Monrovia Historical Museum
The Monrovia Historical Museum occupies the 8,000 sq ft building that served as the lobby and locker rooms for the Monrovia Municipal Plunge in Recreation Park. The park was established in 1924 following a successful bond election to buy the 22 acre site. The idea of building a public pool in the park was popular. Construction of the pool and building, designed by local architect Harold B. Dunn in the Spanish Colonial Revival style, was completed in 1925. After more than 50 years, the pool needed major structural renovation due to cracking from earthquakes and age. It was decided to abandon the old pool in favor of a facility at Monrovia High School and the pool closed in 1983. The Monrovia Historical Museum Foundation secured a state grant, donations and contributions and worked with the City to renovate and repurpose the building. The museum opened in 1992.
Monrovia, Los Angeles County
Photographer: Andrew Schmidt