A number of Portuguese Americans have been prominent in contributing to the development of American culture and society. Benjamin Cardoza, the Supreme Court Justice (1932-1938), John Dos Passos (1896-1970), the author of the famous USA trilogy and other works on American society, and John Phillip Sousa (1854-1932), the composer of many of America’s best-loved marching songs, were men of Portuguese heritage who played important roles in the history of the United States.
The Portuguese Heritage Society of California has built this museum with the support of the community that it represents, local governments and organizations, and the Government of Portugal to serve as a center for the display of Portuguese heritage and culture. In addition to its permanent exhibits, it will house and host exhibits and cultural programs from various organizations and the many Portuguese communities in the United States and around the world.