A Park Within a Park - Preserving the Marston Legacy

Mary Gilman Marston was the last of the Marston family to live in the home. In 1974 she gave the estate to the City of San Diego, to be used for the enjoyment of the public, and the entire property to be added on to Balboa Park upon her death, which occurred in 1987.

The idea came about rather recently; in fact, Mrs. Beardsley (sister, Helen) suggested it to me and it seems only natural to have the property become part of the park after my death. - Mary Marston, San Diego Evening Tribune, July 30, 1974

Now a house museum, the captivating estate, which is listed on the National Register of Historic Places, is managed by Save Our Heritage Organisation for the City of San Diego. For over 50 years SOHO's own impassioned efforts have paralleled many of those of the Marston family in preserving, promoting and supporting San Diego's significant architectural, cultural and historical links and landmarks, now and for future generations.

C. 1915 historic souvenir postcard. Courtesy SOHO Collection