Twenty Mule Team Museum
The Twenty Mule Team Museum is dedicated to preserving the history of Boron and the borax mining era that shaped the region. Visitors can explore exhibits, artifacts, and stories from Death Valley’s mining days and the legendary twenty mule teams.
We are a community-run museum open daily from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM. Closed on Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year's Day.
Address: 26962 Twenty Mule Team Road, Boron, CA 93516
Phone: (760) 762-5810
Our Mission
To collect and preserve borax mining history, artifacts, and documents from Boron and Death Valley. We aim to educate, inspire, and support both students and researchers interested in this unique chapter of American history.
History of the Twenty Mule Team
In 1881, prospector Aaron Winters discovered borax crystals in Death Valley. He sold the site to William T. Coleman who developed Harmony Borax Works and began processing borax on a large scale.
To transport the mineral to the Mojave railhead, a 165-mile journey, Coleman’s team devised the now-famous Twenty Mule Team wagons. These massive wagons hauled 36 tons of ore, water, and supplies through harsh desert terrain. From 1883 to 1889, over 20 million pounds of borax were moved this way.
Museum Beginnings
In the 1970s, Boron residents worked together to create the museum by purchasing land and converting a former staff house donated by U.S. Borax. Volunteers and even local prison crews helped renovate the building. The museum officially opened on August 4, 1984.
Exhibits
Explore authentic indoor and outdoor exhibits that show how Boron’s early miners and families lived, worked, and built a community around the borax industry.
1930s kitchen display with original utensils from Pacific Coast Borax cabins
1930s beauty shop with vintage grooming tools
Original horse-drawn fire wagon from Boron Volunteer Fire Department
Drill and granite rock display from 1955–1960 contests
Original ore bucket from Western Borax Mine
Amargo outdoor theater used for parades and community events
Ulexite-filled ore cart
Fresno scrapper used to collect borax in Death Valley
Useful Links
Check out recommended resources, organizations, and related museums to dive deeper into the fascinating world of borax and desert mining.
Accessible & Affordable Pet Care for a Healthier Community
Find Low-Cost Spay & Neuter Services in Kern County
Looking for affordable spay and neuter services in Kern County? We've compiled a list of trusted low-cost providers to help pet owners access essential veterinary care without financial burden. By choosing spay and neuter services, you're contributing to a healthier pet population and reducing overpopulation in our community.
EKCCF Introduces the BACK Initiative
EKCCF is done waiting for change. That’s why we’re launching the Boron Anchor for Community Knowledge (BACK) Initiative, a transformative program designed to tackle Boron’s most urgent challenges head-on.
The BACK Initiative pairs Universal Basic Income (UBI) with Individual Development Accounts (IDAs) to provide immediate relief and long-term economic opportunities. Here’s how it works:
UBI Component: Monthly cash assistance to stabilize struggling families.
IDA Component: Matched savings accounts to help residents invest in homeownership, small businesses, or education.
The BACK Initiative is the first step toward a future where Boron residents no longer have to choose between basic needs and long-term goals.
Key Programs
Lifting Up Our Community
The East Kern County Community Foundation is more than an organization—we are your neighbors, advocates, and partners in creating lasting change.
Our mission is to transform Boron into a thriving, sustainable community by addressing critical issues like:
Clean Water & Sewer Access
Restoring water systems so every home has access to clean, safe water.
Connecting homes and businesses to modern, efficient sewer systems.
Educating the community about sustainable water use for future generations.
Affordable Housing Development
Creating temporary housing solutions for local workers and families.
Revitalizing unused properties into modern, affordable housing.
Partnering with developers to build vibrant, sustainable neighborhoods.
Education & Workforce Training
Equipping schools with the tools they need—like computers and internet access.
Developing workforce programs that teach the skills needed for local jobs.
Supporting lifelong learning opportunities for adults and youth alike.
Safety & Animal Welfare
Collaborating with law enforcement and residents to keep neighborhoods safe.
Expanding programs like Trap-Neuter-Return to care for community animals.
Planning for a community animal shelter to support humane solutions.
Food Security & Health Access
Addressing food deserts by increasing access to fresh, healthy groceries.
Expanding telehealth options so residents can get the care they need.
Developing community gardens for local food production and education.
Visit Us
Plan Your Trip to Boron
We’re easy to find off Highway 58 and offer free entry. Whether you're coming from Mojave or Barstow, you’re just a short drive away from history.
Open Daily: 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM
Closed: Thanksgiving, Christmas, New Year's Day
Directions:
From Barstow: Head west on Highway 58 for 38 miles. Exit Boron Avenue, turn left, continue 1 mile to the museum.
From Mojave: Head east on Highway 58 for 30 miles. Exit Boron Avenue, turn right, continue 1 mile to the museum.
Join Us in Making a Difference!
The Kitty Clippers Program relies on the dedication and generosity of our community. You can help us achieve even greater impact by:
Volunteering: Sign up to join our team of compassionate volunteers.
Donating: Your contributions help fund spay/neuter procedures, microchipping, and other essential services.
Partnering: Collaborate with us to expand our reach and impact.
Real People. Real Change.
See How the B.A.C.K. Initiative is Transforming Lives
Hear from those weʼve helped and discover the impact of the B.A.C.K. Initiative on real lives in our community.
"Stability and Confidence for My Family"
"The B.A.C.K. Initiative changed my life. The support helped me find stability and confidence for my family’s future!"
- Maria T.
"Saving for My Dreams"
"Thanks to the B.A.C.K. Initiative, I learned to manage my money better and save for my dreams. It’s life-changing!"
- James R.
"A Better Future for Boron"
"I’ve lived in Boron my whole life and was worried about our future. The B.A.C.K. Initiative is the boost our town needed. It’s inspiring to see businesses growing and families succeeding."
- Sandra L.
Be a Part of the Change You Want to See
How You Can Help Us Build a Better Boron
The BACK program thrives on the collective effort of compassionate individuals and organizations like you. Here’s how you can support our mission and help transform Boron into a thriving community:
💰 Donate: Empower Our Vision
Your donations directly fund programs that uplift residents, revitalize local businesses, and improve Boron’s infrastructure. Every contribution, big or small, makes a meaningful impact.
🤝 Volunteer: Share Your Time and Talent
Join our team of passionate volunteers to help make a difference on the ground. Whether it’s assisting with community events, mentoring local businesses, or providing educational workshops, your time and skills are invaluable.
📢 Share Your Expertise: Partner With Us
Do you have a service or resource that can support our initiative? From financial education and business mentorship to infrastructure improvements, your expertise can help us achieve our goals. Tell us how you can contribute!
Founder of The East Kern County Community Foundation
Megan Pater
Ready to change your life? Reach out today to learn more about how the B.A.C.K. Initiative can support you and your future!
1-760-920-1379