Historic Sites
Can you collect buildings? We do! Our historic sites are part of our collection.
Museum of Riverside
Our main site started out as a post office. The original building is in the Neo-Classical style popular when it was built in 1912.
Heritage House
Built in 1891 by widow Catharine Bettner, this Victorian showplace offers a window into Riverside’s late-19th-century story. From the Bettners’ journey west as health seekers to their role in the citrus industry and reliance on Chinese labor, the family reflected the growth of the American West. Purchased in 1969 by the Riverside Museum Associates, the home was restored and opened as a museum. Today, visitors can explore heirloom gardens, the original carriage house, and reconstructed outbuildings.
Harada House
The National Historic Landmark Harada House stands as a powerful symbol of civil rights. The Harada family’s story of courage and perseverance reflects enduring themes of democracy, immigration, citizenship, and belonging. Following World War II, daughter Sumi Harada opened the home to Japanese Americans returning from incarceration who had lost their own homes. She lived there until shortly before her death in 2000, after which the Harada family donated the property to the City of Riverside to ensure their story would continue to be told. Harada House remains a City property, stewarded by the Museum of Riverside. With architectural design work now underway by K+R Design, the Museum is preparing for the day Harada House and its interpretive center open to the public.