The Olaf Wieghorst Museum
"When my time comes to put away my palette and unsaddle my pony for the last time, I hope my canvases will, in some small measure, add to the historical recording of an era: the cowboy and the Great American West." — Olaf Wieghorst
Olaf Wieghorst: An American Story
Born in 1899 in Viborg, Denmark, Olaf Wieghorst discovered a lifelong love of horses and the American West as a child. In 1918, he arrived in New York with just $1.25 and a few English words, eventually joining the U.S. Army and later becoming a ranch hand and a mounted police officer in New York City.
A self-taught artist, Olaf gained recognition from Grand Central Art Galleries and devoted his life to painting after moving to El Cajon Valley in 1945. His work captured the spirit of the West—cowboys, Native Americans, sweeping landscapes, and horses, including famous mounts like Gene Autry’s Champion and Roy Rogers’ Trigger. Over his career, Olaf sold thousands of paintings, appeared in two John Wayne films, and had works displayed in the White House.
The Olaf Wieghorst Museum
Founded by friends and family to honor Olaf’s life and art, the museum preserves his legacy in downtown El Cajon. Visitors can explore Olaf’s restored home, a southwestern botanical garden, and galleries featuring his artwork year-round, along with rotating exhibits celebrating Western history. Docent-led tours bring his story to life for all ages.
The museum celebrates Olaf’s vision: preserving the spirit of the Old West and the enduring legacy of the Dean of Western Painters.
Location
131 Rea Avenue
El Cajon CA 92020
Hours
Friday, Saturday & Sunday*
11:00am to 3:00pm
* The Museum is staffed by volunteers only. Please call in advance to confirm Museum is open.
Admission
Free, Memberships and Donations Welcomed
Contact Info
(619) 590-3431
www.WieghorstMuseum.org