The History of Samohi

In 1921 the Memorial Open Air Theatre was added and dedicated to the memory of Samohi boys who were in World War I. In 1924 the Library Building, now the English Building, was added. Buildings sustained damage in an earthquake in 1933; in 1934 an extensive remodeling and modernization job was begun which required students to attend classes in tents for several years. The renovation was completed in 1938 along with the construction of a 1400-seat auditorium, which has served both Samohi and the community well. In 1944 the auditorium was named for W.F. Barnum, Principal from 1914 to 1943.

In 1952 when Santa Monica City College left the location adjacent to the high school, Samohi acquired its campus. Additional land was purchased, and today the campus covers 33 acres. The Science and Technology Buildings were built on the SMCC site.

In 1969 two construction projects were completed: an Olympic-sized natatorium and enlargement of the Greek Theatre to a seating capacity of 3558. The fall of 1971 saw the completion of the new Language and Library Building. Beginning June 1993 Samohi saw major construction again as proposition ES work began. The result of the efforts of many people through the years is a rolling campus uniquely set just four blocks from the Pacific Ocean.

 

[Ed. note: The majority of this text has been taken verbatim from A History of The Santa Monica Schools, a master's thesis dated February,1952, by Donald M. Cleland. We are grateful for his scholarly study.]

Named Facilities at Samohi The naming of facilities at Samohi recognizes special service to Samohi. Barnum Hall WF Barnum, Principal (1916-1943) Roberts Art Gallery Josephine Roberts, Art Department Chair (1930s) Mortensen Library William Mortensen, Banker (1950 graduate, school benefactor) Drake Pool George Drake, Principal (1958-1971) Sealy Baseball Field Don Seally, Teacher, Baseball Coach Jellison Humanities Center Gene Jellison, Drama Teacher Purucker Darkroom Fred Purucker, Photo & Stage Crew Teacher Lucas Room in the Mortensen Library June & Walt Lucas, Teachers and Teachers' Union Presidents (English & Science) Purucker Conference Room in the Mortensen Library Mary Purucker, Librarian Memorial Greek Theatre Students who have given of their lives for our country. Senior Bench Special place for seniors to congregate

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