The Gaslamp Quarter Historical Foundation (the Foundation) is the “curator” of the Gaslamp Quarter – a 16 1/2 block area listed on the National Register of Historic Places.  Through exhibits, tours, festivals and educational programs for children and adults, the Foundation opens a window to the past by depicting the historical development of downtown San Diego.

The Foundation operates the oldest standing residence in the Gaslamp Quarter, the William Heath Davis House Museum, a repository of artifacts, photos and archives that we seek to preserve for residents and visitors from throughout the world.

Formed in 1981, the Foundation is a not-for-profit California corporation recognized by the IRS as a 501 ( c) (3) tax-exempt organization.  Contributions to it are tax-deductible as allowable by law.

The Foundation is governed by a volunteer Board of Directors that shares an appreciation of the historical significance of the district and brings enthusiasm and commitment in carrying out the Foundation’s mission.  The Board sets policy and oversees the operations of both the Foundation and the house museum.  There are two full-time staff members, an Executive Director and an Operations Manage, and a part-time Administrator/Curator. In addition, there are numerous volunteers who are the life-blood of the Foundation.

The Gaslamp Quarter Historical Foundation 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.

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