Museums

The museums listed on this page are maintained by docents selected by the Historical Museum Commission, and headed up by Commissioner John Mangelos.

Clarence Smit Museum

In July 2011, the Clarence Smit Museum was moved from Stouffer Park to the new location in the old Library building at 430 W Main Street. Open on Wednesdays and Saturdays from 1 to 4 pm or by appointment.

Please call Connie at 209-985-3186 with questions or appointment requests.

Clarence Smit was the City Administrator from 1972 to 1988. He was a charter member of the Ripon Historical Society, and his work enabled the construction of the first museum building. The museum was completed after his death, and it was named in honor of his memory.

Veteran's Memorial Museum and Memorial & Honor Wall

Mr. Mangelos also led the way for the old City Hall to be saved from destruction, and refurbished for the Veteran's Memorial Museum and Memorial and Honor Wall. This project was built by volunteers with donations from the community, local businesses, and developers. The Veteran's Museum is open every Saturday from 10 am to 4 pm.

The museum is located at:
311 1st Street
Ripon, CA 95366

Police Officers Memorial

The memorial is located next to the Veteran's Memorial Museum at:
311 1st Street
Ripon, CA 95366

The memorial honors those Ripon officers, who gave their lives 'In The Line of Duty' serving the citizens of Ripon.

Historic Ripon Jail House

The jail was constructed in 1925 and used by Ripon's constable John Garrison and the county sheriff. Ripon contractor L. Ubels built the jail for $2,498. The jail was originally erected on a lot at North Walnut Street, at the intersection of the railroad right-of-way. On December 3, 1957, it was raised off its foundation and relocated to its current location at First and Locust Street. The jail consists of two cells and a small office.

The jail is open on the first Saturday of each month from 10 am to noon.