Our Mission
The Napa Artisan Legacy Project advances public education, cultural preservation, and community engagement by protecting and celebrating the land, traditions, and craftsmanship that define Napa Valley and Northern California.
Our mission brings together two distinct but connected forms of stewardship: the conservation of agricultural land and natural resources that support food, wine, and regional culinary traditions, and the preservation of significant antique, classic, and vintage automobiles as expressions of history, design, engineering, and heritage travel.
Each depends on thoughtful stewardship to carry its legacy forward for the next generation.
Through educational programs, public events, exhibitions, charitable partnerships, and interpretive experiences, we encourage the responsible appreciation of these cultural, agricultural, and historical resources. By connecting the conservation of the land with the preservation of historic automobiles, we help ensure that both remain meaningful, accessible, and enduring for future generations.
Our Heritage
Agricultural Heritage
Conserving Napa Valley's vineyards, farmland, and agricultural traditions, while recognizing the growers, ranchers, and farmers who steward the land.
Wine, Food & Hospitality
Celebrating the vintners, chefs, farmers, and hospitality professionals, whose knowledge and craftsmanship shaped Napa Valley experience.
Automotive Heritage
Preserving significant vintage automobiles by celebrating the artisans, skills, and craftsmanship that keep their history alive through education and community engagement.
Our Story
The Napa Artisan Legacy Project was founded on the belief that Napa Valley’s heritage should be preserved, celebrated, and shared. What began with a passion for historic automobiles and the distinctive character of wine country grew into a broader mission to support the land, traditions, craftsmanship, and communities that define the region.
The organization developed alongside the Napa Valley 750, an annual gathering that brings together significant vintage automobiles for a journey through Napa Valley. Through scenic routes, winery experiences, exceptional hospitality, and charitable partnerships, the event connects automotive history with the agricultural and cultural heritage of wine country.
Today, the Napa Artisan Legacy Project uses events, education, and community partnerships to create meaningful impact. Its work honors the people who care for the land, celebrates Napa Valley’s food and wine traditions, and helps preserve significant automobiles and local heritage for future generations.
Leadership
Jonas R. Kaufman
Richard H. Kaufman
Founder, Board chair
Co-Founder, operations
Founder of the Napa Artisan Legacy Project, Rick brings together his commitment to Napa Valley, community stewardship, hospitality, and significant vintage automobiles.
Jonas helps shape the project’s identity, communications, and public outreach, bringing the mission to life through storytelling, events, and engagement with a new generation.
Vern E. Lakusta
secretary
Andrew H. Garay
Drawing on his leadership at Harvest Inn, Vern advises the project on hospitality, guest experience, event operations, and partnerships throughout Napa Valley.
co-founder, treasurer
Andrew provides business and strategic guidance, supporting the project’s long-term planning, partnerships, and continued growth within the Napa Valley community.
Help Preserve Napa's Legacy
Support educational programs, community partnerships, and experiences that deepen understanding and appreciation of Napa Valley’s land, traditions, people, and historic automobiles. Your involvement helps share this heritage, preserve its stories, and inspire future generations to value and carry it forward.