Scott, a Santa Monica resident and member of both sponsoring organizations, holds a Ph.D. from UCLA in American history. Her book provides a comprehensive look at the area’s past — beginning with the indigenous Gabrielinos who lived here before the European colonization and ending with an assessment of the city today. The text is complimented by 50 seldom-seen drawings and photographs.
In writing the book, Scott says, “I was fascinated by the way Santa Monica has been very self-consciously invented from the 19th century all the way to the present. I was also surprised by how many different ways Santa Monica has achieved fame over the last century or more. Time and again, this small city has grabbed national headlines for everything from aviation to bodybuilding, to movie star residents, to its unique political scene.”
After her presentation, Scott will sign books, which will be for sale. Proceeds will benefit the two hosting organizations.
For more information, call (310) 485-0399 or access Parking is available behind the museum off the alley and at Santa Monica Seafood on Colorado Avenue. The phone number at the museum is (310) 395-2290.
Both organizations are nonprofit. The Santa Monica Conservancy is dedicated to preserving Santa Monica’s cultural and architectural heritage. The Santa Monica Historical Society Museum collects, preserves, and documents the history, art and culture of the Santa Monica Bay area.
Originally published in the Santa Monica Daily Press print edition on April 5, 2005. Read the original PDF.