The Banning Museum

05/25/2026

We honor those who have sacrificed for our freedom. Swipe to read about the history of this special day.

05/18/2026

Celebrate International Museum Day with us at The Banning Museum — the historic home built by Phineas Banning, known as the “Father of the Port of Los Angeles.” ✨

Step inside this beautifully preserved 1860s mansion and explore the rooms, architecture, and stories that reflect the life and legacy of one of Southern California’s most influential early entrepreneurs. From elegant interiors to fascinating artifacts, every space offers a window into a remarkable chapter of California history. 🏛️

Whether you’re visiting for the first time or rediscovering the Museum, we invite you to walk through history, imagine life in early Wilmington, and experience the legacy of Phineas Banning firsthand.

Happy International Museum Day! ❤️

05/14/2026

05/10/2026

Happy Mother’s Day!

04/24/2026

Last day of Banning Heritage Week! Welcome to our brand new volunteers and trainers 🎉

04/23/2026

Step back into the 1880s at Banning Heritage Week—where history comes alive!

Fourth graders experience a day in the life of early California through hands-on activities: from touring the historic home and writing on slate boards in a one-room schoolhouse, to churning butter, washing clothes the old-fashioned way, and even watching a live blacksmith demonstration.

It’s a 2.5-hour journey that brings the past to life—sparking curiosity, creativity, and connection to local history in ways the classroom simply can’t replicate.

Teachers also receive pre-visit materials and activities to extend the learning beyond the field trip.

04/14/2026

🌸 It’s that time of year again — our beloved Annual Volunteer Spring Tea is here! ☕✨

Every year, our incredible volunteers bring their creativity and passion to life by decorating their own uniquely themed tables — and this year did not disappoint! From the stunning tablescapes to the gorgeous May tree, every detail was crafted with so much heart. 🌳🌸🌹

A huge, heartfelt THANK YOU to our amazing volunteers — this museum wouldn’t be what it is without you. Your dedication, creativity, and love for history make everything we do possible. 💛

04/10/2026

Did you know that the Banning Museum is a city, state, and national historic landmark?

Photo shows the house in 1873. This is the oldest known photo of The Banning Mansion.

04/10/2026

By way of introduction: Phineas Banning and The Banning Museum

A brief introduction into the life of early Los Angeles pioneer and entrepreneur, Phineas Banning and his significant impact on the development and growth of...

04/06/2026

"Since the beginning of history, the human race has depended on animals — horses, mules, camels and oxen — for long distance transportation across land. Such was the case in Southern California. Los Angeles and other settlements along El Camino Real were accessible only by horseback and stagecoach. That would begin to change with the efforts of a person who would become known as the “King of Transportation,” Phineas T. Banning." Continue reading this article on the Los Angeles City Historical Society blog by John E. Fisher.

by John E. Fisher, LACHS Board Member Since the beginning of history, the human race has depended on animals — horses, mules, camels and oxen — for long distance transportation across land.  Such was the case in Southern California. Los Angeles and other settlements along El Camino Real we