A Hidden Gem: Irvine Historical Society

There’s a hidden gem in town that too few residents know about. It’s the Irvine Historical Society.

Founded in 1976, the Society’s mission is to preserve, research, and promote the heritage of the original Irvine Ranch. The Irvine Historical Museum, which opened in 1980, is operated by the Society. The museum is housed in the oldest standing structure within the boundaries of the Ranch.

The museum (located at 5 San Joaquin) is open Sundays and Tuesdays from 1pm to 4pm.

In addition to the museum, the Society offers tours of Old Town on the second Sunday of each month. The tour begins at noon in the lobby of the La Quinta Inn on Sand Canyon (right off the 5 Freeway) and usually lasts about an hour.

The Society has also introduced a new series, “Let’s Talk History,” that takes place on the fourth Sunday of each month from 3pm until 4:30pm. There’s a different topic discussed every month.