The recent removal of two notable paintings from the historic Mission Inn in Riverside has sparked controversy and concern among local preservationists and community members. The dispute centers on the fate of artworks and artifacts linked to the hotel’s ownership and stewardship.

The Mission Inn, a National Historic Landmark, was sold on May 29 to the San Manuel Investment Authority, a tribal entity that operates several large hospitality properties. Prior to the sale, workers were observed removing two prominent paintings from the hotel lobby, prompting outrage among longtime supporters of the inn’s cultural heritage.

Mike Marlatt, a Riverside attorney and former Mission Inn Foundation board member, expressed community frustration over the apparent departure from prior agreements relating to the hotel’s contents. Ralph Megna, a former redevelopment official involved in facilitating the 1992 sale of the hotel to Historic Mission Inn Corp., also raised concerns. Megna stated that the original agreement, established when Duane Roberts purchased the inn more than 30 years ago, was designed to protect approximately 180 movable pieces of art and artifacts from removal. However, he acknowledged “shades of gray” in the interpretation and said that trust in previous custodians has been strained.

Conversely, the Roberts family’s attorney, Alan Jackson, defended the family’s actions, asserting that when Duane Roberts acquired the hotel, he purchased all items—paintings and antiques alike—as personal property. Jackson noted that when Kelly Roberts sold the hotel last month, she retained ownership of its contents and faced buyer conditions that necessitated removal of certain artworks, including the two disputed paintings and a sculpture honoring the couple. He confirmed the artworks remain in Kelly Roberts’s possession and indicated there are no plans to part with them.

The San Manuel Investment Authority declined to comment on contractual details but emphasized its commitment to working with the Mission Inn Foundation and the City of Riverside to preserve the inn’s historic significance. Several preservation advocates acknowledged this commitment but lamented the heightened tensions between the Roberts family and local heritage groups.

The Mission Inn’s significance stretches back to the late 19th century, when Frank Miller transformed a modest boarding house into an architectural complex renowned for its art and antiques collected from across the United States and Europe. Over the years, the hotel hosted presidential guests, including Richard Nixon and Ronald Reagan, further cementing its stature. Despite periods of decline and ownership changes, Duane and Kelly Roberts revitalized the property starting in the early 1990s, investing in restoration and establishing cultural traditions such as the annual Festival of Lights.

However, in recent years, the Mission Inn Foundation and Museum, which operated within the hotel for over three decades, left the premises following unresolved lease negotiations. Some of the hotel’s historic items—including a Steinway piano and several artworks—have reportedly disappeared over time, fueling further unease among preservationists.

City Council member Philip Falcone highlighted the cultural value of the removed paintings, noting their connections to California’s artistic heritage and the hotel’s presidential history. James Ranger, a longtime docent and tour guide, described the removal of the artworks as “traumatizing,” reflecting the broader community’s sense of loss.

With the sale completed, management has transitioned to Pyramid Global Hospitality, under the direction of the San Manuel Nation. Several changes to the hotel’s branding are already visible, including the removal of the Roberts family name from various venues and the closure of Casey’s Cupcakes. A spokesperson confirmed the Festival of Lights tradition will continue.

David Stolte, president of the Old Riverside Foundation, expressed optimism that the new owners will serve as responsible stewards while noting community concerns about the transition. Preservation advocates continue to seek transparency regarding past agreements governing the hotel’s contents, underscoring the complex interplay between private ownership and public heritage at the Mission Inn.