We’re remembering and honoring the lives of the people who called Sonoma Developmental Center (SDC) home. The Eldridge Memorial now stands on the SDC property. The SDC opened in 1891 and through the years supported more than 45,000 Californians with developmental disabilities and mental health diagnoses. The new memorial includes the names of more than 1,400 people laid to rest at the cemetery. Their names were carefully documented over the decades by SDC’s staff. There is a viewing platform and an accessible parking area to welcome visitors to reflect and appreciate the serenity and importance.
In May, Director Nancy Bargmann joined state leaders, family members, advocates, and former SDC staff for the dedication of the Memorial at the Eldridge Cemetery. Thank you to Kathleen Miller, the families and advocates, Senate President pro Tempore Mike McGuire, Senator Bill Dodd, Susan Gorin, Christian Pease, Tracy Salcedo, Chaplain Kathy Speas, Disability Rights California, and the California Department of General Services staff who turned this vision into a reality.
