RBHS Needs Enthusiastic Volunteers

By Deborah Jackson
      RBHS President
      The Redondo Beach Historical Society was incorporated in October 1987, however, a group of citizens had met informally to discuss local historical issues prior to obtaining official non-profit status. The Society has been active in many local issues over the years, in addition to saving, relocating, and restoring the Morrell House. As custodian of the Morrell House, the Society maintains the building and its furnishings, opens it up on weekends for tours, and makes it available for local non-profit groups to hold meetings.
      The primary focus of the Society during its first nineteen years was to restore the Morrell House. With that task now complete, we are seeking a vision for the future. We are looking for enthusiastic volunteers to help shape the Society as it moves forward. As a former Society Membership Chairman once said, "The number of members in an organization equate with the influence exerted by that organization. If we are to increase our influence in historic education and preservation in Redondo Beach, we must increase our membership." It is up to each of us to ask our friends, neighbors, and acquaintances to join the Redondo Beach Historical Society and aid in preserving Redondo's heritage.
      Since opening to the public in August 2007, attendance has been good at the Morrell House (averaging a little over 100 visitors per month) which indicates that there is a genuine interest in the community to learn about the history of Redondo Beach. Society volunteers maintain the house and serve as docents for tours. Society members have also been involved in assisting the Preservation Commission in surveying the City's potentially historic residences. Members volunteered with the Friends of Freeth group to raise funds to replace the stolen George Freeth memorial.
      We would like to continue our current activities as well as to branch out to get involved in other worthwhile causes. These efforts require the support of our community. If your membership has lapsed, please rejoin. If you are a current member, please invite your friends and family to join as well. Thank you for your support!