Glendale’s Martial Arts History Museum is marking its 27th year as the only institution of its kind in the world, a distinction that supporters say places the Southern California city on the map for cultural tourism, history and education. The museum, which relocated from Burbank to an 8,000-square-foot facility on Brand Boulevard at Wilson Avenue, has drawn thousands of visitors from across the country and around the globe, with the majority of its visitors arriving from outside the United States.
The museum’s growth has been guided by its president, Michael Matsuda, with key support from local figures including Mayor Ardy Kassakhian and Eric Fleishman, who spearheaded the move from Burbank to Glendale. The expanded location has allowed the institution to develop into a multi-cultural hub that, beyond honoring traditional Asian martial arts, history and art, features special exhibits celebrating Armenian heritage, Native American history, Celtic traditions and the legacy of Warrior Women.
“We are honored to call Glendale our home,” Matsuda said. “It took tremendous vision and hard work to build this cultural gem in the heart of the city, and our goal is to ensure it remains a cornerstone of Glendale’s artistic and educational identity for decades to come.”
The museum’s future in the city is not yet settled. Its current lease has less than two years remaining, and the institution is preparing to hopefully relocate to another facility within Glendale. A fundraising effort is being launched to help raise enough funds for the move. The museum operates as a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization and relies on community donations, sponsorships and support to fuel its expansion and outreach programs.
Beyond historical preservation, the museum functions as a community resource, hosting specialized outreach programs for local senior centers, individuals living with dementia and people with special needs. Plans for the upcoming new facility include dedicated spaces for health and wellness lectures, senior Tai Chi classes and expanded community workshops. “We offer so much more to Glendale than people realize,” Matsuda said. “We bring global tourism to Brand Boulevard, preserve living history, and provide compassionate outreach to our local seniors and special-needs residents.”
The museum is open Wednesday through Sunday from 11:00 AM to 6:00 PM, with admission priced at $12 for adults and $5 for children. It is located at 201 N. Brand Blvd., B100, at Wilson Ave. in Glendale. As reported by NEWMEDIAWIRE, those interested in learning more, donating or planning a visit can find details at MAmuseum.com. The original release is available on www.newmediawire.com.
The stakes extend beyond one building. With a lease deadline approaching and a fundraising campaign just beginning, the museum’s ability to remain in Glendale will determine whether the city keeps a globally unique attraction that draws international visitors to Brand Boulevard and sustains outreach for seniors, dementia patients and special-needs residents. For a city that counts the Alex Theatre and the Museum of Neon Art among its cultural treasures, the museum’s next move will test how firmly it intends to hold onto a destination found nowhere else.
