Balboa Island Museum Newport Beach: A Timeless Treasure
By: Jodi Salerno
At the heart of Orange County, the Balboa Island Museum Newport Beach serves as a captivating portal to the past, preserving and celebrating the history of Newport Beach and Newport Harbor. From its humble beginnings as a sandbar to a thriving waterfront community, the museum captures the essence of the areas transformation through fascinating exhibits, rare artifacts, and compelling stories of the people who shaped it.
The Origins of the Balboa Island Museum Newport Beach
The museum was founded in 2000 by a group of dedicated residents passionate about safeguarding the region's heritage. Initially located across from the Balboa Island Ferry, it later moved into a charming vintage cottage on Marine Avenue in 2011. As the collection grew, the need for a larger space became evident, leading to its final relocation in 2018 to 210 Marine Avenue, where visitors can now explore a vast array of exhibits and artifacts.
While its official history is well documented, little-known details about the museum's origins remain intriguing. The founders were not only residents but also historians, collectors, and preservationists who worked tirelessly to ensure that the transformation of Newport Beach “from an isolated coastal area into a world-renowned destination” would never be forgotten.
Today, the museum operates as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, continuing its mission to preserve and share the history of Newport Beach and Newport Harbor.
Balboa Island: A Vision Turned Reality
One of the most compelling stories told at the museum is the creation of Balboa Island itself. In 1908, developer William S. Collins undertook an ambitious dredging project to convert the muddy flats of Newport Bay into a residential paradise. This artificial island quickly attracted settlers, and by 1929, more than 100 people called Balboa Island home. Today, the island boasts around 2,346 full-time residents, though in the summer months, the population swells to nearly 10,000 with seasonal visitors.
A key figure in the island’s development was Joseph Allan Beek, who founded the Balboa Island Ferry in 1919. This small but essential ferry connected the island to the Balboa Peninsula, shaping the island’s future by making it more accessible to visitors and potential homeowners.
A Treasure Trove of Historical Artifacts
The museum is home to an impressive collection of artifacts, photographs and memorabilia that capture the essence of Newport Beach’s history. Visitors can immerse themselves in old photographs showcasing the island’s early days, offering a rare glimpse into its transformation over the decades.
One of the museum's most celebrated exhibits is its Hollywood memorabilia collection, featuring film legends who frequented Balboa Island during the 1920s and 1930s. The island was a favorite retreat for silver-screen icons such as John Wayne, Greta Garbo, Jane Russell, Bette Davis, Lauren Bacall and Humphrey Bogart. Actor James Cagney even owned Collins Island, a private section of Balboa Island, further intertwining Hollywood glamour with local history.
Another significant display showcases the story of the Hershey family, German immigrants who pursued their American Dream by establishing Hershey Market, a family-run grocery store that became a fixture on the island. Through photographs and personal items, visitors can trace the evolution of the Hershey family’s journey and their contribution to the island’s economy.
An Expanding Legacy: Beyond the Museum Walls
The Balboa Island Museum Newport Beach continues to expand its reach beyond its doors. A special exhibit previously displayed at John Wayne Airport is now moving to the Newport Beach Library, allowing even more visitors to experience the rich history of Newport Beach and Newport Harbor.
Fundraising events play a crucial role in sustaining the museum’s mission. Supported entirely by private contributions, the museum frequently hosts community events and special exhibits, ensuring its preservation for generations to come. Those interested in contributing can do so through monetary contributions, museum store purchases, or by attending fundraising events.
Additionally, the museum offers event spaces for rent, providing a unique and historically rich setting for private gatherings, corporate meetings and celebrations.
Leadership and Mission
The Balboa Island Museum Newport Beach is led by Founder and Chair Shirley Pepys and President John Conners, along with a dedicated Board of Directors. Under their leadership, the museum continues to serve as a steward of history, sharing the fascinating stories that define Newport Beach and Newport Harbor.
Why the Museum Matters Today
While Balboa Island's story is one of innovation, development and community, the Balboa Island Museum Newport Beach serves as a living reminder of the perseverance and vision that shaped this beloved destination. It continues to inspire both locals and visitors, bridging the past with the present through carefully curated exhibits and a commitment to historical preservation.
For those looking to experience the soul of Newport Beach, the Balboa Island Museum Newport Beach offers an unforgettable journey into its storied past. Whether you are drawn in by the glamour of the Hollywood golden era, fascinated by the island’s ambitious origins, or simply eager to explore the unique artifacts on display, a visit to the museum is sure to leave you with a deeper appreciation for this treasured destination and the history it holds.
For more information on upcoming exhibits, fundraisers, or event reservations, visit the Balboa Island Museum Newport Beach website at www.balboaislandmuseum.org or contact Shirley Pepys, Chairman, at (949) 466-5531.
Tudaloo on the Town!
Jodi Salerno
