Christine Sterling, a determined woman who recognized the value of the old historic buildings, and cherished the Spanish and Mexican heritage of the city, rescued the Avila Adobe from demolition. The city's oldest landmark, it has become the focal point of Olvera Street, which began a new life as a Mexican American marketplace in 1930. In 1953 efforts to preserve the area resulted in the creation of a state historic park. Together the State of California and the County and City of Los Angeles purchased the buildings and land around the plaza. In 1989 the Park was turned over to the City of Los Angeles and the Monument, as it is now called, is run by the City.
Plans are underway to further restore and develop the historic buildings.
Upon his expulsion from Mexico for political activity in 1932, the Mexican artist, David Alfara Siqueiros, settled in Los Angeles for six months. During that short time, he completed three murals. We will see this powerful political statement, which was executed along the exterior of the second floor of the Italian Hall, where the Plaza Art Center was located.