Maintenance and repair of the stately Queen Anne building – the birthplace of Union Oil in 1890 – housing the museum was the focus of the recent fundraising party.The campaign had a solid kickoff with about $3,000 raised in the first week, “With an overall campaign goal of $10,000,” Nelson noted.2006 Campaign Co-Chairs are Andre van der Valk and historian Judy Triem, the president of San Buenaventura Research Associates who prepared the documentation for the museum’s successful nomination to the National Register of Historic Sites in 1985.Van der Valk is president of Jalidat Petroleum, an owner/operator of service stations throughout Southern California, including Alliance in Santa Paula.Nelson said that those who make a Benefactors gift to the museum would be honored through a listing on the Legacy Wall of the museum located in Keck Hall and on the museum website.Monetary donations are appreciated as are gifts of stock, IRAs, or real estate – which have tax advantages for most donors – or personal property whether autos or antiques and bequests are welcome.Nelson said that the Benefactors Campaign was launched in 2003…for more information, call 933-0076 or visit the website, www.oilmuseum.net
Oil Museum: Still time for giving to 2006 Benefactors Campaign
December 27, 2006
Santa Paula News
Although Christmas is over there’s still time for giving to the Santa Paula California Oil Museum 2006 Benefactors Campaign.
By Peggy KellySanta Paula TimesAlthough Christmas is over there’s still time for giving to the Santa Paula California Oil Museum 2006 Benefactors Campaign.“By making a year-end Benefactors Gift to the museum you provide funding for museum exhibits, tours and school programs through the New Year,” said Museum Administrator Mike Nelson.The museum has moved heavily into the fundraising arena and recently hosted its first money-raising social event.The museum is not only enjoyed by local residents but also draws visitors to Santa Paula who are interested in the oil industry – its array of permanent displays focus on the industry’s Santa Paula roots, vintage gas pumps, memorabilia and a 1900 cable-tool drilling rig – and rotating art, local history and science and technology exhibits.Among the museum’s visitors are organized groups, car clubs, schools and those who ride in on the tourist train.Nelson carefully tracks visitors’ hometowns that range throughout the state, across the nation and around the globe.The museum gift store had a good Christmas season offering unique items and gifts highlighting the local area, oil industry, history and transportation.
