Orange County Historical Commission

The Orange County Historical Commission was established by the Board of Supervisors in 1973 in response to requests by interested County residents. Orange County families, businesses, libraries, schools, churches, and other institutions have traditionally fostered interest in history since their beginnings.

Several cities have encouraged the identification, preservation, and adaptive reuses of their historic buildings, many of which date back to the turn of the century. With the formation of the Historical Commission, Orange County government became involved in the realm of local history.

The Commission is a citizen advisory group with fifteen members: three members are appointed from each of the five Supervisorial Districts. At monthly meetings, the Historical Commission reviews items related to historic places, archeological and paleontological sites, archives/historic records, publications, special events, etc. The Historical Commission’s role is to advise the Board of Supervisors’ and County agencies regarding these matters. Executive Officer and staff provide administrative assistance through the County’s OC Community Resources-OC Parks.