There are many ways to create a lasting legacy at the Marin History Museum (MHM). One of the most meaningful — and one that costs nothing to give today — is through a planned gift. Your foresight helps ensure that Marin’s stories, artifacts, and heritage are preserved and shared for generations to come.
The Legacy Giving Circle
Donors who make a planned gift to the Marin History Museum are recognized as members of the Marin History Museum Legacy Giving Circle, honoring those whose generosity safeguards our county’s cultural treasures. Members are invited to special museum events and gatherings celebrating the enduring impact of legacy donors who share a passion for history, learning, and community.
Why Legacy Giving Matters
• A planned gift to the Marin History Museum: Preserves Marin’s cultural heritage for future generations
• Protects and cares for the largest historical collection in the county — over 20,000 artifacts and 200,000 photographs
• Expands educational programs for students, families, and older adults
• Supports exhibitions and storytelling that reflect Marin’s diverse history
• Ensures long-term sustainability for the museum and its mission
Ways to Create Your Legacy
Wills and Living Trusts
Create a lasting impact by including the Marin History Museum in your will or living trust. It’s simple to arrange and costs nothing today. (Ask us for sample language for your will.)
Beneficiary Designations
You can name the Marin History Museum as a beneficiary of your IRA, 401(k), 403(b), donor-advised fund (DAF), life insurance, or other financial accounts. Simply request a beneficiary designation form from your plan administrator. Tax-deferred assets left to MHM may be exempt from certain taxes.
Gifts That Provide Income and Require More Planning
Charitable Gift Annuities
Receive fixed annual payments, an immediate tax deduction, and the satisfaction of supporting Marin’s history. This type of gift can supplement retirement income and, if funded with appreciated securities, may reduce capital gains tax.
Charitable Remainder Trusts
Convert appreciated assets — such as real estate or securities — into lifetime income while receiving a tax deduction and creating a lasting impact on the preservation of Marin’s heritage.
Other Legacy Gift Options
Charitable Lead Trusts
Support MHM now and provide for loved ones later. Your trust donates to the museum for a set period of time, after which the remaining balance passes to your beneficiaries - ensuring your philanthropy benefits both family and community.
Real Estate Gifts
You may donate real estate to the Marin History Museum to reduce taxes, eliminate ownership costs, and provide vital support for historical preservation. MHM may accept homes, properties for sale, life estate agreements (allowing you to live in your home for life), or partial-interest gifts.
Join the Marin History Museum Legacy Giving Circle
Thank you for considering joining the Marin History Museum Legacy Giving Circle — a community of forward-thinking supporters committed to preserving Marin’s history, heritage, and cultural identity for generations to come.
For more information, please contact:
Sue Hagan, Board Treasurer, info@marinhistory.org
Tax ID: 94-1642459