Online Exhibitions

Online exhibitions are part of our mission to increase public access to Santa Monica Bay history

A City Is Born

Santa Monica 150

In July of 1875, the first land lots in the new City of Santa Monica were auctioned off. As Santa Monica meets its sesquicentennial year, we take a look back at her roots.

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Route 66

Hiding In Plain Sight

Route 66 has a special resonance in Santa Monica history, as the road ends at the intersection of Lincoln and Olympic Boulevards. Our exhibition explores the legacy of “the end of the trail” in Santa Monica, as well as the role that famous local figures like Will Rogers played in promoting Route 66.

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The History of Muscle Beach

The physical fitness boom

Muscle Beach refers to the original Santa Monica location of the birthplace of the physical fitness boom. Located on the south side of the Santa Monica Pier, it began in 1934 with predominantly gymnastics activities. Muscle Beach in Venice is the contemporary title of the outdoor weightlifting platform constructed in Venice, California, 18 years after Muscle Beach was established.

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The History of the Miramar

A symbol of hospitality

For generations, the Miramar along Ocean Ave. has been a symbol of hospitality extended to Santa Monica’s visitors. Watch and enjoy as our Archivist examines the history of the Miramar.

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All is Possible:

Women's Suffrage in California

To mark the centennial of the ratification of the 19th Amendment, which granted women in America the right to vote, we explore the history of the local, state, and national suffrage movements. Experience photographs and artifacts from local women’s clubs along with contemporary illustrations from publications such as Puch.

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Pleasure Pier Exhibition Tour

Brock on the Block

For generations, the Miramar along Ocean Ave. has been a symbol of hospitality extended to Santa Monica’s visitors. Watch and enjoy as our Archivist examines the history of the Miramar.

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