Capitola Museum curator Deborah Osterberg updates on visitor growth and new exhibits

The Capitola City Council meeting on June 12, 2025, highlighted significant developments at the Capitola Museum, showcasing its growth and community engagement over the past four years. Deborah Osterberg, the museum curator, presented an enthusiastic update on the museum's activities, emphasizing its role as a cultural hub for residents and visitors alike.

Osterberg reported a remarkable rebound in visitor numbers following the pandemic, with attendance rising from fewer than 100 in 2020 to over 10,000 in recent years. This surge reflects the museum's efforts to enhance its offerings, including a current exhibit titled "The Naughty Surf," which explores the evolution of beach fashion from the 1860s to the 1960s. The museum is open three days a week, relying heavily on a dedicated team of 45 volunteers who contributed 600 hours of service last year.

Key improvements have been made under Osterberg's leadership, including the introduction of a local indigenous peoples acknowledgment, new permanent exhibits, and a native plant garden developed as part of an Eagle Scout project. The museum has also embraced technology, launching a YouTube channel that has garnered over 100,000 views and expanding its social media presence significantly.

In addition to the museum's updates, the council discussed the importance of youth involvement in local governance. Plans are underway to appoint a new youth liaison to ensure that young voices are represented in city matters.

The meeting underscored the Capitola Museum's vital role in preserving local history and fostering community connections, while also addressing the need for ongoing youth engagement in city affairs. As the museum continues to evolve, it remains a cornerstone of Capitola's cultural landscape, inviting residents to explore and celebrate their shared heritage.