SOHO presents a digital exhibit about the forward-thinking and lasting contributions of one of the region's leading families George and Mary Marston and their offspring.

Marston's department store founder, visionary civic leader, and philanthropist George W. Marston set a high bar for the city and his progressive family as he reached for the greater good, helping to create major parks and open space, the public library, and the San Diego YMCA, among other treasured public assets that we take for granted today. After arriving in San Diego by ship in 1870 to offer seven decades of public service, Marston advocated for growth that complemented the region's rich natural environment.

Marston had the foresight to commission restoration of the crumbling San Diego Mission de Alcalá, preserve the nationally significant Spanish Presidio with Presidio Park, and support Balboa Park's transformation from barren mesas to a lushly landscaped, floral oasis that hosted two successful international expositions he assisted in guiding. At the time of his death at age 95 in 1946, Marston had led and/or financially supported no less than 140 organizations that advanced San Diego's social, cultural, educational, and commercial life.

The original physical exhibit unfolded against the furnished, domestic backdrop of one of California's finest examples of Arts and Crafts architecture, the 1906 Hebbard & Gill designed Marston House and gardens.

It highlights the accomplishments of George, his wife, Anna Gunn Marston, their children, and grandchildren. The impact of this socially and politically engaged family resonates to this day with fellow citizens concerned about the future of historic Balboa Park and other significant public landmarks, schools and universities, social and economic opportunities, immigration, and preserving what's historically authentic about San Diego.

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