Four years ago on March 14, citizens of California received word to shelter in place due to the spread of COVID-19. The impact of natural and manmade disasters is the subject of Los Altos History Museum's new exhibit titled “From Earthquakes to Epidemics: How Disasters Transform California’s People and Places.” The exhibit, on view from March 14, 2024 to May 12, 2024, examines major events in California’s history and how disasters have inspired positive changes within our communities.

The exhibit explores historic droughts, earthquakes, wildfires, floods, and pandemics in California, addressing the frequency and intensity due to the acceleration of climate change. Using art, history, and science, it gives context to the impacts of recent and historic disasters in the Golden State.

Despite challenges, disasters also serve as catalysts for societal reform, inspiring positive changes. The exhibit highlights developments in public health policies, emergency preparedness plans, and ongoing environmental and social advocacy efforts, showcasing Californians’ resilience and determination to create a better future.

“From Earthquakes to Epidemics” is a traveling exhibition from Exhibit Envoy and has been made possible in part by the National Endowment for the Humanities: Democracy demands wisdom. Local presentation of this exhibition is sponsored by the Rotary Club of Los Altos in celebration of its 75th anniversary and its work tackling global epidemics.