La Senora Research Institute

The La Senora Research Institute is a 501c3 non-profit organization dedicated to research, education, and preservation of the rich history of the Rancho Era of Early California under Spain, Mexico, and the United States.

Nestled into Santa Monica Canyon, our Hacienda is located on land originally part of Rancho Boca de Santa Monica, the 1839 Mexican Land Grant to Francisco Marquez and Ysidro Reyes. Jose Mojica, a Mexican Opera star who became, through his 20th Century Fox films, “The Valentino of Mexico”, built the Hacienda as his home in the 1920s.

The Institute conducts research, presents concerts (classical and jazz) and historic lecturers. It also screens classic films, and even has an historic dance club. Student staff members participate in all types of events.