The Moraga Historical Society was established in 1965 to gather, preserve and disseminate knowledge about the history of the Rancho Laguna de los Palos Colorados, what is now the Town of Moraga plus portions of Orinda and Lafayette. This Rancho was the original 13,316 acre land-grant given to Joaquin Moraga and his cousin, Juan Bernal by the Mexican government in 1841. Moraga was the grandson of Jose Joaquin Moraga, who led a number of expeditions to the San Francisco Bay Area, and who is considered to be the founder of the San Francisco Presidio and Mission.

Our History Center, at the Western end of the Moraga Library, has a collection of photos, files, books and artifacts from and about Moraga Valley's history. It is a strictly volunteer organization. They hold general meetings four to five times annually which feature speakers on various topics of historical interest, including one formal dinner banquet featuring a high-profile speaker. In July the Society sponsors a Pot Luck dinner for members at the Hacienda de las Flores, and once or twice a year they travel to local historical sites for educational lectures and tours. They Society has published a hard-covered 225 page book, Moraga's Pride, which covers the history of the Rancho from the days of the dinosaurs to the beginning of the 21st century. This book is available for sale, along with many other items of historical interest, at the Historical Center and other businesses and events around Moraga. For additional information, click the Link, checkout our website at www.moragahistory.org, or telephone (925) 377-8734.

View the Presidents Letter