SPECIAL EXHIBIT
Reason P. Tucker: The Man and His Legacy
We celebrate the momentous life of this lesser-known Calistoga pioneer whose legacy can still be traced today through the lives of his prolific descendants, many of whom still live in Napa Valley. Through photographs and family artifacts - including his rifle, a rustic sugar box, an iron bell which once sat atop the Tucker School on Larkmead Lane, a calligraphed ledger, a wooden flute, and an 1862 bible belonging to his son John Wesley Tucker – as well as period objects, visitors to the exhibit are given a vivid sense of life in Calistoga and Napa Valley from the time before the Civil War to the turn of the century.
This "quiet pioneer" rescued 19 Donner Party survivors, fathered 10 children with 4 wives, and planted some of Napa Valley's oldest grapevines-- only to lose it all and start over. See how his legacy still thrives.
EXHIBIT RUNS THROUGH FEBRUARY 2024
HAPPY 45th ANNIVERSARY
On September 30, 1978, the Sharpsteen Museum and Sam Brannan Cottage opened its doors to the public.
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Read Ben Sharpsteen’s Welcome Speech here.
Planning a visit with the young ones?
NEW- Scavenger Hunt!
Click here to download and print (2 pages), or pick one up at the museum on your next visit.
MORE TITLES ADDED--
For the Newsletter Archives- Click HERE
The Sharpsteen Museum was voted 2023 Readers' Choice, North Bay Bohemian's
"Best Museum for Napa County"!!!
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PRESERVING THE HISTORY OF CALISTOGA
AND UPPER NAPA VALLEY
The Sharpsteen Museum is a must-see destination created by Walt Disney animator and producer, Ben Sharpsteen. This award-winning museum features dioramas, artifacts, antiques and exhibits designed by Ben and his team of highly creative artists dedicated to making history fun and educational for adults and children alike.
PLEASE NOTE: Museum hours depicted in this video are incorrect.
MEET SAM BRANNAN
In 1859 Sam Brannan began purchasing his eventual 2000 acres in Hot Springs Township. He founded the town of Calistoga and built the original Calistoga Hot Springs Resort.
SAM BRANNAN COTTAGE
Relive the days of yesteryear as you walk into an one of the original Sam Brannan Cottages restored to its 1860s splendor complete with vintage furnishings.
1860 CALISTOGA DIORAMA
Highlights include an extensive, highly detailed 30-foot diorama which offers a glimpse of 1860s Calistoga and its Hot Springs Resort developed by Sam Brannan.
BEN SHARPSTEEN'S VISION
Explore Ben's creative artistry, talent, and vision as put forth throughout the museum. See one of 11 actual ‘Oscars’ awarded to Ben during his 30-years with Disney.
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WHAT OUR VISITORS ARE SAYING...
Google Reviews, June 2017
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What a cool place for kids and adults! We loved that it has ties to the original Disney gang. Mr. Sharpsteen sure was a talented and fascinating man. My personal museum favorite was the walk through attached cottage from the 1800's. It is rare to get that close to great quality antiques. My children loved the exhibit where you can watch the train go around the town. We're very glad we stopped in and also took time to shop in their reasonably priced gift shop and chat with the friendly and informative staff. Highly recommended!
—Angelina A.