Strathearn Historical Park is truly a hidden gem. We expected a quick visit and ended up staying for three hours, enjoying every single bit of it. Paul was an outstanding tour guide--knowledgeable, engaging, and clearly passionate about the history, which made the experience come alive. You can really feel the care and effort that goes into preserving this place. Everyone involved in maintaining and sharing its history deserves a lot of credit. If you have even a slight interest in local history, this park is absolutely worth your time. read more

Really beautiful venue! I didn't even know this place existed and I had the honor of attending a reception here. The entire grounds are so well kept and make the perfect atmosphere! I wish I had taken more time to look around! They had really cool exhibits and signage to look at! read more

Very limited set up times for vendors, very inefficient rules for loading and unloading. Rude employees that don't introduce themselves but just tell you want to do and call you names and ridicule you. Absolutely no communication other than rules afterwards when it's too late to follow them. I had to make extra trips which they didn't know about when she criticized my "organization". She had no clue how hard I worked for that wedding couple and what they asked me to bring. Horrible and unprofessional- sad attitude and weak management. Otherwise a wonderful facility with great history. Just awful employees with no integrity. read more

Sat in on Nancy Kidd's Chumash presentation and learned a lot! Really enjoyed talking with her (and Steve) afterwards! A wealth of knowledge that the city is lucky to be able to provide read more

I came here for a wedding and it was beautiful! Such a cool historical park that I would love to take my daughter during the day. The ceremony was outside and the reception was in a beautiful barn. It was truly magical and such a beautiful night. The staff was great, there is lots of parking and at night all the lights go on and it's perfect. If you are looking for a wedding venue look no further. This is a perfect place to come. read more

Strathearn Historical Park & Museum - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Simi Valley, California

The Pacific and American tectonic plates have been snuggling longer than human imagination. The lagoons, seabeds and marches of past eons are the moutians hills and dirt of Southern California. Simi Valley is where rhe Los Angeles River begins. Our ancient cousins arrived in this region thousands of years ago. The people called Chumash ran Wall Street West. Their mint was the Channel Islands, their coin Pismo Clams worked into beads ans abalone. Their currency traveled north to the Columbia River and east to the Plains. Sometimes. In 1683 giant canoes sailed over the horizon. The glint of Spanish steel seduced the Chumash. It was never the trade of equals. In 1795 Santiago Pico received the first Spanish Land Grant in Ventura and Santa Barbara Counties. Rancho de Simi. This site was his first headquarters. The names of the Scots-Irish arriving after the Bear Flag Republic establishment in 1846 are all over the postage stamp sized bit of Old California. My families arrived in Inyo and Los Angles Counties in 1933 anf 1937. My father hungered for a personal postage stamp. I came to Simi Valley in 1958. To a six year old Simi Valkey was a flat sea of golden grass with a road or two and scattered houses. "Don't you dare play in that mud! We going to look at this house." A "giant" mud puddle left by November rains, crossed by two by six lumber is heaven to a six yyear old. I came out of it muddy to my knees and in a lot of trouble. I got moved to Ventura County when I was 15. Some classmates were "founding families" of 19th and 20th century agriculture in the region. My sister cared for the checks and taxes of a family wuth members across the planet and farm, sand gravel and real estate interests insude the old Pico Spanish Land Grant. This quiet refuge amid the 21st century bustle of the region is a historicak Eden, preserving the memory and efgorts of those gone before. A great place for a potty break and a picnic. My cousin lives just east of here, my brother and his wife Dolores just east of her.The only member of the next generation lives with parents in Ventura. Of my 23 family members, one continues on to carry our little light forward. Enjoy your gift of life in beautiful places. Carry humankund forward. We were not men and women to match California's mountains. Those remembeted here were. You go forth and match your own mountains, inspired by the past. read more

Strathearn Historical Park & Museum - Entrance - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Simi Valley, California

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We were hired as the bounce house vendor for a wedding at this park. Such a stunning location for a wedding! It seems like you are having your event in a small town. I will definitely be recommending this location for any county or rustic style celebration. read more

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A very pleasant way to spend an hour wandering the park. There was no docent to guide a tour when we were there but there is an audio tour that covers 20 points of interest. We got the wifi access and password but it did seem patchy in places. The exhibits are probably of most interest to locals as they relate to local venues and include farming and small town trade exhibits and buildings from the end of the 19th century and early 20th century. Individuals referred to did not resonate for me but still interesting to consider those brave souls leaving from Chicago and arriving into such a rural environment. The museum maybe needs a little maintenance and my sense is that income is primarily gained from wedding and party events as the entry is free, but with a donation jar in the visitor center. I hope it grows and propers as this type of museum is important for local communities. read more

ALWAYS so very accommodating. The grounds are beautifully maintained. Grateful for this space.

My sister drove from north Hollywood to spend what was supposed to be a nice Sunday with her daughter based on what the website said, just to find out that some of the vendors didn't show up,and the ones that where there where underprepared for the weather so they couldn't enjoy the different activities (for example) they had making your own mask arts and crafts station but only provided a cut out of a "skeleton mask" but no way to decorate do to the weather they didn't want anything flying away, and there was nothing special from what was being displayed on their site. When I spoke to a lady working the event she said, we get what we get and that it is what it is. Rather than letting people know before going in what's to be expected. It just feel very misleading for the gas, and time that was spent along with the time. Could have paid a few more dollars to go and truly enjoy somewhere else that actually had what they promoted. Just put in your watching this on Sunday October 29 don't go vendors didn't show up do to weather and no one is letting guess know . Go somewhere els where you can really enjoy read more

This Historical Museum is wonderful to walk around and love the history of Simi Valley. Exhibits are very nice and just a pleasant experience. M Kinman read more

Cutest hidden little gem in Simi Valley. One of my good friends got married here and it was the cutest setting. If you'd like to step back in time walk around and you'll fall in love with the buildings. The little chapel is super cute and provided a cozy atmosphere. Plenty of pretty photo ops around the park. It it well manicured and kept clean. Clean bathrooms, too- always a plus! I'd like to come back and visit on a regular day. read more

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Pretty cool place! Love the old stuff and the chapel is gorgeous!! Great experience especially for being free. Stop and smell the roses read more

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We've visited the Strathearn several times with our grandson. The first time he thought it would be boring, but ended leaving with a smile on his face after we made the circle of the buildings on site. The old machinery in the barns interested him. We also had a docent lead us through several of the houses, and we all learned a lot about the way life used to be in early Simi and Ventura County history. The second time we were there for their annual history day. Classic cars and tractors were on hand. A vaquero demonstrated his roping skills on horseback; really impressive. Great spot to move to a slower pace away from present day stresses. read more

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We were in the area and stopped in to check it out. There was ample parking when we arrived and it was pretty empty - there was one family doing the docent tour and one other person walking the grounds. We chose not to do the docent tour and just walked around on our own. The ground were well kept and it was easy to walk around as the buildings were well spaced out. There were placards where you can read up on the history of each building/item. All the flowers were in bloom and there were plenty of tables to enjoy a picnic if that's what you desire. Definitely a nice and informative quick stop. This is place is also nice for a small private event with a rustic flair - the staff were setting up for a private dinner party inside the barn. Note - watch your step when in the garden next to the library as it can be quite muddy. read more

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I absolutely love this park. All of the associates were hospitable and full of information. It's a whole city and open space for an event. I came here for a friend's wedding and was thoroughly impressed and intrigued with the history of the property and how festive it is. read more

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Here's a hidden historical gem in Simi Valley that truly takes you back in time. The moment you walk on the property, you seem to be entering a time portal that takes you back into the 1800s. As you walk past the ol' Simi Store & Barbershop, you'll see the Colony Homes that are very well preserved. You'll enjoy walking inside them & seeing many artifacts from furniture, dishes, a typewriter, a stove, clothes and a cool ice-box (now referred to in our day as a refrigerator). They also have a great display of old farm vehicles & wagons. I especially enjoyed learning the history behind the name of our city Simi and certain streets like Tapu. To get the most of this experience, you should call in advance to setup a tour of your own: 805-526-6453 read more

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I cannot say enough good things about Strathearn! I got married here on 3/11/17 and it turned out amazing. Carolyn is very helpful and easy to work with. The staff here was very accommodating, the price was great, and you can use all of your own vendors. Karen who was there the day of our event also went above and beyond to help us keep things running smoothly even though that wasn't her job! All of our guests loved how interesting and unique the venue was, and everything looked beautiful on the grounds due to all the recent rain. Overall, if youre looking for a more affordable option for a barn wedding this is the place to go! Nearly half the price of Camarillo Ranch House and just as nice. Love Strathearn!!! read more

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After living in this area for several years, we finally made it over here for a visit. This is a nice place to come and learn the history of Simi Valley. They have several different buildings that you can tour and see how the town was started. They also offer docent led tours or you can just wander around yourself. There are also docents walking around, dressed in costumes from the time period, who can tell you about the buildings and the grounds. Everyone is super friendly and knowledgeable. It is definitely worth a trip to learn a little about Simi Valley and how it got started. read more

I had my wedding here a few months ago and I was so happy with the outcome of everything. The venue was beautiful and all my guests loved the place. I recommend this to any bride on a tight budget. read more

Strathearn Historical Park & Museum - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Simi Valley, California

I love this place! I come here just to take pictures. My MIL was out here a few weeks ago and we got up early to come explore and take photos. I'd love to do my cocktail hour wedding photos here in a couple of months! Such a gorgeous venue and just beautiful to walk around. read more

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Had the pleasure to work with the Ruby here for the first time a couple weeks ago for a wedding! I was amazed with the venue, we held both the ceremony and the reception. This place is a hidden gem! If you're looking for a great priced venue with a little bit of country feel this is the place. Ruby did an excellent job with the decor and coordination! read more

Strathearn Historical Park & Museum - Barn! - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Simi Valley, California

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I love this park !!!! it comes with it own history... it's older then me. And I've been going since I was a kid. If want Xmas amazing wedding sight.... this is a great spot read more

Nice museum. The focus is the local history of the site (as well as other historical buildings that were moved into the park). This is also the site of El Rancho Simi (California Historic Landmark No. 979). I took the docent lead tour. First you have to endure their history video (done on VHS); there was much gnashing of teeth.... If you have retained your sanity, you are then allowed to be escorted through the buildings and learn about the people who inhabited the area. The tour took about an hour or so; it might depend on how large the tour group is though. The parking lot is not huge, so I can imagine it filling up on a busy weekend. You can do a self-guided tour, but then you can not enter the buildings. read more

What a magical setting for our Annual Wild West Casino Fundraiser for the BumbleBee Foundation! Our guests always say how much fun they have, especially when gambling in the Exhibit Hall, and getting locked up in the "Charityville Jail!" We always serve drinks and dinner on the lawn, there's plenty of room for dancing and the historic backdrop gives is SO much character. You can see more photos on our website of the event here: http://www.bumblebeefoundation.org/annualfundraiser.html read more

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Strathearn Park is a wonderful local Location for Many different types of events. As a Local DJ, I have played at this location over 20 times in the past few years. We have done everything from a good old fashion Barn Dance, to a Western style wedding, Fundraisers and more. I highly recommend you give this location a try. Friendly Staff, beautiful Outside Picnic area, and a very cool Large Barn for all indoor events. The price is also very reasonable. Most of all you are surrounded with amazing history of Simi Valley. Jimmy Owens of JMYO Entertainment in Simi Valley. read more

I didn't really do a docent lead tour here. I visited this park & museum during a recent Civil War re-enactment event, no I did not dress up. Other people did though, and it was awesome. I hope that it will be an annual event. I did tour the Strathearn house though, it's the larger white one. It's one of the founding homesites in Simi Valley. The old adobe is no longer standing, but it is an archealogical site, pending funds, of course. There were two Strathearn family members living here until the 1960's, and then the property was turned over to the Parks and Recreation Department. A docent did tell us that most 3rd graders in Simi Valley visit the museum and park as part of their studies. There are a two homes, a visitor center, and various outbuildings here (old cars, old-time farming equipment), all of it various stages of rehabilitation. It is a nice property. read more

I love love love this place. So much beauty and so much historical fun for the little ones. Truly a hidden gem in Simi. I think it would make an amazing wedding venue too read more

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This is a great place to visit and do so when they tour the site so you need to plan for that. If you love history and historic places you will love this place. read more

We had our wedding here exactly six months ago today! I could not be happier with the venue and event planners they had to gel out. Ruby Mellenger is a life saver-She made our wedding EXACTLY how we wanted! All of the guests who attended agreed this is the most unique and fun venue for a wedding! In fact my friend who attended the wedding is recently engaged and after seeing the venue, she also chose Strathearn as her wedding venue as well! I wish the day could've lasted forever read more

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I was walked through all the buildings and given a great education on the history. It was interesting to learn how it was tied into the fruit (apricot) packing industry. Great tour, very enjoyable. read more

Our family went to their yearly scary haunted farm and it was super cool! Bring a jacket though. I learned things about this city, which is something I enjoy. I love that barn they have - what a great place for a FUN party!! read more

We just had a class reunion here. I can't say enough about Carolyn and the people who are onsite. They were so helpful. It is magical at night with the lights. It just makes you feel good.We are so lucky to have this place. read more

Love this venue. My baby shower was amazing and the help and assistance from everyone that work here was amazing. Thank you read more

This is a wonderful hidden gem in Simii Valley. If you want to learn about Simi Valley and its past, this is the place to be. Ive been here a couple times and will probably come back witth my kids soon enough. read more

This is a must visit place to any Simi Valley resident. I have been here several times for the Ghost tours during halloween and its really fun way for kids and adults to learn about history and get a good laugh. Just last month they had civil war reenactments with troops, tents, and various military demonstrations. If you haven't been I highly recommend visiting as we are lucky to have such a nice piece of history right here in Simi Valley. read more

Although I lived there until I was 12 years old, I didn't know there _was_ anything historical in Simi Valley until my dad took me to this quirky, hidden gem of a museum and park last November. Fascinating place full of displays about early life in the area and a lovely, quiet, flower-filled park with historic buildings. I really recommend this place to Simi Valley residents, specifically, but also to anyone who'd like a feel for old-time small town life in a California agricultural area. Worthy of your support. read more

Just went to a wedding here and I was blown away with the location... It's a neat little throwback to the old west, without being tacky or an eyesore read more

My husband and I got married here and it was perfect! Everyone was telling us it was the best wedding they had ever been too! I loved it! And great setting for photos. Plus you can bring in your own stuff so very affordable. Also use ruby!! She is the best and made it a perfect and stress free event for us. read more

Went to a wedding here and it is a great venue for one. The wedding was on the big lawn and it had afternoon shade (good thing as it was around 100* that day. The reception was in the closed barn, Great place with mood lighting but a bit warm. They had several fans but still quite warm. The park was nice and clean and had security of a ranger to keep uninvited people out as park was closed. We will go back again to visit when the park is open and take a tour. It is a great place to have a wedding though just keep in mind the weather read more