What’s On
Scientific Art of Historic Preservation
September 26, 2026 - January 31, 2027
The Scientific Art of Historic Preservation explores the hidden processes behind saving historic places. Through material analysis, architectural investigation, conservation techniques, and stories from preservation specialists, the exhibition reveals how historic buildings act as physical archives of craftsmanship, trade, design, and community life.
Using Wisteria Cottage alongside regional and national examples, the exhibition invites visitors to see preservation not simply as restoration, but as discovery: peeling back layers of paint, wood, plaster, and history to better understand the people and ideas that shaped the built environment.
Curated by Heather Crane, AIA
Paint sample of Wisteria Cottage.
early la jolla Music
February 20 - June 13, 2027
When Anna Held founded the Green Dragon Colony in 1894, she helped establish La Jolla as a vibrant musical community. A pianist and teacher, Held hosted salons and concerts that brought together local musicians and visiting artists. Even before La Jolla had reliable running water, it had a Philharmonic Society, cantatas, and frequent live performances.
Much of this musical culture was organized and sustained by women. Through home musicales, operettas, concerts, lectures, and school programs, residents created music together and built connections across the community. With support from figures such as Ellen Browning Scripps, music became central to La Jolla’s emerging identity.
La Jolla’s musical culture did not appear after the town became prosperous, established, or culturally prestigious. Music was part of what produced the community in the first place, and music was one important way La Jolla gained a distinctive identity.
Curated by Katina Mitchell
Anna Held playing the piano in the Green Dragon Colony. Photo from the Collection of the Museum of History and Culture La Jolla.