Press / Media In the News!

Museum Founding
1975

The Santa Monica History Museum was founded under the “Historical Activities Committee” of Santa Monica’s Centennial Celebration in 1975 and by a public poll. Its name at that time was the Santa Monica Historical Society and it was designated as the official collector and preserver of the history, art, and culture of the Santa Monica Bay Area. Former Mayor Clo Hoover, the first woman mayor of Santa Monica, was elected the first president.

Museum Name Change
2010

At its founding, the Museum was called Santa Monica Historical Society. As part of the relocation to its new permanent location, the museum board thought a new, shorter name would be appropriate, thus it became known as the Santa Monica History Museum.

A name change had been in the works for several months and with a new home now under construction, board members felt the time was right to go from the Santa Monica Historical Society Museum to the much shorter Santa Monica Museum
– Louise Gabriel

Opening Date and Locations

1988 – Temporary location on Third Street Promenade and Colorado Avenue

1994 – 2009:  Location on 1539 Euclid Street, leased from Family Services of Santa Monica

March 2009 – Santa Monica Historical Society Museum begins construction at new permanent location, 1350 7th Street, next to the Santa Monica Public Library. Approximately $1.3 million was raised with an estimated cost of approximately $2.3 million. The museum space is provided by City Hall at no rent. Approximate space of 5,000 square feet.

October 24, 2010 – The Santa Monica History Museum opens at its new permanent location

Exhibitions and Features

There are six permanent exhibition rooms and an open area for the main exhibition, which rotates multiple times a year. There are several interactive exhibits, historical objects and photos on display and a research library.

Hours, Admissions, Memberships and Volunteers

The Museum is open to the public Thursday through Sunday and is free, with a suggested donation of $5 for adults. Veterans, active-duty military, members and children under 12 are always free.

Membership benefits include free access, discounts in the Gift Shop, invitations to special events and much more.

Volunteers help keep the Museum running and are a great support during events.

Board of Directors

The Board of Directors guide the museum toward reaching its vision and goals. It manages the affairs of the museum and includes several members representing local businesses, organizations, and private industry.

Mission & Community Involvement

The Santa Monica History Museum’s mission is to collect, preserve and share the history and culture of Santa Monica for generations to come. The Santa Monica History Museum is the steward of the rich history of the Santa Monica Bay area. We are committed to enriching our community by providing public access to our extensive collection with interpretive exhibitions, public programs, community partnerships and through archival and research services.