The Gaslamp Quarter Historical Foundation (GQHF) is the “curator” of the Gaslamp Quarter – a 16 1/2 block district listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

Through its operation of the William Heath Davis House Museum and Park, the GQHF promotes the educational, historical and cultural development of the historic Gaslamp Quarter.

The GQHF grew out of a community effort begun in the mid-1970s when the value of historic preservation was gaining widespread acceptance and support. Local preservationists, urban planners, business owners and other citizens were able to see past the deteriorated condition of the area, now known as the Gaslamp Quarter, and envision the historic buildings restored to their original character and put to new uses. These early pioneers saw that the city’s built heritage provided a vital connection with the city’s past.

The GQHF was formed in 1981 as the Gaslamp Quarter Foundation, soon after the Gaslamp Quarter was listed on the National Register in 1980. As a 501(c)(3) not for profit charitable corporation, the organization has successfully completed projects that have educated San Diego residents and visitors about the spirit and heritage of the district.

In 1996, the organization changed its name to Gaslamp Quarter Historical Foundation to help promote its role in preserving the historical integrity of the district. As the historic and cultural contributions of the Foundation became more widely recognized, it was believed that the name change would better reflect its mission “To promote the history and culture of the Gaslamp Quarter.”

One full time employee is on staff as Executive Director.

The Foundation is governed by a Board of Directors whose members share an appreciation of historical significance of the district and bring enthusiasm and commitment in carrying out the Foundation’s mission. The group collectively brings a variety of backgrounds and professional expertise to their work. The tireless efforts of the Foundation’s 100 or so volunteers provide ongoing assistance for all of the organization’s programs.

The GQHF is the only organization in existence which provides San Diego residents and visitors with the tools, resources and means to learn about and enjoy the vast history of one of the finest historic districts in the United States. Through its leadership and support, the Foundation is able to further the historical, educational and cultural values of the Historic Heart of San Diego. Its educational and community awareness programs contributes to the betterment of the Gaslamp Quarter and the entire community.

Click here for directions and map.

Web Site Credits

Photographic Credits:

Dr. Ray Brandes

Margaret Macgregor – Photographer

San Diego Historical Society Photographic Collection

Marv Sloben Photography

Union Title / San Diego Historical Society

University of San Diego

Historical Source Information:

The Story of New San Diego and its Founder Alonzo E. Horton by Elizabeth C. MacPhail, San Diego Historical Society, 1979

An American in California – The Biography of William Heath Davis by Andrew F. Rolle

75 Years In California by William Heath Davis

Title Insurance and Trust Company

San Diego Historical Society

San Diego Central Library – California Room

Special Thanks to:

Centre City Development Corporation (CCDC)

Clare White Communications

D.C. Roberts Design Associates

Gaslamp Quarter Association

Pastels by Susan E. Roden