Novato History Museum’s Future Home Takes Shape at Historic Scott House

NOVATO, Marin County — October 31, 2026. Novato’s historic Scott House at 917 Sherman Avenue is being prepared as the future home of the Novato History Museum. City officials and supporters held a groundbreaking ceremony on October 20, 2026, marking the start of a renovation effort intended to bring local historical exhibits and community activities into the Civic Center area.

What is the plan for Scott House?

In an official City of Novato announcement, the municipality said the renovated house would provide more space for exhibits, talks, meetings and community events. The announcement describes preservation of the building’s historic character alongside improvements needed for public cultural use.

Who owns and operates the property?

The city says it will retain ownership of Scott House, while the volunteer-led Novato Historical Guild will manage the museum’s daily operations under its partnership with the city. The city also reports that the Guild raised more than $3 million from donors to support the project and agreed to raise the funds needed for the relocation. An updated operating agreement is intended to support museum operations at the new site for 50 years.

What has—and has not—happened?

A groundbreaking signals that a project has moved beyond discussion, but it does not establish that the museum has opened at 917 Sherman Avenue, that all exhibits are installed or that visitors can enter for regular museum hours. The city announcement reviewed for this story does not provide a confirmed public opening date.

Why it matters to Novato

A local history museum can preserve photographs, objects, documents and stories that might otherwise become difficult to access. The move could also create space for educational programs and public gatherings in an established civic setting. Residents interested in donating materials or volunteering should seek instructions from the museum and Guild rather than drop objects off at an active construction site.

For progress and opening announcements, monitor the City of Novato website and information issued by the Novato Historical Guild.

Source: City of Novato official Scott House groundbreaking announcement, posted following the October 20, 2026 ceremony. Opening dates are not independently confirmed.

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