michaeld1004, I don't think that I would take that rifle to a gunsmith right away. At least not until I tried to track down a historical gun expert or a Winchester gun expert first. Gunsmiths are not necessarily the most knowledgable experts when it comes to the value of firearms and how to best protect your "historical investment" regarding this firearm.
My state has a gun collector's guild (association) of antique gun dealers and specialists in various gun specialties that I would be trusting to ask opinions from and be more confident that no harm would be done to the gun in any way shape or form that would dimish the gun's value along the way. These types of collectors and dealers are "usually" of high moral fiber and don't try to intentionally [or unintentionally] steer a person the wrong way since they have a lot of experience in the field and a reputation to protect.
I can't determine whether or not California has such a gun collector's association, but I did find an " Arms Collector's Committee":
For details regarding the California Rifle and Pistol Association ARMS COLLECTORS COMMITTEE, please contact:. Committee Chair Martin J. Miller Jr. ...
http://www.crpa.org/showpages.asp?pid=1037
Sometimes talking to someone on the phone can result in a personal referral to a trustworthy expert in your area who can further refer you to the "expert and trustworthy gunsmith" that you want.
People don't usually rise to positions of trust without being trustworthy, and if someone can't help you with a referral they will usually tell you.
I'd be concerned about going to the wrong gunsmith, you could end up regretting the decision especially if he diminishes the value of your gun. Don't rush into anything too quickly, at least not until you explore all your referral options first.
There's also this NRA affiliated association:
http://www.winchestercollector.org/index.shtml
They have a contact form to fill out to request information, and may even be able to refer you to a Winchester collector in your area.
The NRA state collector's association listing for CA didn't seem like it would be too helpful, but you never really know who you might find to receive a decent referral.
A firearms appraiser also might know the right gunsmith to see in your area, or talk to or visit an elite gunshop.
Maybe the location of one of these CA clubs is close enough to you to receive helpful advice if you make a phone inquiry to the right person:
http://www.nrafoundation.org/about/corporate/clubs.asp
The more people you talk to the better the chances that you won't go to the wrong gunsmith, protect yourself and your rifle.