Welcome to the Susanna Bixby Bryant Museum and Botanic Garden, a historical treasure tucked away in Yorba Linda, California. This location serves as a window into the past, offering a glimpse of early California ranch life and the pioneering spirit that helped shape the region.
The story begins in 1878 when John Bixby, one of the founders of Long Beach, purchased nearly 6,000 acres of land from the widow of Bernardo Yorba. This area, once a sprawling landscape of cattle and sheep, was named Rancho Santa Ana, after the adjacent river. When John Bixby passed away in 1891, his daughter, Susanna Bixby Bryant, inherited the property. As a young woman living in Los Angeles, Susanna would often visit the ranch and eventually built the 2,500-square-foot house in 1911 as a place to stay during her visits.
Susanna was not just a caretaker of her father’s legacy; she was a visionary in her own right. She developed a keen interest in native Southern Californian plants, leading her to create a remarkable 200-acre botanic garden in 1927, initially as a memorial to her father. This garden later evolved into the Rancho Santa Ana Botanic Garden, now located at Claremont Colleges.
After Susanna’s death in 1946, the ranch changed hands and fell into disrepair. However, in 1976, the City of Yorba Linda saw the potential in preserving this historical landmark. The house was meticulously restored, and it was transformed into a museum that opened in 1997, showcasing not only the history of the Bixby family but also the broader history of Yorba Linda and its surrounding areas.
Today, the museum offers a rich tapestry of exhibits, featuring vintage room furnishings from the late 1800s, artifacts from the Native American tribes, and displays on the local citrus industry. Visitors can explore the history of the Cajon Canal/Zanjeros, delve into the ‘water wars’ of the area, and even learn about the bee industry that once thrived here.
The Susanna Bixby Bryant Museum and Botanic Garden stands as a testament to the region’s history, its evolution, and the people who left their mark on this land. Whether you’re a history enthusiast or a casual visitor, this museum invites you to step back in time and experience the stories that have shaped Yorba Linda.
