The Santa Monica History Museum. is a “Santa Monica treasure.” It was founded in 1975 as 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. The society’s historical collection grew tremendously during the first ten years with artifacts, memorabilia, and photos donated by descendants of land grantees and pioneers who were living at that time. After securing the necessary funding, the Santa Monica History Museum was founded in 1988.  Relocated several times, it ow has a permanent home on the campus of the Santa Monica Main Library

With over six hundred thousand rare photographs, the Museum has one of the largest collections in Southern California. The museum serves people of all ages and is handicap-accessible and offers tours, exhibits, special events, lectures, children’s workshops and research services. Also offered are free docent‐led tours to school classrooms and youth groups.

You can become a member or volunteer for projects including  Visitor services, Photo digitization, Administrative support, Research, Special events, and much more!