Map of the Portuguese discoveries
Exhibits in the museum will depict the history of the Portuguese immigrants. This story will be framed in the context of an overall picture of the Portuguese historical experience. The story will unfold in layers:
- The premier position of Portugal during the time of the discoveries
- Portuguese immigrations throughout the world
- Portuguese immigration to the United States
- Portuguese migration to California
- Portuguese settling in Santa Clara Valley
Coming to America exhibit
The Portuguese story in California and the Santa Clara Valley will focus on important cultural and historical events, such as the Portuguese in the Gold Rush, the Portuguese in the California whaling industry, and the Portuguese in the California dairy industry. Other stories will include the building of the Five Wounds Portuguese National Church, the Holy Ghost festas, the benevolent societies, and the individual stories of everyday Portuguese immigrants.
The museum will be one of constantly changing exhibits. The permanent collection will be frequently augmented by other temporary displays from other parts of California, the United States, and even from Portugal. The goal is to make the museum a constant venue of entertainment and education about Portuguese culture and history.
