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The Sunnyvale Heritage Park Museum stands as a significant tribute to the early history of the area, showcasing the story of the Martin Murphy family, who played a pivotal role in founding Sunnyvale. The original Martin Murphy House, constructed in the 1850s, was a remarkable feat of craftsmanship and logistics. Since there were no local sawmills, the Murphys had the lumber milled in Bangor, Maine, and then shipped in pieces around Cape Horn to Sunnyvale, where it was reassembled using wooden pegs and leather straps. This house was the first wood-frame structure in Sunnyvale and symbolized the pioneering spirit of the region.
In 1958, the Sunnyvale Historical Society recognized the importance of this heritage by designating the site as a California State Historical Landmark. Unfortunately, the original house was demolished in 1961 due to extensive damage caused by a fire. To preserve this vital piece of local history, the Sunnyvale Heritage Park Museum was constructed as a faithful replica of the Martin Murphy House and officially opened in September 2008. This effort was made possible through public donations, as well as contributions from the State of California and the City of Sunnyvale.
The museum's main exhibit room features a stunning 60-foot mural depicting the history of Sunnyvale, providing visitors with a visual journey through the area's development. Adjacent to the museum, Heritage Park offers additional insights into the region's agricultural roots, including a Heritage Orchard of apricot trees and a barn with outdoor interpretive exhibits that highlight the rich farming history of the Santa Clara Valley.
In December 2018, the park underwent enhancements with the removal of a maintenance building and the creation of a new front entrance, which now hosts additional outdoor exhibits. These features collectively serve as a testament to the resilience and pioneering spirit of the early settlers, especially the contributions of the Martin Murphy family, whose legacy continues to be celebrated at this historic site.