Community Corner

Do You Know the History of Monrovia's 'Big M'?

The student body of Monrovia High School built the iconic M on the hillsides that overlooks the city.

The Monrovia Public Library's History and Heritage blog posted an explanation Tuesday of the origins of the "Big M" in the foothills north of city.

Here's how it came into being:
The Big M, that beacon on a hillside north of the Monrovia High School football field, was conceived and constructed by the student body under the direction of James Walters, student body president. The landowner, Mrs. James G. Davis consented to the construction of the Big M on her property. The work was supervised by the Monrovia Fire Department, Principal Max Forney and Vice-Principal Frank Williamson. Lumber was donated by local lumber companies, 25 tons of crushed rock were hauled to the site and 27 lights added the final touch. When the Wildcats win, the M lights up as a V.


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