The Point Loma Assembly, located in a historic building across from Cabrillo Elementary School at 3035 Talbot St., is dedicated to promoting civic, artistic, literary, social and philanthropic work on the Peninsula.
According to board president Susan Hoekenga, in appreciation of community support the Assembly has received over the years, the organization is sponsoring a contest to identify an appropriate nonprofit group or organization looking for a location for one day in which to complete their project.
“We are regularly approached by groups who want to use the building at no charge, and we can’t honor all these requests,” said house chairman Marty Smith, “even though we know there is a need for space in Point Loma.” “There are many groups in the area paying it forward with projects like tutoring kids, raising money for causes, putting on performances, and all kinds of wonderful things,” said Hoekenga. “Offering the building at no charge is our thank you to the community, and we look forward to providing space for a group that just needs a place to do that.”
Interested organizations may contact Hoekenga at (619) 222-3500 or [email protected].
This past summer, the site received upgrades. A new roof was put on, the front doors were painted, new signage noting the 100-year anniversary was added and new lighting was installed. Currently, the building is notable for another reason. A 12-foot-tall metal and glass sculpture, created for the Port District’s Urban Tree project, was installed in front of the Hall. Designed by Point Loma artist Garret Goodwin, the fanciful “tree” was erected to call attention to the Point Loma Assembly Art Show held last November. More than two-dozen juried artists participated, representing a variety of mediums including pottery, jewelry, paintings and glasswork. All artists donated a portion of their sales to the Assembly restoration fund, raising more than $3,000.
The Assembly was formed by a group of 28 community-minded women in 1911. The current building was built with funds solicited by the members on land deeded to the group. The first meeting was held in September 1914. The building was formally dedicated in January 1915, and the membership held a centennial celebration commemorating this milestone in January, where Mayor Kevin Faulconer presented the group with a proclamation noting the organization’s significant contributions to the community over the years.
The structure became an important community resource as the location of among other things, theater and musical performances, civil defense meetings, an election polling site and Red Cross workroom during WWII. Membership at one time was so large there was a junior and senior division, but attendance began to fall during the 1970s as more women went to work. “Several years ago the building was nearly sold to a non-profit, but a small group of women rallied to build up the membership and preserve this historic building. We are now over 100 members strong and growing,” said Dorothea Laub, hospitality chairwoman.
In addition to offering monthly programs for members, the building is regularly rented for writers and actor’s workshops, concerts and performances, family celebrations, non-profit meeting space, as well as political and religious groups. Modest rental fees help maintain and restore the property.
Restoration Chairman Bruce Cook identified a number of repairs that have been completed in the past two years, which include new landscaping, new paint inside and out, new windows, upgraded restrooms, improved ventilation, and the front porch was repaired and repainted. Membership is open to anyone in the community who has an interest in the Peninsula. More information on the Assembly, the art show, centennial celebration and contest rules for building use can be found at pointlomaassembly.org.