Willow Glen was first inhabited by the Chukchansi Indians, and grinding holes and other artifacts indicate they have lived in this area since prehistoric times. In 1870 a stage road was built, and in 1897 John McGinity homesteaded at Willow Glen. An adobe way station was built, along with a blacksmith shop and a saloon to serve travelers. In the 1930s Highway 41 was completed, the saloon was moved down to the new road, and a gas station was added. After many owners, Hazel A. Kennedy purchased the property and built the barn using lumber that came down the flume from Sugar Pine. In 1991 the Coarsegold Historical Society purchased the property, and the museum was established with the adobe, the Kennedy barn, and the Picayune School. The adobe and Picayune School are listed on the California Register of Historical Resources.