Agua Mansa Cemetery, marker for Lorenzo Trujillo , founder of Spanish Town.
About Us
The Spanish Town Heritage Foundation champions the Hispanic legacy of the Inland Empire’s first settlers by sharing their stories, creating cultural learning opportunities, and leading community efforts to restore and revitalize La Placita de los Trujillos, a place of history, learning, entertainment, and the arts.
Founded in 2014, the Spanish Town Heritage Foundation has been dedicated to preserving and celebrating the rich cultural heritage of Spanish Town, Riverside, and the broader Inland Empire region. Our mission is to honor the legacy of the area’s Hispanic pioneers, whose contributions have significantly shaped the community we know today.
At the core of our efforts is La Placita de los Trujillos, a historic landmark that serves as a vibrant hub for cultural exchange and community engagement. We strive to transform La Placita into a dynamic space where history comes alive through:
Educational Programs:
Offering workshops, lectures, and interactive sessions that delve into the history and culture of the first Hispanic settlers, providing invaluable learning experiences for all ages.
Community Events:
Hosting a variety of events, including the annual Riverside Tamale Festival, cultural festivals, historical reenactments, and art exhibitions that celebrate and showcase the rich traditions of the Hispanic community.
Restoration Projects:
Leading initiatives to preserve and restore historic sites such as the Trujillo Adobe, ensuring these treasures are maintained for future generations to appreciate and learn from.
Arts and Entertainment:
Providing a platform for local artists, musicians, and performers to showcase their talents, fostering a vibrant cultural scene that reflects the diverse heritage of the region.
Our foundation is more than an organization; it is a movement to keep the stories and contributions of the Inland Empire’s Hispanic pioneers alive. We invite you to join us in our mission, whether by participating in our programs, attending our events, or supporting our preservation efforts.
Together, we can ensure that the legacy of Spanish Town continues to inspire and educate, honoring the past while enriching the future.
Spanish Town Heritage Foundation founded in 2014.
Board Members
Nancy Melendez, President
Darlene Trujillo-Elliot, Vice President
Sharon Trujillo – Kasner
Art Alcaraz
Eric Romero
Susan Belknapp
Carol Ortega Koelling
Malia Vicent – Finney