The Antioch Historical Museum

09/02/2026

One of Antioch’s oldest treasures has been vandalized. The First Congregational Church Bell (circa 1871) — a historic artifact restored through more than $90,000 in community generosity — was defaced this week.

The individual climbed the tower, drew on the bell, and damaged the plaque.

This bell is a symbol of Antioch’s beginnings. Seeing it harmed is heartbreaking.

If you recognize the person on the tower, please contact the Antioch Police Department.

Let’s protect the history that belongs to all of us.

09/02/2026

💪 Hard Work Built Antioch — Come See the Story

Antioch’s history begins at the San Joaquin River, where tough, hardworking men spent long days loading and unloading heavy lumber by hand. No machines. No shortcuts. Just grit, skill, and dangerous 10–12 hour shifts on slick docks and shaky planks. And after all that? Off to the saloon — and who could blame them.

These workers helped shape the Antioch we know today.

🏛️ Discover their story at the Antioch Historical Museum.
Open Wednesdays & Saturdays, 1–4 p.m.
Free admission
📍 1500 W 4th St, Antioch, CA 94509

08/29/2026

SAVE OUR STAGE: A Community Conversation on Tues., Sept. 1, 2026 at 7 p.m.

Location: 602 W. 2nd St., Antioch, CA 94509

El Campanil Theatre belongs in the heart of this community and we know many of you have questions about what comes next.
We invite our patrons, supporters, artists, renters, business owners, and neighbors to join us for a short community gathering at the theatre.
Come:
• Hear an update and ask questions
• Share your El Campanil memories and stories
• Learn how you can support the theatre moving forward
• Connect with others who believe in keeping the arts alive in Antioch Rivertown

This is a time to come together, get informed, and talk about what the future of this historic stage could look like.
Our story here isn't over.

08/29/2026

Yes, Virginia, there IS a major river in Antioch.

Antioch sits on the San Joaquin River, the gateway to the Sacramento–San Joaquin Delta. This river shaped our city’s geography, industry, and early pioneer life — from the waterfront you see today to the very first homes built here.

The river didn’t just run beside Antioch — it built Antioch.

Come visit the Antioch Historical Museum today. We're open on Wednesdays and Saturdays, 1–4 p.m. — admission is free.

Let’s spark some curiosity and make history feel magical. Located at: 1500 W 4th St, Antioch, CA 94509

08/28/2026

El Campanil Theatre has been the heartbeat of Rivertown since 1928 — and it’s still shining.

With its stunning Spanish‑style architecture, classic marquee, and nearly a century of performances, this landmark is one of Antioch’s most beloved treasures. From vaudeville and silent films to today’s concerts, community shows, and cultural events, El Campanil continues to bring our city together.

And now you can experience it for FREE.

🎷 The USAF Commanders Jazz Ensemble from Travis Air Force Base is performing a free concert on Mon., Sept. 21, 2026 at 7:30 p.m.

Grab your tickets online or stop by the box office — this is your chance to enjoy world‑class music in one of Antioch’s most historic settings.

Come celebrate the arts, the riverfront, and the theatre that’s been part of our story for almost 100 years.

08/26/2026

There’s been a lot of conversation lately about preserving Antioch’s historic landmarks — and our museum is at the heart of that story.

As President‑Elect of the Antioch Historical Society, I’m inviting our entire community to stand with us in protecting this incredible place for future generations.

Our museum isn’t just a building. It’s where Antioch’s stories live — the people, the places, the memories that shaped our city. If we want our children and grandchildren to understand where they come from, we have to protect it.

One simple way to support this mission is by joining our newsletter. It helps us stay connected, share updates, and rally the community when preservation efforts need a strong voice.

Your information is safe, never shared, and you can unsubscribe anytime.
Please sign up here:

Don’t miss a museum moment. Be the first to hear about new exhibits, special events, and community programs. Join our newsletter and stay in the loop. Your information will never be shared. You can unsubscribe at any time.

08/26/2026

Take your kiddos on an adventure! The Antioch Historical Museum is basically a time travel playground. Kids get to touch history, explore old rooms, spot cool artifacts, and imagine what life was like “way back then.”

It’s fun and it secretly teaches them about our community’s roots while they’re busy having a blast.

Come visit on Wednesdays or Saturdays, 1–4 p.m. — admission is free. Let’s spark some curiosity and make history feel magical. Located at: 1500 W 4th St, Antioch, CA 94509

08/25/2026

Antioch has such a rich story — and the Antioch Historical Museum is working hard to preserve it. We'd love to keep you in the loop.
We're building the Antioch Historical Museum’s newsletter list. We would appreciate you signing up below to get updates, stories, and information about upcoming events. Your information will never be shared. You can unsubscribe at any time. Thank you!

Sign up here:

Don’t miss a museum moment. Be the first to hear about new exhibits, special events, and community programs. Join our newsletter and stay in the loop. Your information will never be shared. You can unsubscribe at any time.

08/22/2026

Come enjoy something timeless. The Antioch Historical Museum is open and ready for you.

Explore local history and enjoy a peaceful afternoon — free.
We’re open Wednesdays & Saturdays, 1–4 p.m.

Check out Antioch’s 158‑year‑old First Congregational Church Bell and Bell Tower. The First Congregational Church traces its roots to June 12, 1865 and the bell brought early members of the church together as it rung loudly across the city.

08/19/2026

Got a free afternoon? Visit the Antioch Historical Museum — open Wednesdays & Saturdays, 1–4 p.m. Explore the history that shaped our city.

Today’s question:
Who was Kimball Elementary named for? Any former students out there?