The Founding of the Historical Society

The San Clemente Historical Society was founded on        March 18, 1973, largely in response to concerns about the demolition of historic buildings that had begun in earnest all over town.  Of particular concern was the demolition of the Bartow, Rasmussen, and Ole Hanson Jr. mansions. These "great houses" were beautiful buildings, prominently located on cliffs overlooking the Pacific. A number of concerned citizens united to form the Historical Society to curtail the destruction of these precious historic resources. The story of their struggle is told in the San Clemente Journal article, “Saving the Past for the Future.” Read More