HISTORY

Malibu was originally home to the Chumash Indians for approximately 4,000 years. The beach near the mouth of Malibu Creek was given the name "Humaliwo," which means "the surf sounds loudly."

Frederick Ringe, a Los Angeles businessman, bought the 13,000 acres of what is now Malibu in 1891 with the intention of establishing a tranquil farm near the sea. Ringe's legacy was passed to his wife, May when he died in 1905. Their daughter, Rhoda, married prominent rancher, Merritt Adamson and May gifted Rhoda 15 acres of land around Surfrider Beach. Together, they built a 5,000 square foot, two-story home overlooking the Malibu Lagoon and Ocean. Their mansion is now known as the Adamson House, a popular landmark.

In 1926, May opened Malibu for development. Malibu Colony was created shortly after and was one of the first areas with private homes. Hawaiian-Duke Kahanamoku taught the sport to early Malibu surfers in 1927. The Duke was a good friend of Ronald Colman and had starred with him in movies. Colman built #16 in 1926-27, one of the first of The Colony beach homes.