Museum •Cultural Center • Historical Site
Nestled in the heart of the Sierra Foothills in the picture-perfect gold-mining town of Grass Valley sits a beautiful, landmark gem: the Grass Valley Museum and the Saint Joseph's Cultural Center. We are a recognized state and national historic landmark and home to the historic Russell Rose Garden. We are a performance, event, and wedding venue, and artist studio residence. Visit us and take a tour of our historic nunnery and orphanage, full of rich history from the Gold Rush days, with displays of furniture, art, clothing, musical instruments, and artifacts from the Victorian era. Tour our unique Gardens, filled with over 100 heritage roses, trees, and plants. Tour Saint Joseph’s Chapel and view the intricate, pressed tin tiles and stained glass windows. Our doors are open to education fun for the whole family!
We are a Women’s History Site of National Importance
Only two 19th century convents remain in California. We are the older of the two, which makes us the oldest women’s convent still standing west of the Rockies. We are also the oldest complete Sisters of Mercy building in the U.S. and the only one still standing built by Mother Baptist Russell.
What is happening to save this important site?
This compound with its walled garden tells the story of women and children. Around 1900, 25 Sisters and staff cared for 350 young people, mostly girls. Silent are the dining rooms, kitchen, and laundry. The Milk-house is full of leaves. Classrooms have empty desks in place. The nuns’ cells are artist studios. But, like any structure from the Civil War period, it takes constant care. We are making progress on small projects.