The primary mission of the Monterey History & Art Association is to help preserve and share histories and the diverse legacies of people, stories, and places that continue to shape Monterey and the surrounding areas.
Monterey History & Art at the Stanton Center is not only a museum that exhibits works of art and historical artifacts of the Monterey area for visitors to view, but also has a theatre for local organizations to rent as well as space to accommodate dinners. The HVAC system is necessary to preserve the art and artifacts at a consistent temperature and protect against the damp environment caused by fog. The HVAC is also necessary to provide guests with a comfortable setting to enjoy the space.
Monterey History & Art Association impacts all of Monterey County and beyond. Located at 5 Custom House Plaza, the Stanton Center is open to the public. Tourists and local residents of all ages are welcome. Exhibits offer a range topics that appeal to many. Currently the Italian Heritage Society has an exhibit on fishing in the Monterey Bay. An exhibit in partnership with the Steinbeck Center in Salinas offers "Steinbeck in Monterey". The permanent collection includes works by Armin Hansen, Paul Whitman, Emil Norman, and Jo Mora. Exhibits are changed regularly to provide new topics. Watercolors of Kip Stewart was recently added. In addition to the Stanton Center, MHAA hosts La Merienda each June and developed the Path of History that takes visitors to historical locations throughout Monterey. The Mayo Hayes O'Donnell Library is a research library open to the public that provides historical resources.
During the last few years, I have witnessed MHAA returning to its glory years of showcasing the expansive cultural history of Monterey at the Stanton Center and beyond. From acquiring the Jo Mora archive, to displaying a significant mural by Emile Norman, to celebrating and collaborating with the National Steinbeck Center and the Italian Heritage Society among other organizations, and restoring its Doud House property, to name just some of its current features, the organization is positively reestablishing its place as a cornerstone in the community. Peter Hiller - Jo Mora Consultant
- Peter Hiller, Carmel
