CURRENT EXHIBITS

Our exhibits make our history come alive! Learn about the steamships that serviced the island for 100 years.  See our colorful collection of Catalina pottery and tile.  Touch buffalo fur.  Learn how Hollywood used Catalina Island as a “backlot” for hundreds of movies. Enjoy beautiful oil paintings of Avalon Bay and the interior.  Learn about the birth of sportfishing right here on Catalina.  Give us 30 minutes of your time and we'll give you 7,000 years of history!

PERMANENT EXHIBITS
   ~ Catalina’s First Inhabitants: The Gabrielinos
     ~ The Evolution of a Resort Community
     ~ Reeling in a New Sport: Sportfishing on Catalina Island
     ~ Island Ranching
     ~ Catalina’s Steamers: In All the World No Trip Like This!
     ~ The Ning Po: A Chinese Junk in Catalina Waters
     ~ The Casino
     ~ Hollywood on Catalina

SPECIAL EXHIBITS
 

August 29 - October 1, 2008

    ~ Catalina Pottery & Tile Extravaganza

You won't want to miss the 10th Annual Pottery and Tile extravaganza!  This year features many rare and unique pieces and two dedicated collectors have curated two of the displays to share their collections and passion for the ware.

 The pottery plant (located where the Edison plant now is) produced a wide range of products from 1927-1937 and the island became famous for the mix and match pottery which is highly collectible today.  Evidence of the tile manufacturing can still be found all over Avalon today.

Both the tile and pottery are highly collectible today.  Our exhibit is a great way to become acquainted with the wide variety of styles and colors produced in the 10-year lifespan of the plant.

The museum has published a beautiful book showcasing our collection and a great primer for the beginning collector and we also offer  twice weekly walking tours that feature out tile heritage.

July 4, 2008 - January 2009

~ The Birth of Sportfishing
Don't miss this special show on the birth of sportfishing and Catalina's vital role in that.  Sponsored by the world famous Tuna Club. Featuring historic photos, video and interactive activities for kids.  Special thanks to Afishinado Fishing Charters, High Tide Traders and Steve's Steakhouse for donations and services for our Members Only opening reception.

Now - August 30, 2008

The Day the Island Was Saved

created by Avalon Schools Island Scholars

The Fire of May 2007 was a memorable experience for all of us on Catalina Island and all who love her.  Learn how a group of students experienced the dramatic events of that day and night from a 6th-graders perspective. Sponsored by the Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors.

Back by Popular Demand!

     ~ A Grateful Island: Catalina's Fire of May 2007

Everyone was disappointed when last summer's popular exhibit, which explored the how, when and where of last year's dramatic fire, was taken down to make room for the latest temporary exhibit.  So, we brought it back in a slightly reduced format that still includes amazing photos, a detailed timeline and videos of breaking news coverage.

Not on Catalina?  Check out our
ONLINE EXHIBITS
Visit the virtual museum exhibits hosted at www.ecatalina.com.
     ~ The Evolution of a Resort Community: How did Avalon come to be?
     ~ Catalina Pottery and Tile, 1927 - 1947: Examine the history of this
colorful ware.
     ~ The Casino: Learn the story behind Avalon's beloved landmark building.
     ~ The Chicago Cubs Spring Training: The story of Catalina & the Cubs
     ~ Filming Catalina: Hollywood's Exotic Back Lot
     ~ Seaplanes of Catalina: Discover these amazing aircraft!
     ~ World War II on Catalina Island: From resort community to military station.