Get all the latest Costa Mesa Historical Society News in one place!
Girl Scout Troop 1415 poses after presenting their proposal to paint the city’s fire hydrants red, white and blue.
As the nation marks its 250th birthday in 2026, Costa Mesa has its own story to tell about the last time America reached a milestone like this. Fifty years ago, as the country prepared to turn 200, this community didn't simply celebrate — it organized, it innovated, and it inspired a generation of young people to engage with their history in ways that left a lasting mark. The photos and memories that follow are a reminder of…
Segerstrom Center for the Arts Tour - 4.19.26
Sunday, April 19, 2026 | 2:00–4:00 pmMembers Only Event Join the Costa Mesa Historical Society for a special docent-led tour of the Segerstrom Center for the Arts, one of Orange County’s most celebrated cultural landmarks and a defining institution in Costa Mesa’s artistic legacy. Guided by knowledgeable Segerstrom Center docents, this exclusive behind-the-scenes experience offers rare insight into the history, architecture, and vision that shaped this world-class performing arts campus. Participants will gain a deeper appreciation for…
Henry Ernie Nishii, President, Historic Wintersburg Conservancy
Fresh from a major statewide historic designation, the Costa Mesa Historical Society is honored to present H. Ernie Nishii, President of the Historic Wintersburg Conservancy, for a timely and important speakers program. On January 2, 2026, Historic Wintersburg was officially listed on the California Register of Historical Resources, recognizing it as one of the most significant surviving sites associated with Japanese American history in Orange County. This rare designation affirms decades of community advocacy and places Historic…
Mikelle Fish - President, CMHS
For over 60 years, the Costa Mesa Historical Society has worked to protect the stories, photos, artifacts, and memories that define our city. Today, your support ensures that these treasures remain alive for future generations. ***NOTE: this Giving Season event goes through December 31st, 2025! Why Your Gift Matters: Digitize fragile photographs, maps, and newspapers Upgrade archival tools and technology (video camera, audio recorder, still camera for events) Maintain exhibits and preserve irreplaceable artifacts Support volunteer programs…
Gustavo Arellano, author of Orange County: A People’s Guide
Speakers Program & 2026 Board Installation Sunday, January 11, 2026 – 2:00- 4:00PM Norma Hertzog Community Center, Costa Mesa Celebrate the start of a milestone year! The Costa Mesa Historical Society is turning 60, and there has never been a more exciting time to be a member of the one and only society that matters in Costa Mesa. Join us as we kick off this landmark anniversary with a special edition of our Speakers Program and the…
Segerstrom Center Walking Tour, Costa Mesa, California
Experience the art and architecture of the Segerstrom Center for the Arts on a special outdoor walking tour led by two Center Docents from the Segerstrom Center for the Arts, alongside Council Member Arlis Reynolds. The Tour has been filled! If you want to be on Stand by List, please fill out the form! The tour begins on the south side of Segerstrom Center for the Arts Plaza overlooking the fountain, continues through the serene Noguchi Garden,…
Costa Mesa Historical Society is proud to partner with the Newport Beach Film Festival
Exciting news! The Costa Mesa Historical Society is proud to partner with the Newport Beach Film Festival for its 26th Anniversary Celebration — happening October 16–23, 2025! Join us in supporting the inspiring film “Dickens of Christmas” Directed by Gillian McKercher — a heartwarming story of creativity, community, and the spirit of the season. Get Your Tickets: Tap the link in our bio to choose your day, date & theatre — and use code CMHS25 for a…
🗳️ Costa Mesa Historical Society Board Elections – 2027 It’s election season at the Costa Mesa Historical Society! We invite members to help guide our mission of preserving and celebrating Costa Mesa’s rich history. 🔹 Open Board Positions 1st Vice President (Programs): Open 2nd Vice President (Membership): Open Secretary: Mari E. Page – Candidate Treasurer: Harla Wood – Candidate Director, Archives: Mary Ellen Goddard – Candidate Director, Adobe: Cindy Humphries – Candidate Director, SAAAB: Bob Palazzola –…
The Costa Mesa Historical Society was proud to welcome Fred McDowell as our featured speaker on August 31, 2025. His engaging presentation highlighted the rich history of the Costa Mesa Fire Department and the people who built it into what it is today. “We were so fortunate to host Fred McDowell just weeks before his retirement from 30 years of service with the Costa Mesa Fire Department. His program brought our city’s fire history to life, and…
Thank you for your donations to the Costa Mesa Historical Society
RANDOFF VIDAL ** ELIZABTH REFAKES ** ROBERT & MARI PALAZZOLA ** JOHN V. HUMPHREY* DAN & SHARON DEARING* BETSY J. CARLSON* CHERYL DONALSON * *under $100, **$100 or more, ***$500 or More, YOUR SUPPORT We do not receive funds from federal, state or local government, our only source of income is membership dues, gift shop sales and donations. We are always grateful for any donations. For monetary donations to Historical Society, please make out check or money…
