While the California State Parks is in the middle of an unprecedented budget crisis, its budget having been reduced by nearly $20 million since 2000-2001, it is seeking to raise $650,000 to acquire the contents of the Adamson House Museum, according to a press release from the California State Parks.
The Adamson House Estate retained ownership of the contents of the landmark home, which were left intact when the property was sold to the state in 1968.
For the past three years, park officials have worked with the state Legislature to try to obtain park bond funds to purchase the Adamson collection. These efforts were unsuccessful and now State Parks is working in conjunction with the California State Park Foundation and Malibu Lagoon Interpretive Association to launch a massive fund raising effort. The state must raise the funds by the end of 2005.
State Parks Director Ruth Coleman has pledged $100,000 to the California State Park Foundation as an initial grant to begin the effort. The Board of Directors for the Malibu Lagoon Interpretive Association has also pledged $100,000. Local residents have also made some significant donations.
The State Parks press release states that the loss of the home’s contents would have a significant impact on the Adamson House Museum, compromising the ability of its docents to tell the story of the house and the people who once lived in it. More information can be obtained by contacting Park Superintendent Hayden Sohm at 310.457.8140.