Celebrating Santa Monica's 150th Anniversary
Herstory:Trailblazers
On the 150th anniversary of the establishment of the City of Santa Monica (1875), we remember the groundbreaking women, the trailblazers of Santa Monica.
They shaped and were shaped by the world they lived in – one in which cultural, legal, formal, and informal sexism were living forces.
They challenged restrictions placed on women based on race, origin, and sexual orientation, continuing the work of those who came before and paving a path for those who came after.
They were the first and often, though not always, the only women in the room, but they created spaces and places for other women, their communities, and the broader Santa Monica community.
Anna May Wong, the first Chinese American movie star, signs up for the Civil Defense voluntary organization guarding the home front during World War II.
SMHM Bill Beebe Collection (3.2.2644) December 1942
Herstory is made possible through the generous support of the Santa Monica Legacy Fund for Women and Girls. Collaborating with the Santa Monica History Museum to amplify the commitment to preserving and celebrating the contributions of women in the Santa Monica Bay Area by showcasing trailblazers in philanthropy, business, activism, sports, and the arts, the exhibit ensures their legacies are recognized and continue to inspire future generations.
Curated by: Isabel Gendler
Exhibition graphics: Maniyah Goodwin
About SMHM:
Since 1975, the Santa Monica History Museum has been dedicated to sharing the rich and diverse history of the Santa Monica Bay Area. Located in the heart of Santa Monica, the museum serves as a dynamic space for residents and visitors to connect with the city’s unique cultural heritage. With a commitment to community engagement, the museum offers access to compelling exhibitions, innovative programming, events, hands-on workshops, pop-up exhibitions, research services, and an expansive image archive.
Location: 1350 7th Street, Santa Monica, California 90401
