Are you interested in the many groups and individuals who shaped the history of your community? Curious about long-gone buildings that used to stand on your block? Looking for rare local historical records, photographs and artifacts?

Step back in time and join over 30 local historical and cultural organizations as they showcase their collections, hidden treasures and upcoming projects at Sonoma County Finding History Day on Saturday, August 6, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Finley Community Center, Person Auditorium, 2060 W. College Ave, Santa Rosa.

The free event is presented by the Sonoma County Historical Society, which also celebrates its 60^th anniversary this summer, and is co-hosted by the Sonoma County Library. Sponsors include many notable local groups and associations, such as the Redwood Empire Chinese Association, Harry Lindstrom of the Sea Ranch Archives Committee, the Filipino American National Historical Society, the Rancho Bodega Historical Society and the Japanese American Citizens League.

“Here is a chance, all in one place, for residents to meet the often-hidden groups, which are keeping culture and history alive in all corners of the county,” said Sonoma County Historical Society President Ray Johnson.

 “Sonoma County has been blessed with the rich diversity which comes from people from all corners of the world. Finding History Day will provide a chance for students to engage with great resources for future research and reports,” added Michael Von der Porten, treasurer for the Sonoma County Historical Society and archivist for the Drake Navigators Guild.

 Local public, private, academic and governmental organizations will share their ongoing projects and highlight samples of their holdings—participants range from the Santa Rosa Rural Cemetery and Fort Ross Conservancy to the Sonoma County Historical Records Commission. The event will also include book signings by local authors and many presentations featuring the diversity of Sonoma County’s rich legacy.

 Sonoma County Library Special Collections will be tabling at the event, and the BiblioBus, the mobile tech-hub of the library system, will make a stop in front of the building. Register for a library card, access free Wi-Fi, and check out books and media on the bus!