History Roundtable Presentation previewing the 20th Annual Home Tour "Artists & Officers"
The La Mesa History Center presents historian and author Jim Newland to preview the 20th Annual Home Tour: “Artists & Officers.”
Saturday, October 10, 2026, 10AM
The La Mesa History Center presents historian and author Jim Newland to preview the 20th Annual Home Tour: “Artists & Officers.” The presentation will be illuminating the history and stories of our featured home tour communities of Grossmont Colony/Mt. Helix and the builders and owners of the beautiful and historic homes of this year’s tour.
Program
James Newland: historian and author of Images of America: Around Mt. Helix and La Mesa
Come learn about the origins of Grossmont’s early 20th Century dreams for creating a rustic bohemian artist colony. Find out about early developers, investors, and residents including Ed Fletcher and namesake actor/theater agent William B. Gross. Hear about pioneering “artist” residents such as world-renown opera singer Ernestine Schumann-Heink, poet John Vance Chaney, concert violinist Beulah Miles Lewis, painter Valencia Rafferty McCleave as well as the featured later works of local artist/craftspersons such as James Hubbell, Wayne Chapman, Anne Meek, Lynn Reeves and Mic Mead.
Learn how noted architects such as Emmor Brooke Weaver, Mead and Requa, Del Harris and Lillian Rice designed outstanding houses into the Arts & Crafts inspired landscape of indoor-outdoor lifestyle. See how design ethic evolved into the popular “revival” styles homes of the Inter-World War years featured in rural/suburban Grossmont and Mt. Helix. In addition, find out the fascinating connections to San Diego’s military heritage including the homes of Spanish-American, World War I and World War II decorated veteran officers who made their homes here.
The Roundtable Presentation will be on Saturday, October 10, 2026, 10AM
La Mesa First United Methodist Church
4690 Palm Ave,
La Mesa, CA 91941
Roundtable Admission: Free for LMHC Members, $5 donation for non-members
Don’t Miss this opportunity to learn about some of Greater La Mesa’s most historic, beautiful and preserved properties that represent the distinctive architecture, landscapes, and artisanship featured in our Platinum anniversary 20th Home Tour.
20th Annual Home Tour
Once again ticket holders will experience some of La Mesa’s most historic, beautiful, and preserved properties featuring awe-inspiring views, period decor, inspiring architecture, artistic charms, lush landscapes, and deep historical roots. Don't miss these fantastic Greater La Mesa area homes!
FRIDAY NIGHT PREMIUM HOME TOUR TICKETS AVAILABLE
La Mesa History Center is also offering a limited number of tickets for the Friday Night Pre-Tour and Reception — November 6th, 5:30-9:00PM
Get a chance to meet and thank the Homeowners and get a guided tour of the tour properties with historian Jim Newland.
Friday Night Premium ticket price includes ticket to Saturday’s tour.
Pre-Event Tickets
La Mesa History Center Members $40, Non-Members $50
Patron & Benefactor Members receive 2 Home Tour tickets with annual membership.
Day-of Tickets
La Mesa History Center Members $50, Non-Members $60
Friday Night Premium Tickets
La Mesa History Center Members $115, Non-Members $125
Get Your Tickets Now!
The tour has sold out for the last two years, so don't hesitate and get your tickets now!
Members
Members receive discounts and/or complimentary tickets depending on their level of membership. If you have an active membership that runs through November 7, 2026 you will have received an email with your PROMO code.
If your membership expires before November 7, 2026 or if you'd like to join as a new member review our memberships.
Volunteers
Docent volunteers play a vital role in making the home tour a success. It's a fun, engaging way to give back to the community - and as a thank-you, all docents receive free access to tour the other homes on the day of the event. Whether you are passionate about history, architecture, or just love meeting new people, this is a fantastic way to get involved.
Sponsors
Platinum
La Mesa Lumber
Gold
Andrea Flint-Gogek / Tranquility Property Management
Architectural Salvage of San Diego
EDCO Disposal Corporation
La Mesa Village Association
Tracey Stotz, Broker
If you're interested in sponsoring this year's tour, learn about all of the benefits.
