Yosemite's cultural history is as dynamic and awe-inspiring as its natural landscape. The stories, pictures, traditions, letters and legends of the generations of American Indians, early explorers and travelers to Yosemite reflect the complex and enduring relationship between people and their natural environment. Preserving Yosemite's cultural history is both meaningful and instructive, connecting us spiritually and practically to Yosemite's past so that we may better understand and care for its future.

Current Projects

• Chinquapin Historic Structures Restoration
  Funding Needed: $84,016
  Located conveniently at the junction of Hwy 41 and the Glacier Point Road, the Chinquapin rest stop is well used and much appreciated. Although functional, the facility is in need of repair. This project will rehabilitate the classic restroom and restore the original stone water fountain and surrounding terraces.
• Indian Cultural Center Archeology
  Funding Needed: $44,221
  This project focuses on the archeology of Wahoga, the last historically occupied Indian village in Yosemite Valley. Just west of Camp 4 and Yosemite Lodge a new Indian Cultural Center is being developed by members of the Southern Sierra Miwok. The project will provide required documentation to guide protection and preservation of archeological resources at the Indian Cultural Center site.
• Historic Museum Drawings
  Funding Needed: $28,500
  Yosemite is home to the first museum in a National Park and contains over 2.8 million items. The Yosemite Museum building was built with a Rockefeller grant in the 1920’s and is in need of major renovation. This project will produce a complete set of “existing conditions” drawings to serve as a base for architects and engineers to plan future museum rehabilitation.
• Yosemite Valley Railroad
  Funding Needed: $24,273
  El Portal is home to the Yosemite Railroad collection. In addition to the Shay locomotive, turntable and a caboose, the original water tanks are on site. They are in need of a thorough restoration to ensure structural integrity and bring back their visual quality.
• Wilderness Cabin Restoration
  Funding Needed: $41,100
  There are a variety of unique historic structures in Yosemite’s wilderness. They include ski huts, ranger cabins and pioneer and mining home sites. Keeping them in good repair requires regular attention. This grant will complete upgrades to the Wilma and Vernon Lakes Ranger Cabins including roofing, cabinetry and a new stove.

Rehabilitation of historic buildings in the Pioneer History Center, Wawona Covered Bridge, the Mariposa Grove, Yosemite Museum and Indian Village. Acquisition of Indian artifacts, rare books and restoration of early paintings, photographs and films.