OUR HISTORY

The vision for Monte Vista Grove (MVG) came from James Marwick, the co-founder of the accounting firm KPMG (formerly known as Peat Marwick). He had a passion for ensuring that retiring clergy and missionaries of the PCUSA were provided for when they retired from a life of ministry and caring for others. 
With the blessing of the Synod of California, James Marwick selected the property at 2889 San Pasqual Street in East Pasadena as the location for Monte Vista Grove and in 1924, the Synod purchased the land. At the time of purchase, the fifteen-acre property had majestic oaks and 7.5 acres of orange trees. There was one, two-story ranch house which provided housing for the first residents. The site was described as being “far enough out to escape the noisome rush of the city” and yet close enough for residents “to avail themselves of Pasadena’s cultural opportunities.”