In 1968 the Marin Art & Garden Center wanted to honor José Moya del Pino for his contributions as a founding member of the Center, past president of the Marin  Society of Artists (one of the first guilds to have a home on the premises), and recognized community artist. Funded with a generous donation from the Moya del Pino family, the old Octagon House, which had previously been the water tower for the original estate of the Kittle family, was moved from its former site, placed on a new foundation and fully renovated. The Octagon House became the  JOSE MOYA DEL PINO LIBRARY, and a supporting guild was formed under the knowledgeable guidance of Mrs. Thomas Kent and Mrs. Russell Smith. Many of the original volumes of the book collection, which specializes in art, gardening and local history, had been part of the library of the Moya-Horst family, with many others donated throughout the years by other prominent local families.  

 

The ROSS HISTORICAL SOCIETY was established in 1982. Its founding directors diligently researched early Ross history and compiled a collection of rare photographs and memorabilia. Founding member Carla Ehat spearheaded the countywide Oral History project which now resides in the California Room at the Marin County Library. New interviews are being added to keep the Ross segment up to date.

 

The local community and its history were a focus of both organizations, and they consolidated in 1994. For almost 30 years the non-profit made its home in the unique and charming Octagon House, until it had to move to accommodate a new renovation of the Marin Art & Garden Center. At present the collection of books is in storage, along with a wealth of other historical resources, waiting for a new home (possibly in the forthcoming new Ross City Hall). The organization remains active with monthly lectures and other activities: visit the Events page for more information.