At its core, Napa County Landmarks (Landmarks) is dedicated to protecting and promoting the region’s rich architectural and cultural heritage. Through education, community programs, and preservation advocacy, the organization ensures that Napa’s historic buildings, neighborhoods, and sites remain a vibrant part of the landscape. “Napa County Landmarks focuses on ‘big picture’ preservation buoyed by community partnerships throughout the region,” said Executive Director and architectural historian Christine Madrid French.
“We elevate the stories and the people behind our landmarks, from world-class wineries to small businesses and historic homes, to support the vitality of our built landscape.” The organization owns the historic First National Bank (built in 1916) in downtown Napa, home to the popular eatery Ristorante Allegria for over twenty years. It offers everything from walking tours and architecture exhibits to youth outreach initiatives.
Its bilingual My Napa Coloring Book reached more than 14,500 students. The group also awards $1,000 scholarships annually to 15 local students pursuing higher education, totaling more than $44,000 since 2019. Landmarks plays a critical role in preservation efforts countywide, offering guidance to property owners and helping them navigate economic incentive programs like the Mills Act. Advocacy for adaptive reuse—blending historic preservation with forward-thinking solutions that support cultural tourism and economic opportunity—is central to their mission.
Through collaborations with organizations like the Napa County Historical Society and the City of Napa Economic Development Division, Landmarks amplifies the stories of the people and buildings that shaped the region. The newly launched “Est. 20” program, which honors long-standing local businesses as living landmarks, exemplifies this broader commitment.
Christine Madrid French, Executive Director of Napa County Landmarks
“Our goal is to make Napa County’s past feel accessible and alive for everyone,” said French. “When we care for historic places, we support the region’s identity, economy, and the people who live, work, and visit here. We want people to engage with the history of the buildings around them in meaningful and memorable ways. A community that honors its past is better prepared for the future—and we’re here to help make that future possible.”
