137 Strathearn Place, Simi Valley, CA 93065
This beautiful six-acre park is part of the Rancho Simi Recreation and Park District and is the home of the Simi Valley Historical Society. The Simi Adobe is the oldest structure still standing in Simi. Some other historic buildings at the park include the Strathearn House, the original St. Rose of Lima Church, Ventura County’s first public library, and the Currier Apricot Pitting Shed. This site is California Historic Landmark Number 979, El Rancho Simi.
The UC Master Gardeners are replanting much of the Memorial Garden with plants that were common in California back when the land was settled by the Strathearn family. Many of the plants are native to California, along with some roses that were planted by the Strathearn family.
The Memory Garden concept started in 1991 to honor all the families who lived in Simi Valley prior to 1950. The garden was a cooperative effort of the Rancho Simi Recreation and Park District and the Simi Valley Historical Society.
The memorial that is in the garden was originally erected in front of the Strathearn house in memory of David L. Strathearn, Sr. and his sons Lloyd and Gordon, who were lost at sea in a plane accident in 1968. The monument was redesigned and moved over to the garden. Three rose bushes were planted behind the memorial to denote the three Strathearn men. The original garden was dedicated on May 1, 1994.
Volunteer Workday: Tuesdays from Noon to 2pm
