San Lorenzo Valley Museum presents “Telling Stories of Mexican California: Real Life & Myth Making,” opening Sept. 21 at its Faye G. Belardi Memorial Gallery in Felton, on view through Nov. 16.
This exhibition highlights the true stories of California’s Mexican period (1822-1846), contrasting them with the fantasy depictions created by early stakeholders who shaped perceptions of California’s history to suit their purposes. One prevalent narrative romanticized the era of ranchos and prosperity, often omitting native peoples, Franciscan friars and the realities of early settlements.
“Telling Stories of Mexican California” explores California’s history leading up to statehood, illustrating how both factual and fictional stories contributed to the state’s mythos. It examines how 19th-century Mexican American families shared their stories and how early narratives helped craft a lasting regional identity, often exaggerated or fictionalized, used to attract settlers and visitors after California joined the Union in 1850.
Organized by the California Historical Society, the exhibit features the CHS Collection at Stanford and tours through Exhibit Envoy. An opening reception will be held on Sept. 21 at 2pm.
Related programming includes a talk by UCSC Assistant Professor Dr. Martin Rizzo Martinez in October, focusing on indigenous histories. From Oct. 27 to Nov. 16, visitors can share memories and honor loved ones on the museum’s Día de Los Muertos altar.
Visit slvmuseum.org for more information.
