Los Angeles preservation group marks half-century with home tour

The Windsor Square Hancock Park Historical Society opened the garden of a Tudor-style home at 101 N. Hudson Ave. on Oct. 10 to mark 50 years since its founding. The event brought together members and guests to review the organization's role in preserving the built environment of the Greater Rancho La Brea area.

Homeowner Bret Hankey and partners Jamie Olguin, Cici Hankey, and Craig Strong of the Craig Strong Group hosted the gathering. They decorated the property for the holiday season and provided the venue for the anniversary celebration.

The group traces its roots to a period of decline for local historic homes. During the 1970s, many residences in Windsor Square and Hancock Park were abandoned or demolished. Local attorney Sid Adair and Jane Gilman formed the society to increase appreciation for these neighborhoods. They recruited realtor Pat Hug to expand membership. The organization incorporated as a non-profit on May 18, 1976.

Its mission statement calls for preserving the history of the area while generating a supporting community spirit. Early activities focused on opening doors to historic properties. The first tour included the Van Nuys mansion at 357 S. Lorraine Blvd. The society has since hosted events at the Los Angeles Tennis Club, Wilshire Country Club, and the Getty House.

Fundraising efforts supported various preservation projects. In 1979, members held a private view of the Treasures of Tutankhamun. The group also organized trips to Hearst Castle and hosted theatrical performances in member homes. These events generated funds for landscaping at firehouses, schools, and libraries.

The society contributed money toward the restoration of the Getty House and the Larchmont median signage. It also funded the LAPD Wilshire Division Fallen Officers Monument. Under the leadership of former president Fluff McLean, the group conducted studies of hundreds of historic houses. Members recorded oral histories from the community's oldest residents.

The organization supported the creation of Historic Preservation Overlay Zones for Windsor Square and Hancock Park. It also presented annual Landmark Awards to recognize specific architectural features. Jane Gilman, a co-founder and former owner of the Larchmont Chronicle, spoke on the evening's founding story.

Jason Greenman, of the Windsor Square Association, addressed the crowd on the value of the neighborhood's public spaces. He noted that thousands of people use the park-like blocks daily for walking, running, and cycling. Greenman stated that the scale of the neighborhoods, trees, and architecture draws residents and visitors alike.

The society continues to operate as an active non-profit. Its current leadership includes president Richard Battaglia. The organization maintains a website at wshphs.com for those interested in joining.