Discover authentic 1860’s life in Auburn in the 1.5 acre Bernhard Museum Complex. The complex includes the Bernhard home, originally built as a Traveler’s Rest Hotel in 1851, the beautiful grounds and gardens, the winery and the Carriage Barn.
The home is furnished as the Bernhard family would have known it in the 1860s and 70s, with meticulously restored period furniture, fixtures and artwork. Friendly docents dressed in period clothing lead tours through the home, telling the story of German emigrant Bernhard Bernhard’s journey from would-be gold miner to wealthy agriculturalist.
The grounds also offer keen insight into life during those times. Period agricultural equipment is on display, and the Carriage Barn houses a fine collection of restored wagons. The winery building, originally built by Bernhard, is back in business and is currently the home of Bonitata Boutique Wine (check their website for information on tasting and hours).
Bernhard and his family lived and worked the property during a pivotal time in Auburn’s, and all of California’s, history, and it continues to be an important part of local life. The museum is the home of the third grade Living History Program, educating three thousand local students a year. The museum is open Tuesday through Sunday from 1:30pm to 4pm, closed on Mondays and holidays. Check the website for more information.
