Louise B. Gabriel, Santa Monica History Museum Founder, Dies

SANTA MONICA, CA -- Longtime community activist, philanthropist and founder of the Santa Monica History Museum, Louise B. Gabriel has died, the Santa Monica Daily Press reported.

Gabriel died this week in Santa Monica, according to the Daily Press. Gabriel founded the museum in 1975 and spent 28 years as its president. For 23 years, she was also its curator.

Her photographs of Santa Monica served as the basis of her book, "Santa Monica: 1950-2010," published in 2011 by Arcadia publishing. The proceeds from this book and another one about Santa Monica were donated to the museum.

Museum manager Kathryn Evans credited Gabriel with the museum's continued existence.

“As the museum grew, it was at her direction,” said told the Daily Press. “Her vision and leadership allowed the museum to thrive and to become an important part of the community.”

Gabriel is survived by her children, Susan Gabriel Potter, Robb Gabriel and Sharyl Gabriel Szydlik; grandchildren, Patrick Potter, Bryan Potter and Michael Szydlik; sisters, Josephine Van Buren and Elaine Bruner; and a number of nieces and nephews.

For more on Gabriel's life and work, visit the Santa Monica Daily Press.

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