Hawthorne Historical Society
Hawthorne Historical Society
Preserving our past. Celebrating our present. Inspiring our future. Together
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3901 W. El Segundo
Blvd. Hawthorne,
CA 90250
MUSEUM HOURS
Wed-Fri: 12pm-4pm
Sat: 10am-2pm
Sun-Tue: Closed
Hawthorne Historical Society
Mission Statement
Hawthorne Historical Society, founded in 2011, is a nonprofit organization with a mission to inspire and empower people to make Hawthorne’s richly diverse past a meaningful part of their contemporary lives.
Love Hawthorne? Love local history?
Help preserve its stories.
The Hawthorne Historical Society is accepting applications for the 2026 Volunteer Board of Directors.
Time Commitment: Average of 2–6 hours per month.
Available Roles: Research, Docenting, Collections, Writing, Events, Digital support
Application Deadline: November 30, 2025.
About Hawthrorne
Hawthorne is located in the very heart of the favored Southwest, being in the direct path of Los Angeles, towards the only natural deep-water seaport in Southern California.
We endeavor to bring you closer to the City of Hawthorne, past and present, by providing exhibits, materials, local history speaker events, walking guided tours for area school classes, historical reference books and photographs, personal histories (oral and written) and our annual Hall of Fame Induction Dinner where notable people and organizations are recognized and honored.
The Hawthorne Land Company published and distributed thousands of circulars to entice people to purchase lots and or homes in the Hawthorne area. We welcome your input, comments, and contributions of photographs and memories to augment the collection.
Who We Are
Hawthorne Historical Society, founded in 2011, is a nonprofit organization with a mission to inspire and empower people to make Hawthorne’s richly diverse past a meaningful part of their contemporary lives.
Donation
The Hawthorne Historical Society is an IRS 501(c)(3) non-profit organization. We are funded through memberships, direct cash donations, events, and sponsorships.
Members
Membership is not required to access our website or physical museum. We do offer paid membership to support our organization and offer exclusive content and your name is acknowledged on our website with consent.
Merchandise
In both the online store and at the Museum, we have limited supplies of hard copy high school yearbooks, electronic copies of yearbooks, digital vintage photographs and historical documents.
Events
From lectures and tours to community celebrations, our events bring history to life for all ages
Hawthorne Historical Gallery
Explore our collection of historic photos, documents, and city memories. Members enjoy access to exclusive galleries and archives.
Free Gallery
BECOME A MEMBER
Support preservation and get exclusive member benefits.
DONATE
Every gift helps preserve Hawthorne's history
VISIT THE MUSEUM
Plan your visit and explore Hawthorne's past in person
Become a Member
Preserve Hawthorne's History
Your support today helps protect our past and inspire future generations.
Members Benefits
Tax Deductible Receipts
Member Gallery & blogs
Exclusive Content
Online Store Discounts
Event Priority Invite
Support & Preserve Local History
MEMBERSHIP ANNUAL PLANS
Senior
(60+)
1 Year
$15
2 Year
$27
Lifetime
$99
Single
Individual
1 Year
$20
2 Year
$36
Lifetime
$129
Family
Up to 6 Members
1 Year
$30
2 Year
$54
Lifetime
$149
Organization
Busineesses & Groups
1 Year
$50
2 Year
$100
5 Year
$250
Become Part of Hawthorne's Story
Your membership helps preserve local history, support educational programs, and keep the museum thriving for generations to come
Upcoming Events
UPCOMING
August 22, 2026 | Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony
Inductees Association: Hawthorne Imperial Lions Club Olympic Athlete: Cliff Meidl Pro Football: Ron Mix Pro Football: David & Oliver Williams Local Business:…
Learn More
UPCOMING
Request to Serve on the Board
Why serve on the Board? Make a visible impact on local history, education, and community pride. Guide museum programs, preservation projects, and…
Learn MorePast Events
PAST EVENT
May 21 2026 – Lecture Series Presentation
El Camino College is engaged in planning efforts focused on the future of the campus and the role they continue to play…
View Details
PAST EVENT
Hometown Pancake Breakfast
HAWTHORNE HISTORICAL SOCIETY cordially invites you to a Hometown Pancake Breakfast Venue: Jim Thorpe Park – 14100 Prairie Avenue, Hawthorne Raffle —…
View Details
PAST EVENT
Hawthorne High School Athletics Complex Ribbon Cutting Ceremony
Join us for the grand opening of Hawthorne High School’s new Athletics Complex with a special ribbon cutting ceremony! Join us at…
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PAST EVENT
Board Game Nights at the Museum Discontinued
Our event series, Board Game Nights at the Museum, has concluded. Thanks to hosts Chuck Collins and Anita McCullom-Collins and to all our…
View DetailsLatest Blogs
Discover Stories, Histories & Insights of Hawthorne
History of Hawthorne by Robert S. Hartman
Screenshot This history embraces four periods:(1)
Newsletters
Stay updated with our Newsletters & Announcements
IN PARTNERSHIP WITH
Our Sponsors
The organizations whose generosity keeps Hawthorne’s history open to the public
FOUNDING PARTNER
The Chevron logo displayed at the Hawthorne Historical Society, showcasing the company’s branding with its distinctive blue, white, and red chevron design.
COMMUNITY PARTNER
Logo of the Hawthorne Historical Society, showcasing a tree, river, and historical figures, symbolizing the preservation of Hawthorne’s rich history and community heritage.
CIVIC PARTNER
Hawthorne Historical Society building showcasing classic architecture and community history, serving as a hub for preserving Hawthorne’s local heritage and cultural events.
WAYS TO SUPPORT US
Every Gift Keeps Our History Alive
Memberships, donations, and memorial opportunities help ensure our exhibits, educational programs, and archives are cared for generations to come.
Your support directly fuels museum upgrades, digital preservation, new exhibits, restoration, educational programs, and community events.
GET IN TOUCH
We'd Love to Hear From You
Have a question or want to learn more about our museum, events, or membership? Reach out-we’re here to help.
LOCATION
Jim Thorpe Park 14100 Praire Ave, Hawthorne, CA 90250
MUSEUM HOURS
Jim Thorpe Park Tuesday & Saturday 11AM-2PM (Except Holidays)
MAIL ADDRESS
P.O. Box 1262,
Hawthorne,
CA 90251