The Coachella Valley Historical Society was running full force by 1984 due to a dedicated group of valley residents.  They were able to work with the City of Indio to purchase the Smiley-Tyler House and spearheaded the effort to create a museum in record time.  They raised the funds, found the artifacts, and opened on that October.

Since the opening, the museum has been operated by an exceptional group of volunteers.  In the past few years, the museum hired its first professionals from the field who have taken over the reins with the invaluable assistance of the volunteers, some of whom have been with the museum the entire 25 years of its existence. 

Archives

The Coachella Valley Historical Society, Inc. has been maintaining an archive depository for 25 years. History from the entire valley is included. From newspapers and magazines, to business licenses, and photographs, the archives store over 100 years of history. Researchers are welcome Monday through Thursday from 10 to 4. Please call for an appointment at 760.342.6651.