HomeMy WebLinkAbout2023-05-08; Historic Preservation Commission; ; Historic Plaque ProgramMeeting Date: May 8, 2023
To: Historic Preservation Commission
From: Mike Strong, Assistant Director of Community Development
Staff Contact: Mike Strong, Assistant Director of Community Development
Mike.strong@carlsbadca.gov, 442-339-2721
Subject: Historic Plaque Program
Recommended Action
Receive overview of various types of plaque programs and provide feedback as necessary.
Executive Summary
This report provides an overview of some of the historic plaque programs in the country to help
facilitate discussion about creating such a program in Carlsbad. The Community Development
Department is requesting the Historic Preservation Commission provide preliminary direction
on the content and structure of the program.
This item is included in the existing HPC Work Plan and the 2023-2024 Draft HPC Work Plan
(“Develop a Plaque Program for historic locations and other opportunities”).
Discussion
Plaque programs provide one of the most effective and least expensive ways of promoting
historic awareness and promoting public appreciation for historic properties. A plaque program,
organized and administered by a local agency and/or a historical society, involves the
recognition and landmarking of local historic properties through the use of plaques. Generally,
there are two overall types of plaque programs: 1) interpretive and 2) recognition. Both types
of programs involve the recognition and landmarking of local historic properties. In recent
years, an increasing number of local agencies and historical societies have established such
programs, often as a means of enhancing community outreach and historical awareness.
•Interpretive. An interpretive program involves the landmarking of historic sites using
markers with customized wording describing the historic resource. Interpretive signs are
designed to give the reader more in-depth information or content to inform the public
of the site’s significance or to capture the memory of people and events. Because these
plaques are unique to each historic site, they are made individually, one at time, and
tend to cost more money to produce. Owners of buildings install the plaque often on
the side of a building or structure. However, as an alternative roadside marker could be
used as a special type of way-finding or interpretive markers. Larger (and more
expensive) than the usual interpretive plaque, roadside markers permit the
communication of more detailed information. Typically, these are mounted on a post
HISTORIC PRESERVATION COMMISSION
May 8, 2023 Item #3 Page 1 of 29
Staff Report
adjacent to the historic site, unlike plaques, which are mounted on the wall of a
building/structure.
• Recognition. A recognition program involves the landmarking of historic sites with less
wording and content. Recognition plaques tend to be less expensive since they have
little or no customized wording. Often, historical recognition plaques mainly offer and
identify the original year of construction and location. For example, the National
Register plaque used for recognition usually is inscribed with the following wording:
“This property has been placed on the National Register of Historic Places by the United
States Department of the Interior.” A more sophisticated (and expensive) recognition
plaque includes the name of the building, construction date, or reference number
printed either below or above the standard wording.
Some examples of each type of plaque program are provided as a reference in Exhibit 1. There
are also some plaques that have already been installed at city locations to assist historians in
educating the public about significant properties in the city (Exhibit 2).
The Historic Preservation Commission is being asked to discuss at a high-level the type of
program it would like to recommend for implementation. If the primary program objective of a
plaque program is community education, the “interpretive” type of program would be most
appropriate. Furthermore, a plaque program of this sort can be used as a basis for a walking
tour. If the objective of the program is either outreach and/or a low-cost solution, then a
recognition program may be more suitable. Secondly, the Historic Preservation Commission
should also provide feedback on whether or not it wants a consistent plaque format or whether
the selection of the format will be left up to the individual purchaser. If one of the objectives of
the program is to increase community awareness of the activities of the historical society, then
it may be important that all plaques ordered through the program are of a consistent format.
While a plaque program offers a highly visible way to educate the community about historic
preservation, its effectiveness will ultimately depend on its implementation. To facilitate a
discussion about what a local plaque program could look like in the city, a conceptual plaque
program outline has been drafted to facilitate Commissioner discussion (Exhibit 3). While the
staff report exhibit provides some high-level information, additional information may need to
be obtained from others with plaque program experience or from suppliers specializing in
historic landmarks to complete Commissioner review and input.
Fiscal Analysis
There is no direct fiscal impact associated with receiving this informational report. In terms of
plaque program implementation, more information is needed to assess fiscal impacts. After the
Commission provides feedback on this item, city staff will further evaluate and report back on
potential implementation costs.
As of this writing, no budget has been allocated to support this program. Direct and indirect
costs associated with implementing a plaque program would likely require funding support.
Possible funding sources for the program include the General Fund or grant funding. Any
implementation costs would need to be carefully vetted as part of any expenditure request or
program recommendation to the City Council.
May 8, 2023 Item #3 Page 2 of 29
Environmental Evaluation (CEQA)
Pursuant to Public Resources Code Section 21065, this action does not constitute a “project”
within the meaning of the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) in that it has no
potential to cause either a direct physical change in the environment, or a reasonably
foreseeable indirect physical change in the environment, and therefore does not require
environmental review.
Public Notification and Outreach
This item was noticed in accordance with the Ralph M. Brown Act and was available for public
viewing and review at least 72 hours prior to scheduled meeting date.
Exhibits
1. Historic Preservation plaque examples
2. Existing historic preservation plaques in the city
3. Draft plaque program example
May 8, 2023 Item #3 Page 3 of 29
Exhibit 1
NON-EXHAUSITVE LIST OF INTERPRATIVE AND RECOGNITION PLAQUE PROGRAMS IN OTHER CITIES
This memo provides an overview of historic interpretive programs in order to facilitate discussion about
creating such a program in Carlsbad. Some cities allow the property owner to write the text, order,
install and pay for the plaque. Other cities are responsible for writing the text, ordering and paying for
the plaque with the property owner responsible for installation.
Example: Escondido CA, Plaque Program
The city uses an oval bronze plaque with “City of Escondido Local Historic Register” and the date of the
home’s construction to those properties that are on a local register. The Old Escondido Historic District
offers a $100 rebate for one plaque per property to property owners whose homes are located in the
Old Escondido Historic District. To qualify for the rebate, the city verifies the age of the home - realty
listing information is not adequate. Property owners submit a request and receive further instructions
for ordering the plaque from the foundry and a rebate form.
Example: City of San Diego, CA Plaque Program
Landmark property owners receive a letter encouraging them to display a plaque. The letter details
plaque specifications, including shape, size, color and information the plaque must contain (such as
historical name, date, and landmark number). Staff may be contacted to verify the historical
information. The property owner may choose to order a plaque from the four listed companies as prices
may vary from company to company. An example illustration of a plaque with dimensions is included
with the letter.
Example: City of Tampa, FL Plaque Program
Property owners submit an application to the city. If the building is a contributing structure located
within a local district or designated as part of a multiple properties listing, the plaque awarded will read
“Historic Property” with the appropriate circa date. If the structure is a designated local landmark, the
plaque will read “Historic Landmark” with the appropriate circa date. The plaque is constructed from
bronze and is 6 inches in diameter. All lettering and the City of Tampa seal on the plaque is in a raised
lettered format and features a black background with a pebbled finish. Installation hardware is included.
The City of Tampa is not responsible for damage caused to the plaque during installation, improper
maintenance, aging, or theft. When the plaque arrives, the Architectural Review & Historic Preservation
office will contact the applicant for pick up.
Example: City of Madison, CT Plaque Program
The Madison Historical Society offers its Historic Plaque Program to owners of all town properties that
predate 1930. In addition to the name of the Madison Historical Society, each plaque lists the date of
the building construction and the name of the original owner. To qualify for a plaque, the building must
be visually recognizable as an historic building, and its history must be documented according to
Madison Historical Society procedures. The dating of a structure is done by deed research (and other
primary source information) as well as by an architectural review. Deed research is conducted by an
experienced historical consultant often working in tandem with an architectural historian who provides
the necessary architectural expertise for dating Madison's historic homes and other structures.
May 8, 2023 Item #3 Page 4 of 29
The plaque is a rectangular tablet, approximately 12" by 18", with the name of the Madison Historical
Society in the lower right corner. The plaque lists the date of construction of the building and the name
of the original builder of the structure or the surname of the family who owned the building for the
longest period of time.
Example: City of Covington, KY Plaque Program
The property owner must sign a letter of agreement with the city in which the owner agrees to maintain
the structure’s historic integrity. City staff assists with wording on the plaques. Plaques are ordered by
the city and property owner reimburses the city for the plaque. The property owner is responsible for
picking up the plaque from the city and installing it. The city provides installation instructions that
include a suggested mounting location and instructions for mounting on masonry or wood.
Example: City of Philadelphia, PA Plaque Program
The Historical Commission authorizes property owners to install specially‐made cast metal plaques on
historically‐designated buildings, structures, sites, objects, and interiors that are in restored condition.
The Commission’s staff reviews and approves the application if the property is designated as historic and
in restored condition. If the property is not designated or not in restored condition, staff directs the
applicant on the steps to take to qualify the property for a plaque. Once a plaque application is
approved, the Commission issues a letter to a specific plaque manufacturer authorizing it to sell a
plaque to the applicant and issues a letter to the applicant with directions for purchasing a plaque. The
applicant must submit photographs of all façades visible from the public right‐of‐way with the
application form for review by the Commission and staff. The plaque may only be displayed on the
building or structure for which it is issued. If it is lost or stolen, the owner must notify the Philadelphia
Historical Commission of its loss. A new plaque may be issued upon approval of a new application.
Example: Alabama Historical Commission Plaque Program
The Alabama Historical Commission (AHC) historical marker program began in 1975 to assist Alabama
historians and historic preservationists in educating the public about historically significant properties in
the state. Markers are plaques are manufactured in the “Georgia” pattern. Historical markers are
available in two sizes, small (24”h x 30”w) or large (30”h x 42”w) and come standard with a 7’ post (a 10’
post is available for an extra charge of $25). The Alabama Historical Commission seal is used as the
emblem in the crest. The person ordering the marker is responsible for sending payment directly to the
manufacturer for each marker. The current price for a marker ranges from $1570 to $2790 depending
on the size of the marker and the amount of text. A mountable plaque is also available for purchase.
The plaque measures 16”h x 16.5”w and also features the Alabama Historical Commission seal as the
emblem in the crest. The cost is $500, which includes mounting hardware and delivery. All future
maintenance of historical markers is the sole responsibility of the applicant.
Example: Coney Island Wayfinding Kiosks
A program of nine wayfinding kiosks placed along Coney Island Boardwalk with each kiosk incorporating
a map with park facilities locations, landmarks such as the Parachute Drop, the Cyclone and Keyspan
Park, as well as historical photos with background anecdotes related to each kiosk area.
May 8, 2023 Item #3 Page 5 of 29
Example: City of Chicago Landmark Districts
Signage 18” x 30” metal signs are installed on light poles by Chicago Department of Transportation
(CDOT). Signs are generally created and installed in the order of when the district was established. All
content and design is provided by the Commission on Chicago Landmarks and staff.
Example: City of Berkeley Historical Plaque Project Website
In 2012 the Berkeley Historical Plaque Project, a non‐profit group started in 1997 to document
Berkeley’s history through plaques identifying locations of historical importance, launched a website
documenting its work, www.berkeleyplaques.org. On the mobile friendly website, plaques are
categorized by geographic areas and linked to interactive Google maps. Texts are accompanied by
historic photos and links to external articles, lectures, and videos. “e‐Plaques” virtually document
historic buildings, homes of notable Berkeley residents, and unique natural phenomena. Crowd‐sourcing
is used to expand the texts and photos.
Example: Connect Historic Boston Program
Connect Historic Boston, www.connecthistoric‐boston.org, makes walking, biking, and taking public
transportation to National Park Service sites and other destinations easy, fun, accessible, and
convenient with discovery along the way. Connect Historic Boston is an initiative between the National
Park Service (NPS) and the City of Boston’s Transportation Department. The initiative proposes upgrades
to the built environment along the streets, sidewalks, and bridges that link transit stations to park
destinations; and explores new tools for wayfinding including digital applications, traditional maps, and
navigational markers in the landscape such as architecture, art, sound and signage. Partners will include
historic sites, advocates for walking and biking, neighborhood associations, and government agencies
that will help promote the Connect Historic Boston initiative as the way to get around downtown Boston
May 8, 2023 Item #3 Page 6 of 29
Exhibit 2
May 8, 2023 Item #3 Page 7 of 29
Alt Karlsbad/Frazier's Well
2802 Carlsbad Boulevard
Current location of "historic site" plaque is unknown. The Polaroid photos belo~ dated 1992, were
located in the Carlsbad History Collection at the Georgina Cole Library.
1992 1992 2019
Alt Karlsbad Well
Built in 1953 as a replica of Well No. 9 in Karlsbad Czecholslvakia, this well replaced the 1885 well dug by homesteader John Frazier.
It was the chemical similarity of Frazier's well water to the mineral water of Karlsbad Well No. 9 that led to the name for the new
town of Carlsbad.
Carlsbad Historic Site No. 5
Designated 1988
Carlsbad City Library Report: Plaques at Historic Sites in Carlsbad (as of January 2020) Page 1
May 8, 2023 Item #3 Page 8 of 29
Army Navy Academy/Red Apple Inn
2585 Carlsbad Boulevard
Red Apple Inn/Army and Navy Academy
Following the realignment of Coast Highway, the Red Apple Inn was built in 1927, one of three lodging establishments built fronting
the new State Highway 101. The lnn1s popularity waned during the Depression and the building was sold. In 1936 the original
restaurant and lodgings were leased and later purchased by the Davis Military Academy of Pacific Beach, changing their name at
that time to the Army and Navy Academy. As the military school outgrew the original structures, a campus construction program
was begun and following World War II, classrooms, dormitories, and a large gymnasium/auditorium were added.
Courtesy of the City of Carlsbad Historic Preservation Commission
Carlsbad City Library Report: Plaques at Historic Sites in Carlsbad (as of January 2020) Page 2
May 8, 2023 Item #3 Page 9 of 29
Barrio
3292 Roosevelt Street (Lola 1 s Market)
The Heart of the Barrio
The intersection of Walnut and Roosevelt (2nd Street) has been the heart of Carlsbad's Barrio since the turn of the 20th century.
Clustered here at various times were grocery stores, a pool hall, and a restaurant. Many original Barrio residents found a home in
the "neighborhood" after the Mexican Revolution.
Courtesy of the City of Carlsbad Historic Preservation Commission
Carlsbad City Library Report: Plaques at Historic Sites in Carlsbad (as of January 2020) Page 3
May 8, 2023 Item #3 Page 10 of 29
Calavera School Site
Calavera Hills Community Park
In 1988, the Historic Preservation Commission requested a "graphicN plaque to be placed at the
Calavera Hills Community Center. The framed artwork below is not currently on display at the
Community Center. The photograph of the artwork was provided via email by Community Center staff.
In 2014, the Calavera Schoolhouse Community Garden, located at the southeast corner of Calavera
Hills Community Park, was established. The plaques located at the entrances to the garden, include a
photograph of the historic schoolhouse and gives thanks the Historic Preservation Commission.
Welcome to the Calavera Schoolhouse Community Garden
... The garden is named for the historic Calavera Schoolhouse. The school was located nearby from 1896 to 1919. It was moved here
by the Marron, Kelly and Borden families for 35 children. The school building was sturdily built with walls of lath and plaster and an
exterior of redwood siding. Eaves, troughs and downspouts captured rain which flowed into an underground cistern. Each child had
a small garden, about four by eight feet, nurtured by rainwater from the cistern.
Carlsbad City Library Report: Plaques at Historic Sites in Carlsbad (as of January 2020) Page 4
May 8, 2023 Item #3 Page 11 of 29
Carlsbad Theatre
3822 State Street
The Carlsbad Theatre
The Carlsbad Theatre had its grand opening on February 8, 1927 with a showing of the film 11lt" starring Clara Bow. Mr. A.J. Clark,
the developer and manager, hosted the ceremonies. The Theatre featured a full stage, fly gallery, orchestra pit, pipe organ, and
flyable movie screen. The original cost was $40,000. In 1939 it was renamed the Iris Theatre and in 1943 it was known as the Sylvia
Theatre. The Samuels family owned and operated the Theatre from 1946 to 1961, known then as the Carlsbad Theatre. The Donald
C. Dunham family purchased the Theatre in 1961 and showed movies until the late '80s. Renovated in 1999, the Carlsbad Village
Theatre serves the community as a multipurpose entertainment venue for live stage and music performances, group meetings, and
large cinema screen presentations.
Courtesy of the Carlsbad Historic Preservation Commission
Carlsbad City Library Report: Plaques at Historic Sites in Carlsbad (as of January 2020) Page 5
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May 8, 2023 Item #3 Page 12 of 29
Carrillo Ranch
6200 Flying Leo Carrillo Lane
Plaque located outside of "Caretaker Residence"
Leo Carrillo Ranch
{Rancho de los Kiotes)
Between 1937 and 1940, these adobe and wood buildings were built by actor Leo Carrillo as a retreat, working ranch, and tribute to
old California culture and architecture. The Leo Carrillo Ranch, with its flying "LC" brand, originally covered 2,538 acres and was
frequented by Carrillo and his friends until 1960. Leo Carrillo was a strong, positive, and well loved role model who sought to
celebrate California's early Spanish heritage through a life of good deeds and charitable causes.
California Registered Historical Landmark No. 1020
Plaque placed by the State Department of Parks and Recreation in cooperation with the City of Carlsbad, Friends of Carrillo Ranch,
and Squibob Chapter, E Clampus Vitus, August 6, 1996.
Rancho de los Kiotes has been placed on the National Register of Historic Places [by the United States Department of the Interior]
Carlsbad City Library Report: Plaques at Historic Sites in Carlsbad (as of January 2020) Page 6
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May 8, 2023 Item #3 Page 13 of 29
Culver Myers Capp House
3140 Highland Drive
Current location of "historic site" plaque is unknown. The photo of the plaque belo~ dated 1992, was
located in the Carlsbad History Collection at the Georgina Cole Library.
1992 2019
Culver Myers Capp House
Alonzo Culver built this house in 1887. From 1936 to 1965 it was the home of Gertrude Myers, a beloved Carlsbad artist. The house
was subsequently restored by the Capp Family in the 1970s.
Carlsbad Historic Site No. 4
Designated 1986
Carlsbad City Library Report: Plaques at Historic Sites in Carlsbad (as of January 2020) Page 7
May 8, 2023 Item #3 Page 14 of 29
El Camino Real Bell
Corner of State Street and Grand Avenue
El Camino Real Bell
El Camino Real began in San Diego and followed a coastal route later named Highway 101. In the early 1900's, bells were placed on
this route to guide travelers to nearby Spanish Missions. This is an exact replica of the original bell and is considered a significant
historical symbol.
Courtesy Carlsbad Historic Preservation Commission
Carlsbad City Library Report: Plaques at Historic Sites in Carlsbad (as of January 2020) Page 8
May 8, 2023 Item #3 Page 15 of 29
Gage House
3080 Lincoln Street
Luther Gage Home
1924
Subject
Carlsbad Art Symposium
1964
Carlsbad City Library Report: Plaques at Historic Sites in Carlsbad (as of January 2020) Page 9
May 8, 2023 Item #3 Page 16 of 29
Gaus House
3442 Roosevelt Street
Gaus House
Built in 1929, this house is of significance not only for its architectural style, a bungalow with craftsman elements, but because of
the association with the owner/builder, Louis Gaus. Gaus was the only electrician in Carlsbad during the 1920's and he built many
local homes and installed wiring in a majority of the commercial buildings. He also helped build the Union Church. This house was
relocated from 3162 Jefferson St. to make room for expansion of the church.
Courtesy of the Carlsbad Historic Preservation Commission
Carlsbad City Library Report: Plaques at Historic Sites in Carlsbad (as of January 2020) Page 10
May 8, 2023 Item #3 Page 17 of 29
Highway 101
various locations
In 1999, money from the Historic Preservation Commission budget was used to purchase Historic U.S.
Highway Route 101 signs from Ca/Trans. The Commission identified sites for installing the signs to
designate Highway 101's path through Carlsbad. Signs are located at the northern border of Carlsbad
near the Army and Navy Academy, the Encina Power Plant and at the southern border of Carlsbad.
Carlsbad City Library Report: Plaques at Historic Sites in Carlsbad (as of January 2020) Page 11
May 8, 2023 Item #3 Page 18 of 29
Hosp Grove
2240 Jefferson Street
Early in 1908, F.P. Hosp & Partners planted 40,000 eucalyptus seedlings creating this grove. They hoped to satisfy Santa Fe Railroad's
needs for wood for railroad ties. Following a citizen vote in 1987, 53 acres of the grove were acquired by the City of Carlsbad.
Coupled with the previously dedicated parkland, a total of 74 acres known as Hosp Grove remains today as parkland and open
space. The 5.5 acres where this plaque now stands were dedicated in December of 1995.
Plaque courtesy of the Carlsbad Historic Preservation Commission and the Parks and Recreation Commission
Carlsbad City Library Report: Plaques at Historic Sites in Carlsbad (as of January 2020) Page 12
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May 8, 2023 Item #3 Page 19 of 29
Ledgerwood House
3862 Carlsbad Boulevard
Charles Ledgerwood
Carlsbad's Seed Man (1906 1999)
Charles Ledgerwood came to Carlsbad in 1933 and built his home on this site. His home was a store from which he dispensed seeds
and gardening wisdom for 67 years. He served this community on the Board of Directors of the Sanitation District; on the City
Planning Commission; on the City Council from 1956 58; and was Carlsbad's 7th Mayor from 1958 60. Charles Ledgerwood was
loved and respected for his community service, integrity, and caring for others.
Carlsbad City Library Report: Plaques at Historic Sites in Carlsbad (as of January 2020) Page 13
May 8, 2023 Item #3 Page 20 of 29
Magee House
258 Beech Street (Magee Park)
[Tiles on plaque, from left to right, read:
The Carlsbad Historical Society; Carlsbad Heritage Celebration 100; City of Carlsbad, California; Carlsbad Historic Walking Tour]
The Magee House
Samuel Church Smith, one of the original founders of Carlsbad, built this house in 1887. Sold to Alexander Shipley in 1896, it
remained his family's home until 1974, when it was bequeathed to the city by his daughter, Florence Shipley Magee.
Carlsbad City Library Report: Plaques at Historic Sites in Carlsbad (as of January 2020) Page 14
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May 8, 2023 Item #3 Page 21 of 29
Ramirez Bungalow
3309 Roosevelt Street
Ramirez House
This house is highly significant for its association with the growth of the Mexican American community in Carlsbad. During the
Mexican Revolution in 1916, many Mexicans immigrated to this area to find work and a better life. Those who settled in Carlsbad
formed the backbone of agricultural development in the city. Many became local homeowners and developed their own
neighborhood. This intersection was the center of the neighborhood. Pablo Ramirez was one of the first settlers in the area and he
built this house in 1918.
Courtesy of the Carlsbad Historic Preservation Commission
Carlsbad City Library Report: Plaques at Historic Sites in Carlsbad (as of January 2020) Page 15
May 8, 2023 Item #3 Page 22 of 29
Santa Fe Depot
400 Carlsbad Village Drive
[Tiles on plaque, from left to right, read:
Dedicated by Carlsbad Business and Professional Women, September 12th 1987; Carlsbad Heritage Celebration 100; City of
Carlsbad, California; Carlsbad Historic Walking Tour]
Carlsbad Santa Fe Depot
Original Depot built in 1887 and also served as Telegraph, Wells Fargo, Post Office and General Store. Renamed "Carl" from 1907 to
1917, it became the hub of local agriculture about 1915. The last passenger train stopped in 1957 and it was closed in 1960.
Carlsbad City Library Report: Plaques at Historic Sites in Carlsbad (as of January 2020) Page 16
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May 8, 2023 Item #3 Page 23 of 29
South Coast Land Company
2956 State Street
{~') ·, . ~'.·,:--:-.:-.-'. ;· . .-,:~.:,,:>>~, •-.:',;·,·:<~:J.(,:.,-; .. __ =.;.:( .,,.,:~ ,., {~•--.·
· so u,;~.c~~iliitl~~;~:$~t~~y · · ·
This small ·one-sto·ry: building . was associated : wfth the
South Coast La~d Company, the firm l~fgely responsible
for the early 20th Century growth of Carlsbid .. This
company was formed in 1914 and the building was
likely consrrucied at about that time. When first built,
it was one of just a few miscellaneous buildings
scattered along what was then First St. (now State St.).
Now dwarfed by total infill, this :.mall and unobtrusive
building symbolized the development of Carlsbad.
COURTESY OF THE CARLSBAD HISTORIC PRESERVATION COMMISSION
South Coast Land Company
This small one story building was associated with the South Coast Land Company, the firm largely responsible for the early 20th
Century growth of Carlsbad. This company was formed in 1914 and the building was likely constructed at about that time. When
first built, it was one of just a few miscellaneous buildings scattered along what was then First St. (now State St.). Now dwarfed by
total infill, this small and unobtrusive building symbolized the development of Carlsbad.
Courtesy of the Carlsbad Historic Preservation Commission
Carlsbad City Library Report: Plaques at Historic Sites in Carlsbad (as of January 2020) Page 17
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May 8, 2023 Item #3 Page 24 of 29
St. Michael's Episcopal Church
2775 Carlsbad Boulevard
The first church built in Carlsbad was St. Michael's By the Sea Episcopal Church. Originally erected in 1894 overlooking the ocean on
Oak Avenue, the quaint Gothic structure was moved to its current site in 1959 when Florence Shipley Magee donated an adjacent
site for a new church.
Original redwood paneling, oak pews, and a Victorian pump organ are all still in good condition. The only alterations are a new
entry, replacing one which led directly into the choir area at the front of the chapel, and a new heating and airconditioning system.
Far from being a relic of the past, the chapel is used for regular Sunday and weekday services as well as for weddings and funerals.
Plaque Courtesy of the Carlsbad Historic Preservation Commission
Carlsbad City Library Report: Plaques at Historic Sites in Carlsbad (as of January 2020) Page 18
May 8, 2023 Item #3 Page 25 of 29
Twin Inns/Schutte House
2978 Carlsbad Boulevard
Twin Inns
This Victorian structure was built in 1887 for Gerhard Schutte, whose role in the development of the town led to his being called the
"Father of Carlsbad." Schutte and partners Samuel Church Smith and D.D. Wadsworth founded the Carlsbad Land and Mineral
Water Company and had as their vision "a town of small farms and gracious homes." To that end they bought 400 prime acres at
$40 per acre for development as a community. They laid out a townsite, lined roads with eucalyptus seedlings, and named the
streets. This property was converted to the Twin Inns Restaurant circa 1917 by Whiting and Reed and was purchased by Ed and
Neva Kentner in 1919. It was named the Twin Inns since the building was identical to the nearby Wadsworth Home, also used as an
inn. The building was extensively remodeled with a large octagonal dining room added in 1922. The Twin Inns was a popular
summer dining area, frequented by many of the Hollywood set after a day at the races and later figured prominently in Carlsbad's
history serving as the site of the first City Council meeting and deliberations on the City's incorporation. The building was also
famous for its fried chicken dinners, which were promoted by large plaster chickens out front. After 60 years as a family business,
the Twin Inns was sold in 1984 and became part of the Village Fair Shopping Center.
Carlsbad City Library Report: Plaques at Historic Sit~cin..Act!'e9yctifstheiifiarlsfflffl:I Historic Preservation Commission Page 19
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May 8, 2023 Item #3 Page 26 of 29
Twin Inns Gazebo
258 Beech Street (Magee Park)
Twin Inns Gazebo
Originally built in the garden behind the Twin Inns, this gazebo was donated to the City of Carlsbad by Neiman's Village Faire and
moved to Rotary Park in 1990. It was restored through the generous assistance of the Carlsbad Evening Rotary Club.
Relocating the Gazebo
In 2007, the gazebo had fallen into disrepair and was facing demolition. A group of Carlsbad Hi Noon Rotarians and community
leaders, led by L. John Simons, assembled to consider moving and restoring the gazebo. With help from many in the community,
and support from the City of Carlsbad, the Hi Noon Rotary moved the gazebo off site, restored it, and ultimately relocated it to a
new home at Magee Park in 2010.
Carlsbad City Library Report: Plaques at Historic Sites in Carlsbad (as of January 2020) Page 20
May 8, 2023 Item #3 Page 27 of 29
Twin Inns Granary
258 Beech Street (Magee Park)
The Twin Inns Granary
Originally built by Eddie Kentner, proprietor of the world famous Carlsbad Twin Inns, this granary was donated to the City of
Carlsbad by Neiman's Village Faire and moved to Magee Park in 1985. It was restored through the generous assistance of the
Carlsbad Evening Rotary Club.
Carlsbad City Library Report: Plaques at Historic Sites in Carlsbad (as of January 2020) Page 21
Exhibit 3
1/6/09
DRAFT OUTLINE (EXAMPLE)
Historic Preservation Commission – Historical marker plaque program
Program Goals & Objectives
• Recognize and landmark local historic resources, sites and location of events or persons
that are significant in the area of architecture, archaeology, Carlsbad history and
traditional culture.
• Promote preservation and rehabilitation of historical properties, sites and structures.
Program Form
Standardized Plaque:
• Bronze metal, dark green finish 11 x 17 w/rear & front rosettes for mounting
• Content includes a brief description of the significance of the resource and a metal photo
when available (text in sentence case structure)
• Includes at the bottom of each plaque
“PROPERTY & COURTESY OF THE CITY OF CARLSBAD HISTORIC PRESERVATION COMMISSION”
Program Criteria
Two options for resources, structures, and sites (one or/and the other):
A) Option 1 (City sponsored/funded program)
1) Eligibility: meet all of the following criteria:
o Be of a significant age relative to the founding of the city
o Have importance/significance in the “collective memory” of the community by
qualifying as the “first” of its kind in the city (i.e. first post office, first school, etc.)
o Represent the cultural history of the region or the city
2) Process of identifying plaque locations:
o Historic Preservation Commission may identify up to 3 sites each year to be
presented to the City Council for approval
o Private Citizens may nominate sites by submitting recommendation in writing to
the Historic Preservation Commission
o The Commission will retain responsibility on which sites to recommend to
Council
3) Potential conditions, agreements and responsibilities:
o Obtain permission to place historical marker plaques in the right-of-way or
develop a letter requesting permission to place the marker on private property at
no expense to the owner.
o Draw up an informal agreement stating the program is voluntary with no
restrictions on the property and no requirements of the owner now or in the future
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other than to return the plaque to the City of Carlsbad in the event they remove it
from the current location.
o Allow for input from property owner on content, provided it meets established
criteria.
o Installation method to be site specific and, if on private property, approved by
property owner.
4) Fiscal impact: Implementation costs associated with a plaque program would be
based on the type of program. Historic Preservation Commission expenses have been
historically listed as a budget line item under the Library & Cultural Arts’
Departmental budget. An annual budget expense would have to bet established and
adopted with the annual budget adoption. The cost of the plaque would be paid
directly to the marker company or by offering a rebate to the plaque’s purchase.
B) Option 2 (Applicant funded program)
1) Eligibility: be listed in the Local Register
2) Process of identifying plaque locations: limited to those listed in the Local Register
3) Potential conditions, agreements and responsibilities: considered as part of the
historic designation process.
4) Fiscal impact: Mountable plaques would be made available for purchase. In most
cases, the plaques would be paid by the owners of these properties. Individuals and
organizations would have to have available funds to purchase it before an order
request is submitted to the marker company.
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