Jeanne Orcutt: Departing California Oil
Museum director lauded by Council
October 09, 2015
By Peggy Kelly
Santa Paula News
The former director of the Santa Paula California Oil Museum, located in the historic building where Union Oil was founded more than a century ago, was lauded Monday by the City Council.
Mayor John Procter presented a proclamation and City Tile to Jeanne Orcutt and noted her contributions to the unique venue located on the corner of East Main and 10th streets.
The museum concentrates on oil, geology and its exploration and features numerous displays including hundreds of gasoline related memorabilia as well as an impressive gas pump collection. But it is also noted for its revolving sciences, art and historical exhibits as well as for its interactive educational programs that draw thousands of students each year.
Orcutt joined the museum — the building is leased at nominal cost to and operated by the city, which staffs the operation — in 2005 and was promoted to director in June 2007.
“Talk about effective supervision,” Procter noted that Orcutt expanded the museums programs and offerings.
“Also impressive is she led them to financial independence,” with a large number of grants including those that Orcutt grew from $20,000 to $100,000,
Such revenue generation said Procter will allow the museum to eventually become an independent entity.
“Your stewardship has been wonderful,” said Procter who noted “I know it’s in your blood,” that Orcutt has a natural talent for history, as well as her own deep family history in Santa Paula including the Union Oil Company.
Orcutt noted her appreciation and addressed how the museum “Is so near and dear to my heart...as you all should know I’m not leaving too far,” and will serve on the board of the museum foundation.
“I’ll be taking care of the museum for many years to come.”
Running a “first-class museum on relatively no money,” is difficult said City Manager Jaime Fontes,
“Recognizing your great skills,” Fontes said Orcutt’s career working with nonprofits and her new position “will be stellar...”
Even without observing the creative museum displays it’s easy to see “Jeanne has a great sense of style,” noted Procter. “She helped me pick out this shirt...”
