Story and photos by Bob Crum

The grand opening the long awaited Ventura County Agriculture Museum was held Sunday, September 25. The realization of more than 40 years of dedicated efforts by ever hopeful supporters, the Agriculture Museum is appropriately housed in the historic Southern Pacific Milling Co. building built in 1888. Known as the Mill... the restored building is at 926 Railroad Avenue, Santa Paula, beside the railroad tracks and across from the Santa Paula depot.

The Agriculture museum tells the compelling story of Ventura County's rich farming and ranching history, beginning with the Mission period and continuing to today's technological advances. Exhibitions will explore water use, insects, geography, crop progression, the farmer's art, livestock and grazing, labor, consumers, economics and future technology.

Besides the amazing and very big “thrasher”... there are eight vintage tractors, dating from 1914 to 1955, found throughout the marvelously restored old building. There's even a classic tractor complete with sound effects which children can climb up on, sit on the seat, and pretend to drive. The fascinating machines are part of a rotating display of the museum's nationally recognized collection of farm implements. There are also some classic vintage trucks, horse-drawn buggies and other interesting farm and ranching equipment on display.
Hours and admission: Open 11:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., Tuesday through Sunday. Admission is $4.00 adults, $3.00 seniors, $1.00 children 6-17 and children under 6 free.