Office of Historic Preservation Shines a Light on California Architects to Celebrate Women's History Month
Story from: Amy Eubanks, Office of Historic Preservation
 The Herald Examiner Building in Los Angeles is just one of several California architectural gems designed by Julia Morgan. Photo from Historic Resources Group, LLC.
To celebrate Women’s History Month, the Office of Historic Preservation is highlighting the contributions of women to architecture in California. One of the most prominent names in architecture is Julia Morgan, who designed over 700 buildings. Her work includes Hearst Castle, the Fairmont Hotel and the Herald Examiner Building in Los Angeles, which was recently renovated as part of the Federal Historic Preservation Tax Credit program. However, Morgan is just one of a long list of women who contributed to the design of businesses, schools, housing, communities and gardens throughout the state. While some names have been lost to history, there are many notable contributors.
Norma Merrick Sklarek (1926–2021) was the first African American woman to be a fellow at the American Institute of Architects (AIA) and contributed to the designs of buildings throughout California. As a production architect at Gruen Associates, Sklarek oversaw the completion of the San Bernardino City Hall. As a member of the firm Welton Becket Associates, Sklarek contributed to the design of Los Angeles International Airport's Terminal 1. Later in her career, she cofounded Siegel Sklarek Diamond, which became the country's largest women-owned architecture firm at the time.
Multi-AIA award-winning architect Lilian Rice (1889–1938) designed buildings and homes for the planned community of Rancho Sante Fe (California Historic Landmark 982) as part of the firm Requa and Jackson. Rice also designed the Martha Kinsey House in La Jolla and the ZLAC Rowing Clubhouse in San Diego. Ten of the buildings Rice contributed to in Rancho Sante Fe are listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
One of California's most decorated architects, receiving the AIA California Council Lifetime Achievement Award in 2017, Beverly Anne Willis (1928–2023) designed several residential and commercial buildings in California. Most notably, the Union Street Shops, a conversion of three buildings of Victorian architecture, into a multi-story shopping complex in San Franciso. This project earned her the Governor of California Award for Exceptional Distinction in Environmental Design for Adaptive Reuse in 1967. Willis also designed the San Francisco Ballet Building, working closely with the company's director, Michael Smuin. This building was the first designed specifically for the use of a ballet company and would become the prototype for the design of ballet company buildings.
These women are just a few who helped shape California's structural landscape. The Office of Historic Preservation is happy to share and celebrate the state’s rich history by promoting the preservation of California’s irreplaceable and diverse cultural heritage.
Honoring Betty Rogers: The Woman Who Preserved Will Rogers’ Legacy
Story from: Ilsa Buelow, Bill Hamm and Dave Shepherd, Angeles District
 Portrait of Betty Rogers. Photo from Will Rogers State Historic Park.
For Women’s History Month, we celebrate Betty Rogers—a woman of quiet strength, resilience and vision. While history remembers Will Rogers as a beloved humorist, actor and cowboy, it was his wife, Betty, who ensured his legacy would endure for generations.
In 1944, Betty tried to donate 186 acres of the Will Rogers Ranch to California, but the state, struggling through World War II and economic hardship, initially refused. Determined, she found an ally in long-term friend of the Rogers family Leo Carrillo, a Hollywood star and parks advocate, who used his influence to make the donation possible. Thanks to Betty’s perseverance, the land that Will cherished became Will Rogers State Historic Park.
Despite her impact, little has been written about Betty herself. Born in 1879 in Rogers, Ark., she was a hardworking, multi-talented woman—a telegrapher, amateur actress and musician. The actor and comedian W.C. Fields called her “the most wonderful woman I have known.” Will’s own son, Jimmy Rogers, said, “If it had not been for Betty Blake from Rogers, Arkansas, there never would have been the Will Rogers much of the world knew and loved.” With Will away on his travels and film projects, Betty took on the immense responsibility of running the ranch—managing the ranch hands and animals, overseeing Will’s schedule, keeping finances in check, and ensuring their family stayed strong and connected.
Betty didn’t just give land—she gave us the heart and soul of Will Rogers’ legacy.
Women’s History Celebrated at Asilomar State Beach and Conference Grounds
Story from: Jenifer Lienau Thompson, Monterey District
 Top left and right: Participants gather for tours at Asilomar Conference Grounds to celebrate Women's History Month. Bottom left: Visitors learning dance moves from the 1920s and 1930s in the Grace Dodge Chapel, designed by architect Julia Morgan.
Asilomar’s history is women’s history, so we take Women’s History Month seriously. Asilomar was established in 1913 by the YWCA to empower high-school and college-aged women. Julia Morgan, California's first licensed female architect, was tasked with designing the buildings. Today, Asilomar remains the perfect place to honor and celebrate the accomplishments of these women.
On March 15, State Parks staff and volunteers offered a full day of free activities celebrating over a century of significant accomplishments achieved by women in California. Approximately 90 visitors took advantage of three guided tours of Asilomar’s Julia Morgan-designed historic buildings. Others channeled the audacious spirit of women from the 1920s and 1930s who exerted their independence with dance crazes like the Charleston and the Jitterbug in two free dance workshops led by Shari Fortino and Michael Smothers of Debonair Dancers. Finally, author Traci Bliss revealed the pivotal roles that women, including Pheobe Apperson Hearst and the author’s own relative, Jenny Bliss Jeter, played in saving Big Basin Redwoods State Park and establishing California’s oldest state park.
State Park and Recreation Commission to Meet in Palm Desert, Host Public Tour of Anza-Borrego Desert State Park
Story from: Kevin Murphy, Communications and Marketing Division
 Members of the public are invited to attend the next California State Park and Recreation Commission tour of Anza-Borrego Desert State Park on Tuesday, March 25, from 9:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Participants are asked to RSVP for the tour here so an estimated attendance can be recorded. Participants unable to RSVP may still be permitted to attend the tour.
Those attending are encouraged to consider wearing appropriate clothing and footwear suitable for the walking portions of the tour. Comfortable hiking boots or running shoes, jackets, or layers, sunscreen, and hats are recommended. A 30-minute break for lunch will be included during the tour, but participants must bring their own food and beverages.
The Commission will meet on Wednesday, March 26, beginning at 9 a.m. at the JW Marriott Desert Springs. The agenda includes Commission priorities for 2025, updates from the Colorado Desert District and Los Angeles Area Fires Recovery Program and a planning update from State Parks staff members.
Further information, including agendas for both the tour and Commission meeting and how to join the meeting in person or virtually, is available at parks.ca.gov/PublicNotices. For more information about the State Park and Recreation Commission, visit the Commission webpage. California State Parks supports equal access. Prior to arrival, visitors with disabilities who need assistance should contact (916) 902-8651.
Sharing Clean and Safe Boating Practices at the 2025 Sacramento Boat Show
Story and photo from: Vivian Matuk, Division of Boating and Waterways
 Jim Goof, a Dockwalker and former member of the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary, and Debora Angove, a Dockwalker partner from the U.S. Power Squadron, were just two of several volunteers providing safe and clean boating information during the Sacramento Boat Show.
Representatives from several programs designed to educate the boating community recently attended the Sacramento Boat Show. The Division of Boating and Waterways’ (DBW's) Boating Safety and Education Unit, Boating Clean and Green Program, Quagga and Zebra Mussel Program, the Delta Conservancy, and several U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary partners from the Dockwalker Program shared clean and safe boating practices and information about the California Boater Card. A short video showing attendees interacting with staff is available.
Approximately 500 attendees learned about boating safety and clean boating practices, including how to properly dispose of oil absorbents and boat sewage, and received information about environmental and safe boating laws. Staff members at the show also distributed boater kits and the Delta Clean Boating Map. Just one of many positive comments we received from boat show participants was, “Your booth has the best information we received all day.”
Bringing the Western Engine Back to Life
Story and video from: Garrett Fuhrman, Inland Empire District
 The Western Engine has roared back to life at California Citrus State Historic Park through the efforts of volunteers from Western Antique Power Associates.
Within the collection of California Citrus State Historic Park (SHP) stands a remarkable piece of agricultural history, the Western Engine. Built in 1926, this 17-ton, 200-horsepower engine played a critical role in the development of irrigated agriculture, ensuring that the citrus groves of Riverside remained productive and thriving. Originally used by the Highland Riverside Water Company, the engine helped pump water to elevated reservoirs, providing essential irrigation to the groves that once defined the landscape of the “Naval Orange Empire.”
Donated to the park in 1997, the Western Engine recently underwent a complete restoration to operational condition, thanks to the dedication of the Western Antique Power Associates (WAPA). This group of passionate volunteers worked tirelessly to bring the engine back to life, preserving an integral piece of California’s agricultural past.
Beyond its mechanical significance, the Western Engine serves as a gateway to understanding the broader history of water rights and management in California. Conflicts over water led to the formation of the Riverside Water Company in 1884, shaping the region’s approach to irrigation and resource distribution. This and other historical developments continue to impact the state's water policies today.
While the Western Engine is not yet open for public viewing, the park has exciting plans for its future. A new video highlights the engine in action as part of a future museum display at California Citrus SHP. Narrated by Gary Bankston, a dedicated volunteer and WAPA member, the video dives into the story of the engine’s restoration, its historical significance and what is to come for this fascinating artifact. Discover more about this fascinating new exhibit in the video below!
Making Our Trails as Smooth as Butter at Donner Memorial State Park
Story from: Bill Bowness, Sierra District
 A new trail groomer was recently purchased for Donner Memorial State Park by the Sierra State Parks Foundation. Photo by Emily Rolland, Sierra District.
Thanks to our nonprofit partner Sierra State Parks Foundation, Donner Memorial State Park (SP) has acquired a trail groomer. As cross-country skiing and snowshoeing continue to grow in popularity, having groomed trails will enhance the experience of our visitors as they create lasting memories. These groomed trails will provide visitors with an even more enjoyable and memorable outdoor adventure.
The Snow Master-48 is designed to be pulled behind a tracked side-by-side utility vehicle or snowmobile. The groomer has two functions: it can smooth the trail, leaving a corduroy surface, and it can set classic (striding) ski tracks. Our plan is to groom a 3.2-mile stretch starting from the Donner Memorial SP campground kiosk, following the Donner Day Use Road to the China Cove fire road, and returning along the campground road.
We appreciate the patience of visitors as we refine our trail grooming techniques. While there may be a learning curve, rest assured that we are committed to making our multi-purpose trails enjoyable for all our visitors. Thanks Sierra State Parks Foundation!
 The new trail groomer in action. Photos by Emily Rolland, Sierra District
A Winter Wonderland at Mount San Jacinto State Park
Story from: Garrett Fuhrman, Inland Empire District
 Snow blankets Mount San Jacinto State Park near Palm Springs.
Mount San Jacinto State Park was transformed into a winter wonderland last week as a powerful snowstorm blanketed the mountain region around the park. The storm brought several feet of snow to higher elevations, with nearly 2 feet of snow in Long Valley, creating a stunning alpine landscape. Now, a week later, the snow has settled, and temperatures remain cold, ranging from the mid-20s to low 40s, preserving the snow-covered scenery.
Visitors to the mountain can expect prime winter conditions for outdoor activities. Snow-covered trails provide opportunities for snowshoeing and backcountry exploration, though proper winter gear, including crampons and trekking poles, is highly recommended. The Palm Springs Aerial Tramway offers a breathtaking ride up to Long Valley, where visitors can experience a true high-elevation winter escape.
As always, those heading to the park should check road and weather conditions, dress warmly and come prepared for snowy terrain. Whether you are looking for an adventure or simply a peaceful escape in the mountains, Mount San Jacinto remains a stunning destination for winter recreation.
 Clockwise from top left: an entrance sign to Mount San Jacinto State Park surrounded by snow. The Idyllwild Ranger Station stands out from the majestic trees that surround it. The Palm Springs Aerial Tramway travels 2.5 miles from a valley elevation of 2,643 feet above sea level to 8,516 feet above sea level, where temperatures can be 30-40 degrees cooler. Photos by Garrett Fuhrman and Nicholas Garduno, Inland Empire District.
 PARTNER NEWS
Maria Mowrey Helps Candlestick Point State Recreation Area Thrive
Story from: Elizabeth Kubey, Parks California
 Maria Mowrey holding up a monarch butterfly kite. Photo by Veronica Miranda-Silva, Parks California.
Bay Area District Superintendent Maria Mowrey oversees 30,000 acres of natural and cultural resources. Her district spans from Robert Louis Stevenson State Park (SP) in Calistoga to Tomales Bay SP on the Marin coast to Candlestick Point State Recreation Area in San Francisco.
After years of community organizing by Bayview Hunters Point residents, Candlestick became the first urban California state park in 1977. For almost four years, Parks California has worked closely with Mowrey, her staff and local community groups to support the park reclaiming its vibrant community role. Our partnership focus has been to:
- authentically and consistently reengage with the community, rekindling trust;
- beautify the park by working and supporting local artists;
- center community voices in designing park activities; and
- explore long-term models for the park’s sustainability.
Candlestick has a special place in Mowrey's heart since she grew up in the neighborhood. Today, you might spot Mowrey at events like the Earth Day celebration, StoryWalk and kite festival.
Hear Mowrey's story here. Thank you, Maria, for making Bay Area state parks shine!
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