Speaker Rob Brown will discuss “Madame Helena Modjeska: Her Life & Legacy,” at the next meeting of the Orange County Historical Society on Thursday, October 8, 2026, 7:30 p.m., at Trinity Episcopal Church, 2400 N. Canal St., in Orange. The public is welcome and the church will be delightfully cool!
photo courtesy of Orange County Archives
Brown will explore Modjeska’s remarkable story, from her birth in Poland and rise to stardom on the European stage, to her immigration to the U.S., to the unlikely events that brought her to make her home in Santiago Canyon. Along the way, he’ll introduce the colorful people, places, and events that shaped her story and helped establish her as one of the most celebrated actresses of the 19th century. The program will also examine Modjeska’s pioneering role in the rise of the modern female celebrity, including the use of her name and image in commercial branding, and her influence on American acting and theater. Attendees will also have a rare opportunity to view items from Brown’s personal collection of Modjeska memorabilia and collectibles.
photo courtesy of Rob Brown
Rob Brown was born and raised in Orange County. After moving to Modjeska Canyon in 2016, he developed a deep interest in Orange County’s rich pioneer history and the story of the canyon’s namesake. In 2021, he began volunteering at the Helena Modjeska Historic House and Gardens, where he leads tours. Rob is a member of the Tustin, Saddleback, and Orange County Historical Societies and serves on the board of the Helena Modjeska Foundation. He also runs the popular Facebook history group “Shadows of Old Saddleback,” and shares Orange County history on both Facebook and YouTube as the “Orange County History Guy.”
Please join the Orange County Historical Society on Thursday, October 8, 2026, 7:30 p.m., at Trinity Episcopal Church, 2400 N. Canal St., in Orange to learn more about this fascinating actress and her impact on Orange County and Southern California. Bring a friend or two!