BCNARTS: Enjoy A Blast From The Past, Architecture And More, In San Joses History Park

**Bay City News**

Before San Jose transformed into a bustling metropolis, it was a quaint city nestled in an agrarian region, complete with shops, schools, and residences.

A glimpse into this earlier Santa Clara Valley is preserved at History Park, a 14-acre site located just two miles south of downtown San Jose. Part of the larger Kelley Park, which also features Happy Hollow Park & Zoo and the Japanese Friendship Garden, History Park offers a re-creation of life in the Santa Clara Valley from 1880 to 1930 through more than 30 restored buildings.

“The history here extends beyond just San Jose,” explained Janna Standridge, who has been leading tours at the park for many years.

Originally, the park grounds were home to an orchard. History Park was established by relocating original buildings to the site and constructing replicas to depict California's past. Opened in 1971, the park's latest addition—a train station from South Santa Clara County—is currently awaiting restoration.

Among the park’s notable features is a replica of an electric light tower that once graced downtown San Jose. The original tower, built in 1881, stood 237 feet tall, while the replica measures 115 feet. Some believe the original tower inspired Gustave Eiffel’s famous structure in Paris.

The park's restored buildings, many of which house nonprofit groups or museums, include notable homes of prominent San Jose figures. The Andrew P. Hill House, preserved here, was home to the photographer who championed the conservation of redwoods in the Santa Cruz mountains, leading to the creation of California's first state park. Adjacent is the Markham House, former residence of poet Edwin Markham, now housing Poetry Center San Jose.

The Greenawalt House, a restored Italianate-style home moved to the park in 1991, now serves as the Vit Museum. Another Victorian house, built for the Zanker family in 1868, is home to the African American Heritage House.

Summer visits to History Park are popular, with several hundred visitors on a typical weekend. Guests can enjoy the shade of numerous trees or relax in picnic areas. An air-conditioned museum in the Pacific Hotel showcases exhibits on San Jose's fruit-growing history and the origins of Eggo waffles.

On hot days, visitors can cool off at O'Brien's Ice Cream Parlor and Candy Shop, which offers sweet treats on weekend afternoons.

The park also features an electric trolley ride around the grounds, with trolleys housed in the Diridon Trolley Barn. A replica of a 1927 gas station adds to the nostalgic experience.

History Park hosts various ticketed special events. “Music Under the Sun,” featuring a mix of R&B, blues, cumbia, and tribute bands, is scheduled for August 24. The “Chicano Soul Fest” on September 7 will showcase art, lowriders, and a concert with mariachi, banda, and funk performances. “Cars in the Park,” a large antique auto show, will take place on September 14.

Located at 635 Phelan Ave., San Jose, History Park is partially concealed behind thick fences and is directly across from Excite Ballpark, home of the San Jose Giants minor league baseball team.

“It’s San Jose’s best-kept secret,” said Sharon Fox, History Park’s marketing manager.

History Park is open daily from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. with free admission. For more information, call (408) 287-2290 or visit historysanjose.org. Event details can be found at historysanjose.org/programs-events.