About Us
Preserving Dana Point History
Since 1987
The Dana Point Historical Society is a volunteer nonprofit organization established in 1987 to celebrate and preserve the history of Dana Point for current and future generations. We are a California Non-Profit Corporation and a Federal 501(c)(3) Tax-Exempt Organization. Tax ID# 33-0359288.
The Society by the Numbers
Our Story
A Community Organization
Rooted in Dana Point
From the hide droghers of the 1830s to the founding of the harbor, we preserve the stories that make this city unique.Volunteer led
The Dana Point Historical Society Board of Directors are volunteers — a dedicated group of community leaders committed to preserving the city's history.
Community driven
Our Volunteer Committee is a vibrant and diverse group of individuals dedicated to task forces covering events, marketing, fundraising, and community partnerships.
Civic partners
The DPHS works with other nonprofits and the City of Dana Point. Our collective efforts ensure the preservation and celebration of the city's unique sense of place.
Our City
Dana Point — A City With Deep Roots
Our Heritage
A documentary exploring the history of Dana Point and surrounding areas from 1900 is available through our film archive. The Society preserves the historic buildings and stories that give this community its unique character.Incorporated in 1989
Dana Point was incorporated in 1989 in the county of Orange. The city is named for Richard Henry Dana Jr., whose 1840 memoir Two Years Before the Mast chronicled this coastline.
A maritime heritage
The city seal features the Pilgrim tall ship and the Dana Point coastline, honoring the nautical history that defined this place long before it became a city.
A living legacy
The DPHS advocates for the historic buildings that contribute to the eclectic visual character of the community — reminders of Dana Point's rich and colorful past.
Board of Directors
Officers
Elected volunteer officers who lead the Dana Point Historical Society.
Marsha LaRusso
Gary Macrides Museum Director
Jeff Lander Membership
Bob Minty Programs
Heidi Hyde
Nancy Jenkins
Gary Prenovost
Joel Bishop
Volunteers
Appointed Committee Chairs
The committee chairs who lead our task forces and programs.
Keith Johannes
Grant Earl
Barbara Johannes
Joel Bishop
Elizabeth Bamattre
Judy Henderson Director Emeritus
Gary Macrides
Rocky Parker
James Proett
Kirsten Reynolds
Randy Roberts
Robin Valles
Max Brown
Find Us
Visit the Museum
33282 Golden Lantern St., Suite 104 Dana Point, CA 92629 Tuesdays 1–3 PM Thursdays 1–3 PM Saturdays 1–3 PM Closed on holidays and special event days. Group tours by appointment — $5 per person.
Phone: (949) 248-8121 Email: contact@danapointhistorical.org Membership inquiries: membership@danapointhistorical.org