Welcome to the Official Website of
The Lake County Historical Society &
The Ely Stage Stop & Country Museum
Preserving Lake County’s Past for the Future
We are an all volunteer, donation-funded public museum.
An Overview
Mission Statement of LCHS
The Lake County Historical Society collects, restores and preserves the artifacts and historic documents of Lake County. Our mission is to encourage research and foster the education, preservation and interpretation of cultural resources, including historic structures, prehistoric sites and places of historic interest.
Preserving History
Our restoration and preservation of historic buildings, wagons and numerous artifacts ensure that the stories they tell live on for future generations.. From the Ferron Wagon, to the Kelseyville Jail, to the working Blacksmith shop, Lake County Historical Society continues to expand its preservation efforts.
Read more . . .
Board of Directors
The community engagement of the Lake County Historical Society reflects the dedicated leadership of the Board members and the public service mindset of our Docents. They welcome your ideas, concerns and involvement. To learn about them and the Officers, Bylaws & Committees,
Read more . . .
History of Ely Stage Stop
Although the museum was established in 2011, the Ely Stage Stop building has had several incarnations over the years, dating back to about 1865. The original structure was located on the Kelseyville-Lower Lake Stage Road, which is currently Highway 29. From 1887 to 1889, the historic Ely Building served as the town of Ely’s official postal and stagecoach relay station. Read more . . .
Members Support Our Future
Our Members support the LCHS mission and its goals with their annual membership renewals. Members receive not only the satisfaction of knowing that their contribution supports preservation and education, they also receive invitations to special events, such as the annual Summer picnic, as well as museum store discounts.
Read more . . .
Space for Your Private Event
The expansive site where the museum, cable car and several historic buildings are situated lends an atmosphere of casual and relaxed ambience that enhances any event; from live performances to car shows to private celebrations and meetings. There’s plenty of room for parking and abundant outdoor space for catering and table settings. Read more . . .
While You’re At Ely Stage Stop
Visit the Museum & Come to Our Events
Museum Hours are on weekends
11 AM to 3 PM
Ely Stage Stop has special events throughout the year, such as our annual summer picnic, grand openings for new exhibits, and more. We look forward to your visit!
Now a Stage Stop tradition, the Fiddler’s Jam at The Ely Stage Stop is either in the barn, or outdoors on the cable car stage in the grove. Every first Sunday of the month, the California Old Time Fiddler’s Association presents a rousing repertoire of classic songs that delight the young, and the young-at-heart. Other genres of musical performances are anticipated this year.
Your favorite beverages are for sale at the Fiddler’s Jam, including wine from Lake County wineries. The LCHS annual Summer Picnic is a great time for members and friends to gather and enjoy a meal in the shady grove. Hayrides are also part of the fun!
Parking is easy and admission is free! See our Contact page to make reservations for private events.
The Origins of the Lake County Historical Society
The earliest origins of the Lake County Historical Society are lost in the mists of the past — for now. It is believed, however, that the organization was founded some time during the 1930s before being disbanded at the outset of World War II for the duration of that conflict. The first meeting after the war for which there are minutes was held in January of 1946.
Read more . . .
We visited recently with out of town guests. We were all so amazed with the displays and history. The docent was extremely helpful as well. Glad we had out-of-towners. It gave us an opportunity to see your awesome museum. We will visit again.
— Owner of Dilly’s Dally, a Plant Shop in Kelseyville
What a wonderful place! Volunteers make this a splendid choice--history, artifacts, genuinely friendly people! And music to make the toes tap and hearts sing...what more is needed to make for a delightful experience!
— Dee Doyle
Your Support is Appreciated
The Lake County Historical Society and the Ely Stage Stop are operated by volunteers dedicated to preserving the rich history of Lake County. Funding, through membership dues, donations and fundraising, enables them to continue to operate as a 501c3 nonprofit.
We appreciate the support we’ve received from the local community and beyond. View our 2023 milestones.
Let’s Stay Connected!
Sign up to receive news of events and more.
Sign up to be the first to know about our events, special programming, opportunities to be involved, and the development and completion of our newest exhibits. Our newsletter is sent monthly. Click to view our Privacy Policy.