At the May 2 Council meeting, the Colton City Council recognized by proclamation the Colton Area Museum Day 10th Annual Recognition, which was formally set for May 6, 2023. The proclamation was presented to three members of the Colton Area Museum Association (CAMA) Board of Directors by Council Member, Dr. G, who is a CAMA Life Member. The CAMA Board Members in attendance were Christina Perris, President, Jimmy Villegas, Vice-President, and George Aguilar, Board Member.
Since 1991, the Colton Area Museum has served as a community anchor for maintaining and preserving Colton’s rich history and cultural traditions. From buildings to sports stars, and public safety to Colton High School, the Museum has established a wonderful legacy of displays and historical information that spurs the curiosity of just about everyone. Board Member Frank Acosta explains, “The Colton Area Museum is a cultural treasure that we must preserve for Colton’s current and future residents, as well as for visitors. The history of Colton is the history of its people-our collective history.”
Over the last three years, the museum has been shuttered, first due to the pandemic, but subsequently due to the remodeling efforts spurned on by a state-sponsored grant that allowed the museum to upgrade its facilities, redesign its displays, and give the place, “a new look.” According to Museum and City officials, the target date for reopening the museum is scheduled for November later this year.
Built in 1908, the Colton Area Museum building was the brainchild of the Colton Women’s Club, who supported a charitable trust established by steel magnate and philanthropist Andrew Carnegie, who through his efforts enabled many communities across America to build public libraries. The formal name is the Carnegie Library Building. It served as a library for many decades and is listed on the National Registry of Historical Places.
The CAMA Board appreciates the support of the Colton City Council which has once again recognized the museum programs with a proclamation honoring CAM Museum Day. “I’m proud that the City of Colton has taken the time to recognize the museum, and honor the achievements of the Museum Association, and its volunteers,” says President Christina Perris.
For more information about the museum and its programs, contact the Museum at 909-824-8814, or Christina Perris at 909-648-5768.