San Diego History Center

The San Diego History Center is a nonprofit organization dedicated to preserving and sharing the history of San Diego. Founded in 1928 by George W. Marston, the center initially operated as the San Diego Historical Society and was housed in the Junípero Serra Museum on Presidio Hill[1].

History and Development

The San Diego Historical Society moved its collections and research library to the Casa de Balboa building in Balboa Park in 1982, maintaining the Serra Museum as an auxiliary site. The organization changed its name to the San Diego History Center in 2010, reflecting its broader mission and new location[1]. Since its inception, the center has been at the forefront of historical research and education in San Diego.

Collections and Exhibitions

The San Diego History Center is known for its extensive collections, which include:

• Historic Clothing and Textile Collection: Featuring over 7,000 items from the late 18th century to the present, this collection provides a comprehensive view of dress history[1].
• San Diego Fine Art Collection: This collection is notable for its early 20th-century plein air paintings by artists such as Maurice Braun, Alfred Mitchell, and Belle Baranceanu[1].
• Document Archives: The center maintains the region’s largest collection of historical materials, comprising over 45 million documents, including public records, books, maps, and manuscripts[1].
• Photograph Collection: With approximately 2.5 million photographs, it is one of the largest regional photography collections in the United States. It includes significant images from the Union Title & Trust Insurance Company, the Edward H. Davis Collection of Indian Photographs, and the Norman Baynard Collection documenting the African-American community of Logan Heights[1].

Educational and Community Programs

The center offers a variety of educational programs for children, families, and adults, engaging visitors with San Diego's rich history through dynamic exhibitions and interactive experiences. These programs include lectures, workshops, and community events[2][3]. Since 1955, the History Center has published the Journal of San Diego History in collaboration with the University of San Diego, providing a scholarly platform for historical research[1].

Affiliations and Outreach

In 2013, the San Diego History Center became a Smithsonian Affiliate, further expanding its educational and cultural reach[1]. The center also supports virtual learning initiatives and digital exhibitions, such as the "Missing Pieces" project focusing on the Black San Diego community's history[4].

Impact and Community Engagement

The San Diego History Center plays a pivotal role in promoting awareness and appreciation of San Diego's diverse history among both locals and visitors. Its accessible location in Balboa Park, combined with free parking and amenities, makes it a popular cultural destination for people of all ages[3][4].