Over the years an extensive collection of international arts and crafts were brought to Pilgrim Place by its residents, who came from all over the world, and other donors. In 1968 interested Claremont citizens organized the "Friends", dedicated to preserving and exhibiting these treasures-recognized in the 1980s as a community asset in need of a permanent location. With the combined efforts of the Friends, residents and the support of noted local artists including Richard and Alice Petterson, the dream of an intercultural arts center was realized with the opening of the main gallery in 1983.