FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

September 21, 2005

Contact Sharon Weisman
Phone:  818 248 4967    
email:  sharon@jetcafe.org    

Weatherwolde Castle Property and Entire Oak Glen Ranch Recommended as Historic Landmarks by Los Angeles Cultural Heritage Commission.

TUJUNGA - The Los Angeles Cultural Heritage Commission met today before a standing room only crowd to review Mary Lou Pozzo's applications to have Weatherwolde Castle and the Oak Glen Ranch declared Historic Landmarks.  Despite claims by current owners that the 1928 Castle was not worthy of preservation, the Commissioners, led by President Mary Klaus-Martin, were obviously impressed with the unique charm of the main building.   The unanimous vote followed staff recommendation to include the grounds in the declaration of historic status, although much of the yard and landscaping had been cleared away in the past few weeks.

The Little Landers Historical Society, Crescenta Valley Heritage, and the Los Angeles Conservancy made brief presentations in support of landmark status for the building and surrounding grounds.  Photographic evidence of what has been destroyed since the June 15, 2005 change of ownership highlighted how the recently demolished outbuildings and walls fit with the remaining structure as a complete historic environment.   The huge, enveloping oak trees,  now stumps a few feet tall, and walkways and ponds hand-crafted from the local natural river rocks gave proper perspective to the house.   One of the speakers in favor of landmark status expressed a desire to buy and restore the home and property to its earlier glory.  

Although the staff recommended landmark status for the Oak Glen Ranch home, a 1923 Craftsman, the grounds were not included.  After hearing presentations by the owners, a potential buyer who wishes to create a living history museum, the Little Landers Historical Society and the Los Angeles Conservancy, the Commissioners included the grounds in their second unanimous approval for landmark status.   These recommendations now move to a Planning and Land Use Management Committee review prior to coming before the Los Angeles City Council.

Taking to heart Commissioner Richard Barron's admonishment that historic structures should be located and their status confirmed prior to plans to demolish, Crescenta Valley Heritage invites all those interested in preservation to our next meeting September 26, 2005 from 6 to 7:45 p.m. at the Montrose Library, 2465 Honolulu.  Forms will be available to help document historic structures.  The group is gathering a list of potential landmark buildings throughout the Crescenta Valley and will work with the various cities and Los Angeles County to guard their future.  Featured speaker is Sharon Raghavachary, member of the Crescenta Valley Town Council, who will discuss the zoning in unincorporated La Crescenta and Montrose.   Call 818 248 4967 for more information.