New Almaden Mercury Mining Museum, San Jose

It felt like we were walking into the 1800’s. They have done an incredible job of preserving history. The mining of mercury was not easy and the mining exhibits give the viewer a clear understanding of what it felt like to be a miner in the 1800’s.

Friendly, well informed guide. Beautiful drive past farms and forests enroute. Pretty house (named Casa Grande), well thought out and executed exhibits with plenty to see, hear, read about how quick silver was mined, used, and affected the people involved. Historic, scientific, and social stories of workers, owners, equipment, and technology. Antique packed front rooms showed how homes were furnished and decorated way back when. Gift shop had cool stuff to help entertain and teach kids. Cost is free, but a modest $2 donation is suggested, and well worth it for families or school groups.