Solano History Exploration Center

03/13/2026

10/28/2025

Join us at the Vacaville-Elmira Cemetery, Rain or Shine, on Saturday, November 15, at 2:00pm for a docent led Cemetery Walk honoring our Veterans.

07/23/2025

From River Dreams to Railroad Realities... Cordelia's Journey

Before freeways crossed Solano County, before the name Fairfield stretched across city maps, there was Cordelia.
Founded in the 1850s by visionary Robert Waterman and named after his beloved wife, Cordelia began as a riverside dream: a shipping port nestled near the slough, moving grain, hay, and even cobblestones to pave the streets of San Francisco.

For a time, it was called Bridgeport, a nod to Cordelia's Connecticut roots. But the U.S. Postal Service had other plans - and so the name Cordelia returned, and stayed. When the railroad bypassed the original townsite in 1868, the community shifted to meet it, physically moving closer to the tracks. Cordelia adapted. It survived. It grew.

Today, it’s one of Solano’s oldest communities—still standing, still proud, and still at the heart of where our region connects.

As we head into the weekend, take a moment to reflect on the story of a town built on love, resilience, and reinvention. From cobblestone streets to modern schools, Cordelia continues to shape Fairfield’s legacy.

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07/08/2025

Our condolences to the Day family. Former Council Member Day was an ardent supporter of local history.

The City of Suisun City is deeply saddened by the passing of former Suisun City Council member Jane Day.

Jane Day served our community as a council member for 36 years from 1986 to 2022 and acted as Mayor Pro Tem from 1990–1994, 1999–2001 and 2006–2010.

She made a lasting impact on Suisun City through her faithful service, running a Suisun City grocery store and working at the Travis Unified School District for 10 years. Our hearts are with the community as we grieve her passing.

07/05/2025

10/16/2024

A great opportunity for municipal planning professionals:

California Preservation Foundation

07/21/2024

Our condolences to the family and friends of Joe Neitzel, who passed away yesterday surrounded by those who loved him. Joe (right), a dedicated Native Son of the Golden West, unofficial Mayor of AT&T park, avid Giants and 49ers fan, and tireless advocate for preserving and sharing local history, will be remembered for his kindness, humor, and tenacity.

Joe was dedicated and instrumental to the Solano History Exploration Center We will continue our efforts to see its physical return to the community in his honor.
[Photo courtesy of Vacaville Heritage Council]

05/18/2024

For Preservation Month, Senior Program Officer Lisa Thompson explores why preservation matters and how Main Streets can celebrate and protect their historic assets.

01/26/2024

Suisun City, 1940s

11/23/2023

11/09/2023

Please sign and share for the Friends of the Solano County Archives efforts to reinstate the Solano County Historical Records Commission.

Reinstate the Solano County Historical Records Commission and Save the Historical Records!