November 1, 2007

RECENT PAST ADDED TO ONLINE HISTORICAL RESOURCES

Pasadena history buffs and preservationists have a new resource on the city’s website.
Information on Pasadena buildings designed and constructed in the recent past, 1935-1965, and their noteworthy architects is now available at www.cityofpasadena.net.

Titled “Cultural Resources of the Recent Past Historic Context Report,” the document was prepared by Historic Resources Group and Pasadena Heritage with federal funding administered by the State of California Office of Historic Preservation’s Certified Local Government program.

Hard copies of the Historic Context Report are available for review at the Permit Center, 175 N. Garfield Ave., window #4, along with copies of a companion survey by city staff that lists 500 local properties associated with the 1935-1965 time period.

The information will be useful for city decision makers when determining historical significance, especially when buildings are proposed for designation or to be demolished or altered.

Architectural styles from the period, including Mid-century Modern, California Ranch and Minimal Traditional styles, are defined and placed into the context of overall development in the city, with an emphasis on residences.

Included are a chronology of important activities, key influences and an analysis of trends and patterns that established Pasadena as a distinct urban community.
Also listed are local practitioners—architects such as Buff and Hensman and Richard Neutra, builders, developers and landscape architects--known to have played an important role in the development of Pasadena during the recent past, with brief descriptions of their work.

For more information call (626) 744-7806.