The Hall of Fame was created in 1989 as part of Vista Heritage Week, to honor significant people and their achievements that have enriched Vista’s vibrant history. Currently, it features more than 60 members. Inductions were made in each of the next three years, ceasing in 1992 and starting again in 1995, at which time the Vista Historical Society received custody of the photographs. Upon completion of the Museum, the Historical Society began to display the Hall of Fame members' portraits in the museum.
From 1995-2008, new members of the Hall of Fame were chosen by the Historical Society during even-number years and inducted into the Hall of Fame at the Society’s annual meeting. A maximum of two people (married couples counting as one), living or deceased, are added every even-numbered year. In 2007, the Early Residents Division was added on odd-numbered years to posthumously honor persons who have died at least 20 years previously. Since 2016 both divisions have been added every year.
CARL THOMAS “SLICK” DAVIS
1928-1982
EARLY RESIDENTS DIVISION 2022
EPIIFANIO S. TAPIA & VIRGINIA R. TAPIA
REGULAR DIVISION 2022
VISTA IRRIGATION DISTRICT BOARD OF DIRECTORS
EARLY RESIDENTS DIVISION 2023
GEORGE S. HENRY
JULES J. DELPY
F.J. “JACK” KNIGHT
HARRY S. MERRIAM
CHESTER D. GUNN