Historic Folsom site launches campaign for new community learning center

Tucked into a quiet Folsom neighborhood, the Murer House and Gardens stands as both a treasured historic landmark and a vibrant community resource. Since 1997, the Murer House Foundation (MHF), a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, has preserved and operated the site on behalf of the City of Folsom – ensuring its legacy continues to serve current and future generations. Built in 1925 by Italian immigrant Giuseppe "Joe" Murer, the property reflects the rich Italian heritage that helped shape Folsom's early identity and continues today through its Sister City relationship with Pieve del Grappa, Italy. Recognized on the National Register of Historic Places in 2022, the site holds local and national significance. Today, the Murer House is far more than a preserved home; it's a dynamic center for cultural education and community engagement. Through Italian language and cooking classes, bocce tournaments, seasonal celebrations and hands-on garden programs, the foundation offers meaningful opportunities for residents to connect with history, culture and one another. However, as community interest continues to grow, so do the demands on the site. The current Learning Center – long the hub of classes and programming – can no longer adequately support the expanding needs of the community. At the same time, the foundation faces increasing operational and maintenance costs associated with preserving a historic property while delivering high-quality educational experiences. To meet these challenges and ensure long-term sustainability, the Murer House Foundation is launching a major capital campaign to build a new, state-of-the-art Learning Center. Architectural plans are already in place for a modern facility that will include expanded classroom space, a commercial kitchen for culinary instruction and improved accommodations for staff and volunteers. This new facility represents a critical investment – not only in infrastructure but in the future of cultural preservation, education and community life in Folsom. With enhanced space and resources, the foundation will be able to grow its programs, serve more participants and deepen its role as a regional destination for Italian culture and heritage. The Murer House experience extends beyond its classrooms. The surrounding gardens – home to century-old walnut, hazelnut, chestnut and fruit trees – reflect Murer's love of the land and continue to supply ingredients for cooking classes today. Seasonal plantings of Italian vegetables, herbs and flowers create a living connection between past and present while annual events such as Lavender Day, Camellia Day, bocce tournaments and cultural celebrations invite the public to engage with the site year-round. Volunteers play an essential role in sustaining this environment, contributing their time and expertise to maintain the gardens and support programming. Open to the public on the first Saturday of each month, the Murer House, museum and grounds offer an accessible and enriching experience for visitors of all ages. Now, the foundation is calling on the community to help carry this legacy forward. The success of the new Learning Center depends on broad community support – from individual donors and local businesses to participants who value the unique experiences the Murer House provides. Supporting this effort is more than a donation – it's an investment in preserving history, expanding educational opportunities and strengthening community connections for generations to come. FESTA & LEARNING CENTER FUNDRAISING DINNER What: Join the Murer House Foundation for a special evening celebrating Italian culture while supporting the construction of a new Learning Center. The event will feature dinner, raffles and a silent auction, with all proceeds benefiting this important community project. When: Thursday, June 25, 6 p.m. Where: Bacchus House, 1004 E. Bidwell, Folsom Tickets and information: https://themurerhouse.square.site/featured-items#CHEvgP Note: If you are unable to attend, please consider donating at https://murerhousefoundation.org/make-a-donation/ or if you prefer to pay by check or have questions, send an email to Infomurerhouse@gmail.com or call 916-423-9231.