Gilbert Historical Museum | Gilbert

The Gilbert Historical Museum, currently operating under the name HD SOUTH – Home of the Gilbert Historical Museum, is a cornerstone cultural institution located at 10 South Gilbert Road in Gilbert, Arizona. It stands as both a historical landmark and a vibrant community center that preserves and celebrates the rich heritage of Gilbert while fostering arts, culture, and community engagement.

Historical Significance and Building

The museum is housed in the oldest surviving structure in Gilbert, originally constructed in 1913 as the Gilbert Elementary School. This historic building is listed on the National Register of Historic Places, highlighting its architectural and cultural importance. After the school closed, the Gilbert Historical Society acquired the property in the 1980s and transformed it into a museum dedicated to preserving the town’s history.

In 2017, the museum rebranded as HD SOUTH to reflect its expanded mission that goes beyond history, encompassing arts and cultural programming to serve the wider community.

Exhibits and Collections

HD SOUTH offers a comprehensive range of exhibits that explore Gilbert’s evolution from a small agricultural town to a thriving modern community. The exhibits are designed to engage visitors with tangible artifacts and immersive storytelling:

Home Life Exhibit: Showcases everyday items from early to mid-20th century Gilbert, such as vintage clothing, household objects, antique telephones, and furniture, providing insight into the lifestyle of past generations.

Generations Exhibit: Focuses on the legacy of Gilbert’s founding families, including artifacts and stories contributed by their descendants. It also highlights the town’s early churches, reflecting the social and spiritual fabric of the community.

Farming Exhibit: Celebrates Gilbert’s agricultural roots, once known as the "Hay Shipping Capital of the World." This exhibit features farming implements, blacksmith tools, and equipment that illustrate the labor and innovation behind the town’s farming economy.

School & Community Exhibit: Recreates an early 20th-century classroom, giving visitors a glimpse into historical education methods and community development as Gilbert grew from fewer than 1,000 residents to over 280,000.

Town Exhibit: Tells the story of Gilbert’s founding by land speculator William M. Gilbert and explores how the railroad was pivotal to the town’s growth. A detailed model train exhibit helps visualize this history.

Live Quilting Bee: A unique feature where community volunteers demonstrate traditional quilting techniques, maintaining a living craft tradition. Visitors can purchase completed quilts to support museum activities.

Educational Programs and Events

HD SOUTH offers a robust calendar of events and educational programs tailored to all ages, strengthening community ties and promoting historical awareness:

Annual Art of Quilting Show: Displays more than 100 quilts ranging from historic to contemporary designs, providing an artistic lens on local heritage and craftsmanship.

Memorial Day Service: A solemn event honoring veterans, featuring flag ceremonies, wreath presentations, and guest speakers who reflect on service and sacrifice.

Holiday Celebrations: Seasonal events that foster community spirit and cultural enrichment, including music, art, and festive activities.

Beyond these, HD SOUTH hosts workshops, lectures, and arts programs spanning literature, history, science, and wellness, making it a multidisciplinary cultural hub.

Visitor Information

Location: Situated in the heart of Gilbert’s Heritage District at 10 South Gilbert Road, the museum is accessible and centrally located for residents and tourists.

Hours of Operation: Open Tuesday through Saturday, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., and closed on Sundays, Mondays, and holidays.

Admission Fees: Affordable pricing structured to encourage family visits:

Adults: $6

Seniors (60+): $5

Children (5-12 years): $3

Children under 5: Free

Facilities and Community Role

The museum building itself is a preserved historic structure, providing an authentic atmosphere for experiencing Gilbert’s past. HD SOUTH not only serves as a museum but also as a gathering place for cultural exchange and community programming. Its emphasis on both preservation and active engagement makes it a vital resource in Gilbert’s cultural landscape.

By integrating historical exhibits with arts and educational programs, HD SOUTH bridges the past with the present, inviting visitors to connect deeply with the town’s roots and its ongoing story.

Contact and Additional Details

Phone: (480) 926-1577

The Gilbert Historical Museum (HD SOUTH) is a rich repository of local heritage and a dynamic center for community arts and culture, making it an essential destination for anyone interested in the story of Gilbert, Arizona.