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The museum building is an outstanding example of modern design. Opened in 1969, it is composed of reinforced concrete and consists of three levels of tiered terraces. To soften the angularity, roof gardens have been planted, accented with statuary.

On the first level the Hall of Ecology features “A Walk Across California,” including a diorama of a Sacramento delta marsh showing fish, bird, and insect life, and another of a mountain lion and its prey, demonstrating nature’s food chain.

The Cowell Hall of California History on the second level traces early human history in the state, documented by basketry, stone tools, clothing, and rituals.

A 17th-century icon of St Peter is just one remnant of the Spanish Mission years. You’ll also find early colonial tools, and a section of adobe wall.

“Immigrants and Settlers” and “Adventurers and Goldseekers” chronicle the lives of those who came to California from all over the world in the 19th century, hoping to strike it rich. You’ll see gold prospecting tools, and a 5-oz (142-g) gold nugget.

A collection of objects that pertain to the 1906 earthquake are on display here, including porcelain cups and saucers fused by the heat of the fire that destroyed so much of the city.

“Seekers, Innovators and Achievers” celebrates the “California Dream,” in which the automobile played so large a part in the postwar boom. A drive-in restaurant sign, jukebox, and gleaming hot-rod capture the feel of the 1950s.

The third level is devoted to the Gallery of California Art, featuring works by artists who have studied, lived, and worked here. Included are works by 19th-century landscape painters, California Impressionists, members of the Bay Area Figurative movement, and later works by the likes of David Hockney.

The Gallery of California Art also has a fine collection of the work of California photographers, including Ansel Adams and Edward Weston.

The largest collection of decorative work, including murals and furniture, by California Arts and Crafts practitioners Arthur and Lucia Kleinhaus Mathews.