February 22, 2010

Los Voluntarios Historic Preservation Committee

 
The Los Voluntarios  Historic Preservation Committee is a special volunteer group at the Arboretum responsible for maintaining our historic buildings. They also host our two annual public tours of the Queen Anne Cottage on Mother’s Day and Christmas. Every year the group decorates the Cottage for Christmas and they make Christmas wreaths for sale, the proceeds are used to help with maintenance and conservation of the historic buildings.
 Currently led by Marsha Perez and Beverly Street, the Historic Preservation Committee is indispensable. Recently, a failing smoke detector resulted in a visit by the Arcadia Fire Department who commented favorably on the standard of cleanliness inside the Queen Anne Cottage. Having subsequently visited them at the Baldwin Avenue station, I can attest to their very high standards in regard to cleanliness so this was quite a compliment coming from the Firemen!
 For many years, retired Curator Sandy Snider worked with the group and continues to volunteer with them even in retirement. The Arboretum owes a debt of gratitude to the group. A number of the members also volunteer in other capacities at the Arboretum in addition to their work with the committee.
 The members have often spoken to me about the uniqueness of our historic resources, their beauty and tell me about the ways that they have enriched their lives. Thanks to their work, our historic resources will continue to enrich the lives of the local community as well as visitors in Los Angeles County and from all over the world.
 
Mitchell Hearns Bishop
Curator, Historic Collections
February, 2010