newspaper building in 2014 with support from philanthropist Clara Mae Clem. The organization ultimately raised $28 million from donors for the project, according to the city.

Groundbreaking took place in 2021, with construction completed in phases. The association transferred the property to the city in 2025, and the museum will be administered by A.K. Smiley Public Library.

“Redlands people have a fierce sense of civic pride, and this museum is a testament to that,” RHMA President Charlotte Burgess said in a statement. She said 80% of the building was independently funded by donors.

Inside the museum

The museum will open with 13 exhibits developed by a curatorial team led by Nathan Gonzales and Maria Carrillo Colato, featuring historical artifacts, artwork and interactive displays.

Visitors will enter through an area featuring an interactive timeline of Redlands history and a rotating portrait display called “I am Redlands,” which will invite residents to contribute their own family photographs.

“Our South Gallery will focus on the importance of the citrus industry, which was
vital to the economic development and culture of our community,” said curator
Gonzales.

Other exhibits will explore Redlands’ citrus industry, Chinatown, Fire Department and connections to film, along with the watercolor art of Phil Dike. An interactive flight simulator will allow visitors to virtually fly over Redlands landmarks and attempt to land at Redlands Municipal Airport.

The grand opening will feature the Redlands Fourth of July Band and remarks from local dignitaries. Visitors will receive a commemorative pin and postcard featuring a watercolor of the museum by artist Joseph Stoddard.

Following the opening, the Museum of Redlands will be open from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Wednesdays through Sundays. Admission is free.