About

La Señora Research Institute is a small, volunteer-led organization in Los Angeles dedicated to preserving local history, interpreting cultural landscapes, and fostering community education in Southern California. We connect people and projects through meaningful collaborations.

Our work centers on research and education, with a special focus on the Rancho Era of Early California under Spain, Mexico, and the United States. Much of our research highlights the 1839 Mexican Land Grant Rancho Boca de Santa Monica—home to our José Mojica Hacienda and the Pascual Marquez Family Cemetery. Equally important is preserving the Rancho’s cultural traditions, including its long-standing spirit of hospitality. For generations, these canyon grounds welcomed visitors seeking peace beneath its sheltering trees and ocean breezes.

Founded in 2005, our initial mission focused on documenting the history of Rancho Boca de Santa Monica. Over time, our work has expanded to embrace diverse projects and foster community partnerships. Today, Casa Mojica and its gardens serve as a hub for gatherings, conversations, and intimate musical events—honoring the layered history of this special place, from its origins as the Tongva village of Comicraibit to its Rancho-era traditions and later salon culture.

Our work is made possible by members and volunteers. By becoming a member—or volunteering—you help sustain our efforts. Members enjoy access to special events, lectures, and discounts at our shop.

La Señora is located in the serene Santa Monica Canyon, where lies the creek from which the City of Santa Monica took its name. Legend tells that a Spanish soldier with the first exploration party drank from the meandering creek running through our Canyon and exclaimed that: “The water is as sweet as the tears of St. Monica”.