Exterior of the Society of California Pioneers building in the Presidio of San Francisco.

Society of California Pioneers Museum and Library

Dive deep into history at the Society of California Pioneers.

Region

Main Post Region

Type

Museum, Military & Historic Site

Top Amenities

Accessible Restrooms, Accessible Parking, Paid Parking, Bike Parking, EV Charging

For every story of California's defining moments there are many tales awaiting discovery at the Society of California Pioneers.

The Society of California Pioneers is a non-profit that advances the appreciation of early California history. Diaries, maps, photos, artworks, and historical items are in their care.

Located on the Main Post, it offers a museum, a research library, special exhibitions, and online exhibitions. Visit on the first Saturday of the month and Fridays from 10 am to 4 pm. Entry is free, with a $5 donation appreciated.

Getting to the Society of California Pioneers

101 Montgomery Street, San Francisco, CA 94129

By Public Transit

Muni Route: 43 Masonic

Stop: Presidio Transit Center

Muni Schedule

By Presidio GO Shuttle

Route: Downtown Route

Stop: Presidio Transit Center

Presidio GO Schedule

Parking

Paid street parking can be found on Montgomery Street in front of the building. A paid parking lot is also behind the building on Taylor Road. That lot offers EV charging stations.

Why We Love Society of California Pioneers

It’s a history lover’s delight where you can see photos, artifacts, paintings, drawings, maps, and more.

Accessibility

The building entrance features a ramp. The museum’s gallery and library are accessible. For details, call them at (415) 957-1849 or visit their webpage.

Insider Tip

Make it a fun filled day of exploring history on the Main Post by stopping in to see the free exhibits at the Presidio Officers’ Club and the Presidio Visitor Center, both a short walk away.

Visitors tour the interior of the Society of California Pioneers in the Presidio.

Explore the History of California

The Society was founded alongside the state of California in 1850 and is maintained by descendants of pre-1850 pioneers.

Visit their Museum and Library

The Society’s rotating displays focus on California art, history, and culture. Drop in to see what’s new on the first Saturday of the month and every Friday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. It’s free, but a $5 donation is appreciated. Email them at info@californiapioneers.org to make an appointment for a private or group viewing.

Research Library

Researchers can dive deep at their Alice Phelan Sullivan Library, one of the first libraries established in San Francisco. The collection is rich in books and archival material that chronicle the Spanish and Mexican eras, pioneer travels, the Gold Rush, construction of the railroads, and more.

A woman looks in a display case inside the Society of California Pioneers Museum and Library.

Special and Online Exhibitions

The Society almost always has a special exhibition underway on a California history topic using their collection. See their past exhibitions online.

For Schools and Youth

The Society offers a free educational website for teachers and students to learn about California history. Learn more about the Eureka! Project.

Flagpole and archaeology site at Pershing Square.

Main Post History Loop 

Discover a ton of history in a short walk through the heart of the Presidio.

View Itinerary

People walking off the trail toward Baker Bridge with views of the Golden Gate Bridge.

Nature & History Coastal Walk

Experience wild open spaces, historic gun batteries, and Pacific Ocean and Golden Gate Bridge views.

View Itinerary

Park Itineraries

Need help planning your day at the Presidio? We’ve put together some itinerary ideas for things to see and do in the park. Whether you’re planning to spend a few hours or an entire day, there’s something for everyone at the Presidio.