McKinney House
8369 University Avenue, La Mesa CA 91942

Courtesy La Mesa Historical Society

Photo by Russel Ray

THE REVEREND HENRY A. MCKINNEY built this typical middle-class wood-frame house for his family in 1908 in what was known as Allison Springs. Four years later, the area was established as the City of La Mesa (the "jewel of the hills"), which engaged in the movie making business in its early days. The McKinneys were actively involved in their community. In addition to being one of the original ministers of the La Mesa Methodist Episcopal Church, McKinney operated a lemon grove, served as town librarian, and school trustee.

The focus period of the interior furnishings and decorative arts is 1908-1920.

The museum also houses the La Mesa Historical Society, encompassing chronicles of the neighboring communities of Grossmont, Mt. Helix, Casa de Oro, Spring Valley, Fletcher Hills, Rolando, Del Cerro and San Carlos, which collectively share an associative history. The Palermo Archives are available for research at the rear of the property.

La Mesa Historical Society LINK