Founding History - A Museum is Born
In 1986, three years after the closure of the Monrovia Municipal Plunge, the City of Monrovia celebrated its centennial anniversary. As an outgrowth of this celebration, a group of residents established The Monrovia Historical Museum Foundation (MHM). The MHM worked with the City to occupy the Municipal Plunge building with plans for an Historic Museum. To Monrovia’s good fortune, the City agreed and the building did not become just a pleasant memory. The MHM was able to qualify for a $50,000 California State Grant that enabled the Foundation to start the renovation of the building. A rebirth of the building began with interior and exterior renovations that retained the important architectural features of the original building. The building’s 8,000 square feet of indoor space includes the East and West wings, which house both permanent and temporary displays, a Lobby, and a kitchen that is used for the catering of special events. The rear Garden Area is creatively landscaped around a fountain and courtyard for outdoor gatherings and social events. The Monrovia Historical Museum is a place for all people of all ages to experience history as both a spectator and as a participant. A 50-year, renewable lease was granted by the City of Monrovia so that the Monrovia Historical Museum Foundation could operate the Museum. Through pledge donations, cash, and in-kind contributions, the Museum was able to open debt-free.
The Museum currently has over 10,000 artifacts, many of which are on display.
The East wing introduces Museum visitors to the Monroe Family and the town they helped establish, the famous Pottenger Sanatorium that helped the medical world find cures for breathing disorders, and a Pacific Electric trolley system exhibit. Also included in this wing are reconstructions of a turn of the century kitchen and parlor, a 1907 classroom tribute to Monrovia's early grade schools, and an interactive Police Department exhibit that children enjoy.
The West wing houses the Museum's Historic Collections including a Natural History section that showcases interesting and unusual creatures and oddities seldom seen in public displays. There is also a great display of the telephone technology of the past century, and an exhibit dedicated to our fighting men and women.
Continuing support is appreciated and needed for the museum to remain financially solvent. We welcome all contributions and encourage you to join with others and preserving the rich history and community spirit by making a donation today. Museums keep history alive and provide an essential educational resource. All contributions are tax-deductible and $100.00 + contributors will be recognized on the Museum's Donor Tree that is prominently displayed on the west wall of the Museum Lobby.
The West wing houses the Museum's Historic Collections including a Natural History section that showcases interesting and unusual creatures and oddities seldom seen in public displays. There is also a great display of the telephone technology of the past century, and an exhibit dedicated to our fighting men and women.
Continuing support is appreciated and needed for the museum to remain financially solvent. We welcome all contributions and encourage you to join with others and preserving the rich history and community spirit by making a donation today. Museums keep history alive and provide an essential educational resource. All contributions are tax-deductible and $100.00 + contributors will be recognized on the Museum's Donor Tree that is prominently displayed on the west wall of the Museum Lobby.