Westminster Colony was established in 1870 by Presbyterian minister Rev. Lemuel P. Webber. It was one of the earliest settlements in what later became Orange County, California. Up until the late 1950s and 60s, it was a significant agricultural area, but the farmlands gave way to suburban tract homes during the county’s population boom. In 1947, it served as the backdrop for the landmark Mendez v. Westminster case, which contributed to the national dismantling of school segregation. Just over a century after its founding, Westminster became the heart of Orange County’s Vietnamese immigrant community, known as Little Saigon.

For over four decades, the Westminster Historical Society has served as a historical resource and community gathering place. Incorporated in 1974, the Society has curated a collection of historic buildings, equipment, photographs, and other artifacts documenting Westminster’s history. The Society’s future relies on the dedication of its members, and we hope you’ll play an integral role in our growth and development in the years to come.

Read more about Westminster Historical Society’s history here.

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