Our Mission

Our mission is to preserve and promote the heritage of San Clemente. We seek to unite all persons who are interested in the historical and cultural aspects of San Clemente in order to foster greater community appreciation and local identity. And we work to present the Society’s views to the appropriate governmental agencies regarding proposed major developments and legislative action affecting our historical environment.

Our History

The San Clemente Historical Society was founded in 1973 in response to concerns about the demolition of historic buildings that had begun in earnest all over town. Of particular concern were the Bartow, Rasmussen, and Ole Hanson Jr. mansions, beautiful Spanish style buildings that were prominently located on the cliffs overlooking the Pacific. A group of concerned citizens united to form the Historical Society to curtail the destruction of these precious resources. Their story is told in the San Clemente Journal article, "Saving the Past for the Future." Since then, we have expanded our membership and our efforts across a variety of initiatives to preserve and promote the heritage of San Clemente.

Leadership

Our Board of Directors is elected by our membership at an Annual Meeting. Committee Chairs are appointed by the Board of Directors. Please let us know if you are interested in becoming a chair or board member.

President - Katie Potts
Vice President - Jim Hamilton
Secretary - Mary Ann Comes
Treasurer - Marilyn Wigglesworth
At Large - Diana Hardeman, Carolyn Kipper, Larry Culbertson, Suzi Klickstein

The San Clemente Historical Society logo is derived from the original logo of the Old Hanson Organization, the real estate sales company that Ole Hanson formed while developing the town. Ole Hanson gave his top sales people gem-encrusted rings with bearing the logo. The logo, a derivation of a Spanish style coat of arms, embodies his commitment to creating a Spanish Village by the Sea, where all original buildings were required to be in the same Spanish revival style with white stucco walls and red tile roofs. Learn more about San Clemente’s original buildings and structures.

Current Initiatives