President’ s Message— continued from p. 2 President Calvin Coolidge spoke to an estimated 200,000 visitors. In his speech he noted“ The historical importance of this immortal document is measured by the progress of the Republic”.
The Bicentennial in 1976 had wide support across the nation. A national effort to recognize the 200th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration was led by the American Revolution Bicentennial Administration( ARBA), which was funded by congress. 284 national programs covered a wide range of civic and cultural topics. A 26 car American Freedom Train brought a stirring documentary to 138 cities on an epic 24,000 mile journey. Nearly 100 sailing ships paraded through New York Harbor over the Bicentennial weekend— the largest gathering of world navies in history.
Cities that established programs could qualify to be designated as an official Bicentennial city. Mountain View qualified for the designation. A committee was started in March of 1975 to plan the many events scheduled for 1976. A kite flying contest, special city medallions, a rodeo, lectures, fire hydrant painting and a special day long 4th of July celebration were among the programs created.
Learn more by attending the August 9 MVHA history event.
This year the lack of local, state and national commemoration activities does not lessen
1976 the important concepts of the Declaration and how it launched the founding of our country. And even though July 4th has passed, we can still celebrate the founding of the country throughout this year. Perhaps learning more about the Declaration and quiet reflection would be the best way to mark the 250th anniversary of our nation.
History Happening Now
June 11, 2026
On a very hot June 11 afternoon eight new historic art panels were officially dedicated. Located on both sides of the train station, the panels represent a two year journey led by Anita Rosen. It was a complicated endeavor because three agencies were involved.
In her speech at the ceremony Rosen said“ Caltrain owns the land, Mountain View owns the building and VTA is the tenant.” Anita Rosen heads a non-profit organization called Arts Mountain View. The group aims to install art installations on public and private buildings in Mountain View.
Created by artist John Patrick Thomas“ Mountain View through Time: Eight Windows into our History,” the panels depict local history as well as flora and fauna. The Mountain View Historical Association and the Visual Arts Committee consulted with the artist and Anita on themes and details.
Each panel has a QR code that explains the content of the panel. A majority of the funding came from a grant from VTA, 30 % from the city and a small remainder from Arts Mountain View.
Members of the MVHA board attended the dedication ceremony.
MVHA Board Members, L – R: IdaRose Sylvester, Robert Cox, David Salinero, Pamela Baird and Carol Donahue
Treasurer’ s Report
Through Q2, 2026— Anthea Chung, Treasurer
Treasurers Report Second Quarter Ended June 30, 2026 The Association remains in a strong financial position. As of June 30, 2026, we have $ 81,952 in total assets, no liabilities, and continue to maintain healthy cash reserves. Year-to-Date Results Year-to-date, we generated $ 3,732 in revenue and incurred $ 1,236 in expenses, resulting in a net operating surplus of $ 2,496. Membership dues remain our largest source of revenue. Our largest expense category continues to be Marketing and Events($ 830), primarily newsletter printing and postage, which supports member communications. Budget vs. Actual( Through June 30) Through the first six months of the year, the Association has achieved 72 % of its annual revenue budget($ 3,732 of $ 5,210) while spending only 20 % of its annual expense budget($ 1,236 of $ 6,240). Overall, the Association remains in a strong financial position and is tracking favorably against budget.
Respectfully submitted,— Anthea Chung, Treasurer Mountain View Historical Association
Membership Report
Two annual members have upgraded to the lifetime membership category— Carol Donahue and Debbie Kundrat. New members are Steven McMoyler, Joyce Larsen( who also donated $ 100) and Leigh Winter.
We appreciate your support.
To join, or renew, you can always mail in the form( see page 9) with a check or visit— www. mountainviewhistorical. org / memberships /
Please consider becoming a lifetime member. It’ s easy and you won’ t have to remember to send your dues each year!
Membership dues help us with our ongoing expenses— hosting meetings, newsletter production, mailing costs and insurance.
SUMMER
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