Constitution, State History on Display

A $10.7-million museum, opening June 14 in Sacramento, will present California’s history, using interactive exhibits and videos, and put the state’s 1849 Constitution on permanent display for the first time.

Located in the California Archives Building, 1020 O St., a block from the Capitol, and financed by private and public money, the Golden State Museum has four galleries--Place, People, Promise and Politics. They focus on natural resources, immigrants and cultural diversity, the “lure” of California, and the political scene.

Highlights include the Constitution (actually, two Constitutions, in English and Spanish, both produced in 1849), a six-story-high Constitution Wall engraved with quotes from the document, and a ceiling mural designed by George Yepes. Visitors can trace five generations of a Chinese American family; see holograms of historic figures; and view newsreels in a reconstructed 1930s movie house.

After next Sunday’s festivities, noon to 7 p.m., the museum will be open Mondays through Thursdays, from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Adult admission is $6.50. Information: telephone (916) 653-7524.