Our Future

Partners for History

Building a Future for La Jolla's Past

The heart and soul of any community is its heritage, and La Jolla is no different. The La Jolla Historical Society is committed to preserving and celebrating the richness that makes this beautiful seaside community special to residents and visitors alike. By understanding La Jolla's past, we can make informed decisions for our community's future.

The Society currently resides in vintage cottages once part of the estate of Ellen Browning Scripps, the benefactress of many leading education and cultural institutions in La Jolla and greater San Diego. Our extensive archives are an integral community resource in great demand by residents, academics, city officials, businesses, and tourists. Yet, the proper care of and access to the archives is constrained by lack of space.

Fortunately, thanks to the generosity and support of the Revelle family, the Society has an opportunity to preserve the legacy of the Scripps' home and gardens as a historical resource for the community, while expanding programs desired by residents.

Our Partners for History Campaign will allow us to accomplish the following:

  • Renovation of Historic Wisteria Cottage and Grounds ~ $1,500,000

Campaign funds will preserve and renovate the grounds as a museum of La Jolla's history, providing a central information stop for residents and visitors.

  • Expansion of Archives, Exhibits &Community Programs ~ $500,000

During renovation, the cottages will be retrofitted for enhanced archival storage, complete with a Digital Library to provide greater online access for the community. A new public exhibition gallery within Wisteria Cottage will showcase special collections from our archives, as well as collaborative exhibitions from other local and national institutions such as the San Diego Historical Society, the Smithsonian Institution, and the National Preservation Trust.

Expanded hours of operation, monthly Downtown Historic Tours, and an Oral History Project will bring La Jolla's history alive for residents and visitors. A new gift shop and third-party rental program for Society grounds will provide future revenue streams to help support operations and programs.

Our restored facilities and gardens will become a premier community venue to learn about La Jolla's history and serve as a gathering place for both private and community events.

Please help us preserve La Jolla's legacy for the education and enjoyment of our community now and for future generations!

Call today to find out how you can help. (858) 459-5335.