In addition to providing care for the elderly in our community, Ararat Home also works to promote Armenian culture and heritage.

Ararat-Eskijian Museum

Ararat-Eskijian Museum was founded in 1993 by architect, collector and genocide survivor Luther Eskijian with the purpose of preserving the rich heritage of the Armenian people. The ethnographic collection of documents, maps, classical Bibles, stamps, ancient coins, metalwork, paintings, needlework, garments, rugs and other historical treasures continually grows thanks to donations of heirlooms, books and artifacts from families and organizations within and outside the Armenian community.

In advancing its mission to collect, preserve and promote Armenian culture and history, Ararat-Eskijian Museum also serves as a center of living culture and education. Events such as exhibitions of art, photography and rugs, poetry readings, theatrical and musical performances, film screenings, international conferences, and illustrative talks by prominent scholars, authors, artists and speakers are regularly organized.

As a unique institution of Armenian culture and history, Ararat-Eskijian Museum collaborates with various scholars, organizations and other institutions on projects ranging from publications of scholarly and non-fiction works to theater and film productions. The museum also serves as a resource for individuals and scholars researching topics in Armenian history.

For more information, please visit www.ararat-eskijian-museum.com.

Armenian History Timeline

A line of colored tiles and etchings on the sidewalk of George & Tamar Abajian Lane in the middle of campus is a timeline portraying 5,000 years of Armenian history. The timeline begins with the Bronze Age in Armenian territories and ends in 1992 (when campus construction was completed) with the admission of the Republic of Armenia as a full member of the United Nations. It includes graphic depictions of historically significant figures, events and structures in Armenian culture.

While perusing the timeline, visitors may pick up an Armenian History Timeline brochure or purchase the companion Armenian History Timeline book. Written by Hagop and Marilyn Arshagouni and illustrated by Herach Hovsepian, the book provides succinct descriptions of the dates, individuals and events marked on the timeline. On its own, it offers a great overview of Armenian history and culture.

The book is the basis of the annual Armenian History Timeline Quiz Bowl, which is a competition organized and hosted by Ararat Home for eighth grade students from Los Angeles area Armenian day schools.

The Armenian History Timeline book would be a wonderful gift and a valuable addition to any library. The book may be purchased at Ararat Home by visiting in person, calling (818) 365-3000, or emailing info@ararathome.org.

George Deukmejian Cultural Center

The 525-person capacity Grand Ballroom in George Deukmejian Cultural Center hosts community and campus-wide events.

Sheen Memorial Chapel

Sheen Memorial Chapel is a 245-seat, inter-denominational house of worship that serves the spiritual needs of Ararat Home’s residents. Holy Mass as well as prayer and memorial services are regularly conducted by visiting priests and ministers throughout the year and on special occasions.

The chapel, built with an antiqued timber roof and natural masonry, was completed in 1994 and dedicated as a Christian house of worship. It was endowed by John H. Sheen (Geovkalayjian) in memory of his father and brother who perished in the 1915 Armenian Genocide.

The chapel was designed and constructed by architect and general contractor Luther Eskijian in a style resembling ancient Armenian churches. The brass cupola topped with a gold-plated cross can be seen towering over the museum-chapel complex even from areas surrounding the campus.