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Sonoma League for Historic Preservation

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"It is increasingly important to preserve the best of what came before. "
    ---Jim Callahan, Past President, Sonoma Valley Museum of Art

What is it about Sonoma? Some say it's  the world-class wine, bread and cheese or the remarkable countryside. Some say it's the people. Some say it's the heavenly weather and the look of the town square.

Whatever it is, Sonoma is a small town with a big soul. Whether you have lived here a long time or this is your first visit, you can't help but feel it. That Sonoma heart and soul is what The League is all about preserving.

The Sonoma League for Historic Preservation has been devoted to the stewardship of Sonoma’s architectural heritage for 40 years and has guarded the historic integrity of buildings and neighborhoods through its many programs designed to maintain the distinct visual character we have come to know and enjoy.

The goals of The League are:

  1. To increase awareness of the unique nature and history of the region.
  2. To promote interest in preserving and enhancing the historic resources of
    Sonoma Plaza and surrounding areas.

For 40 years, The Sonoma League has been active in maintaining the look and feel of Sonoma. Activities include building restoration, docent staffing of historical points of interest, maintenance of an historic resources library, development of a growing collection of historical photos, protection of historic landmarks, a spring cottage and garden tour, and an annual awards program honoring Valley properties. More than 20,000 guests participate in League activities and events each year and the League maintains a database of over 800 historic properties available for use by the public.

To learn more, visit Sonoma League

2011 Star Award Winner

Jason Bell has volunteered thousands of hours in the past 2 years helping the League digitally catalogue its archives of articles, oral histories and photographs in the League’s Cochran Binders. The League honors Jason for his perseverance on the project.  He is a dedicated volunteer committed to making the organization’s records available in a contemporary format for the members and public to view.

Jason is pictured here with Loyce Haran, Sonoma League for Historic Preservation's Board Chair.

2010 Star Award Winners

 

Patricia Cullinan (center) and Nancy Simpson (right) accepting the SVF's 2010 Star Award along with Sonoma League for Historic Preservation's Board Chair Loyce Haran (left).

Patricia and Nancy spent endless hours and energy helping in the restoration of the Maysonnave House.  Patricia expedited the permitting process, served as liaison between the building contactor and the League, and, as an engineer and landscape designer, designed the watering system, lighting and fountain to create the beautiful garden.

Nancy pushed forward the completion of construction, and under her direction, the Heritage Center now offers a library of historic documents and a variety of programs to the community.