WELCOME TO THE RAMONA TOWN HALL
1894
The Ramona Town Hall was generously donated to the townspeople of Ramona by Augustus and Martha Barnett on Washington’s Birthday, February 22nd, 1894. It is held in trust in perpetuity by a volunteer five-member board of trustees. The Board of Trustees does not own the Town Hall, nor is it a public agency ~ the people of Ramona, CA, own it.
Original Benefactors: Martha and Augustus Barnett. “As the story goes, Augustus thought it improper for dances to carry on all night at the schoolhouse, and that the growing town needed a place to serve that purpose as well as a library.”The Ramona Town Hall was donated to the town people of what was then Nuevo on Washington’s Birthday, February 22, 1894, by Augustus and Martha Barnett.
The People's Hall
Ramona Town Hall
1894 to Present
Things have changed over the years. Watch as the Ramona Town Hall has grown with the community.
THE RAMONA TOWN HALL
Original 1894 Trust Deed
The Ramona Town Hall is one of the oldest and last original Town Halls in California, and is registered as a State Historic Landmark. The Ramona Town Hall is one of the largest and oldest adobe structures in the entire Southwest, and features a Romanesque/Mission Revival architecture, a style unique to its architect, William Sterling Hebbard (1863-1930)
A Tribute to Ramona
The history of the Ramona Town Hall is a story worth telling and celebrating—a tribute to a town that cherishes its past and honors the traditions that have shaped its strong sense of community. It stands as a reminder of the Barnett family’s vision, generosity, and belief in the power of gathering. They understood that in a small town, people need a place to come together, to celebrate milestones, holidays, successes, and friendships.
Recently, the original 1894 Trust Deed for the “Nuevo” Town Hall was discovered in a safe deposit box that had been undisturbed for nearly 4 decades. Here is a scan of the document:
State Historic Landmark
Because of their dedication, the people of Ramona have always had a place to meet, to laugh, to support one another, and to feel at home. The Town Hall is more than a building; it is a symbol of unity, resilience, and the enduring spirit of a community that continues to thrive because of the foundations laid long ago.
Welcome home
Just like in the days of old, today we celebrate our community at the Ramona Town Hall with events for the community, with the community, and about the community.
PLAN YOUR NEXT EVENT AT THE RAMONA TOWN HALL
WEDDINGS • BIRTHDAYS • SHOWERS • SPECIAL OCASSIONS • MOVIE NIGHT • HEALTH FAIRS • VIEWINGS • MEETINGS • CRAFT FAIRS • WORK SPACE
Upcoming Events
For over 100 years, the Town Hall has operated solely on fundraisers, grant monies, private donations, and rent collected for its use. The Town Hall has served as the town’s first library, first movie theater, first high school, first bank, dance hall, justice court, and the birthplace of several of the community’s service groups, including the Masonic Lodge, the Chamber of Commerce, and the Volunteer Fire Department.
Each month, our hall is filled with community members who love our historic space and what it brings to the community. We have events happening each month, from chair yoga, musical entertainment, movies, historic tours, and more!
PRESENTATION
CRAFT FAIRS
HOLIDAY EVENTS
Frequently Asked Questions
Who owns the Ramona Town Hall?
You do! Each resident of Ramona owns the Town Hall. It was set by the original owners ~ Augustus and Martha Barnett, that the hall would be the People's Hall. It's managed in perpetuity by a five-member board of trustees, as designated in the original 1894 Trust Deed.
How long does it take to drive to Ramona?
It takes about 45 minutes from downtown San Diego, and 25 minutes from Poway, Rancho Bernardo, and Escondido. It makes for a beautiful country drive on a sunny afternoon.
Is the Town Hall a government agency?
No, the Town Hall is not a government agency and has no jurisdiction over building permits, lost dogs, impounded vehicles, marriage licenses, etc.
Can the Town Hall be used for private parties?
Yes, we can host private parties for groups up to 100 guests when using both East and West Wings or you can rent the large hall. Visit our Rantals page to learn more.
Is the Town Hall Haunted?
No ghosts have been found to date, but on some nights, some have seen a dark silhouette leaving by the back door. Maybe you should come by and see for yourself.
Is there history in Ramona?
Yes! So much history – The Ramona Town Hall has been around since 1894. I was donated to the community by Martha and Augustus Barnett. Stop by for a visit to tour the historic building or join one of our events.
What's historic in San Diego?
San Diego boasts many historic locations, including the Ramona Town Hall, which has operated since 1894. Visit Ramona and dive into the fun Western history of horses, turkeys, and agriculture that remain alive today.
Are there fun things to do in Ramona?
Ramona is a historic town with a heartfelt community that continues the traditions of old. Along with its history, it offers music most nights, wine tasting, farm-to-table dining, coffee houses, farm stands, and animal sanctuaries. You won't be disappointed!
DID YOU KNOW?
The original 1894 Trust Deed for the “Nuevo” Town Hall was discovered in a safe deposit box that had been undisturbed for nearly 4 decades.
For over 123 years, the Town Hall has relied exclusively on fundraisers, grant money, private donations, and rental fees collected for the hall ~ the People's Hall.
The Ramona Town Hall has always been more than a building—it has been a home. A place restored, cherished, and kept alive by the very community it serves. Just like any family home, its doors have always been open. Inside, neighbors lifted one another up, gathered to share stories, celebrated victories, and found comfort during difficult times.
From its earliest days, the Town Hall was built as a gathering place, and through every season—joyful or challenging—it has remained the heart of Ramona. Generations have cared for it with loving hands, repairing, rebuilding, and preserving its legacy so it can continue to welcome the next generation.
Ramona is a strong town—rooted in community, passion, and heart. And the Town Hall stands as a testament to that spirit.
Be part of the team that keeps this historic treasure thriving:
• Donate Today
• Volunteer at the Hall
• Rent Space for a Special Occasion
• Join tours, classes, events, and more
Start Date: July 2025
Funds Raised to Date: $12,000
Goal: $50,000 ($38,000 in need)
Restore the Ramona Town Hall Roof
the People's hall
2025 | RAISE THE ROOF FUNDRAISER
CAMPAIGN CLOSED
The Ramona Town Hall was added to the National Register of Historic Places on September 6, 1994.
CURRENT
2026 | LIGHT THE NIGHT FUNSRAISER
Restore the Ramona Town Hall Roof
Fundraiser by: Soroptimist Int'l of Ramona
Start Date: July 2026
Goal: $38,000
(Details to come)
Subscribe to our newsletter
STAT UP-TO-DATE ON EVENTS AND HAPPENINGS AT THE RAMONA TOWN HALL
Become Part of the Team
Volunteer
Join a Team
Garden Club
Expertise
If you have time, talent, or expertise to share, we would love for you to join us in continuing this legacy. Your involvement helps ensure that this historic gathering place remains vibrant, welcoming, and alive for generations to come.
Ramona Town Hall is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit charity that relies solely on donations, grants, and rental fees to maintain the historical building.
Ramona Town Hall
729 Main Street, Ramona CA 92065
PHONE
1-619-738-0034
© 2026. All rights reserved
Mail to:
Ramona Town Hall
PO Box 1954
Ramona, CA 92065
Ramona Town Hall is a 501(c)(3) charity nonprofit that relies solely on donations, grants, and rental fees.
The Ramona Town Hall was added to the National Register of Historic Places on September 6, 1994.
Drone shots by Caroline Goulard
Designed by Michelle Kellehe