History isn’t meant to be locked away in dusty books. It’s meant to be experienced.
That’s where we come in!
The Petalumans of Yesteryear can offer you or your organization a one-of-a-kind experience you’ll be talking about for years.
Our costumed members assume the personalities of prominent early Petaluma citizens, to share the story of our fascinating town in personalized, authentic and genuinely fun way. In fact, you’ve probably seen us in period garb, leading tours in our beautiful historic downtown, or participating in civic ceremonies.
We can bring that same unique experience to you, at your home, your office, or your meeting. We can appear singly, or together as a group, and our presentations can range from 10 minutes to an hour.
Petaluma is a one-in-a-million place. If you live here, you’ve sensed it. Now, find out why. And share that Petaluma pride with your family, friends, or business associates. For more information about the historical characters’ lives please read this linked ‘Suggested Reading’ list.
Contact us today via email at liz.cohee@petalumamuseum.com for further details. We’d be thrilled to tell you more.
The Petalumans
Clara McNear
Clara McNear and her husband John arrived in Petaluma November, 1856, in response to a letter from her father urging the young couple to come. Clara’s [...]
Edward Spaulding Lippett
Edward Spaulding Lippett and his wife Sarah left Connecticut and came to Petaluma in 1863. He became Petaluma's first Superintendent of Schools. In 1867 he built a private [...]
Ada Daley Atwater
Ada (Addie) Daley Atwater was born on October 16, 1836 in Hamilton, Ontario, Canada, of a well-to- do family. Her grandfather fought in the Revolutionary War [...]
Isaac Wickersham
Isaac Wickersham, one of Petaluma’s leading citizens and bankers was born in York County, Pennsylvania in 1820. In 1853, he arrived in Petaluma; a [...]
Lyman Byce
Lyman Byce developed the incubator into a huge commercial success, forever changing the poultry business and helping to make it Petaluma’s claim to fame. A [...]
Thomas Fulsher Baylis
Thomas Fulsher Baylis was one of the de facto founders of Petaluma. In the first two decades of its existence he became a prominent businessman [...]
Ida Belle Mc Near
Ida Belle Mc Near was married to George P. McNear, the son of John Augustus Mc Near. John owned the graineries, the hotels, the banks, and the [...]
William Pepper
Although Mr. William Pepper came to California in 1850 in search of gold, along with thousands of others 49ers; he did not arrive in Petaluma until 1858, the [...]