Efforts to establish a new history museum in Downtown officially began last month under the direction of a lifelong Angeleno whose family ties to the area extend back nearly forty years.

Christian Martinez, publisher of Downtown LA Life Magazine, began the venture in 2005 under the notion that Downtown’s unique and tumultuous history should be permanently showcased.

After garnering support from individuals, businesses and city officials, Martinez formed a private committee in September now functioning as the Downtown Museum Association (DMA), and has since gathered over $430,000 in start-up capital from private donations.

Monica Mendez, a spokesman for the DMA, tells angelenic a time line for completion is anticipated between fall 2009 and spring 2010, depending on how quickly finances and a location can be secured.

“We do not seek government funding for this project. It’s the people’s museum, and it will be built by and for the people,” states Anna Maria Lopez of Downtown LA Life Magazine in a recent press release.

The proposed museum will exhibit and archive the history of Downtown through photography, maps, private documents, film and art.

Community pledges are currently being accepted.

Pictured above, 7th Street from Hill facing west, circa 1927.