THE EDUCATION COMMUNITY
303 West Commonwealth Avenue, Fullerton, California 92832-1775 714) 738-6598 · Fax (714) 738-3110 · Website: www.cityoffullerton.com
CITYOF FULLERTON
Community and Economic Development Department
Item No. 2
November 13, 2024
6:30 p.m.
Public Hearing
TO: Chair Gambino and
Members of the Landmarks/ Planning Commission
APPLICATION
PRJ2024-00008: ZON-2024-0094 and LRP-2024-0013
APPLICANT
Fullerton Heritage on behalf of Michael and Veronica Nordstrom
LOCATION
156 Hillcrest Drive
SUMMARY AND APPLICATIONS REQUESTED
This application is a request to designate the property at 156 Hillcrest Drive as a Historical Local) Landmark (HL-112) with a corresponding request to amend The Fullerton Plan to add the property to Table 6 and Exhibit 3 of The Fullerton Plan, City of Fullerton Local Register of Historical Resources and Map of Historical Resources, respectively.
CEQADETERMINATION
Categorically Exempt (15331) - Historical Resource Restoration/Rehabilitation, which allows for the preservation and conservation of historical resources in a manner consistent with the Secretary of Interior's Standards for the treatment of Historic Properties with Guidelines for Preserving, Rehabilitating, Restoring, and Reconstructing Historic Buildings.
AUTHORIZATION/GUIDELINES
Fullerton Municipal Code ( FMC) Section 15.48.050 authorizes the Landmarks Commission to designate a property as a Historical ( Local) Landmark, after due consideration and a public hearing. The Landmarks Commission review shall consider the criteria specified in FMC Section 15.48.060, Criteria for Designation.
California Government Code Section 65353 establishes a procedure wherein the Planning Commission is authorized to consider a revision to the General Plan at a noticed public hearing and forward their recommendation to the City Council for final action.
Landmarks Commission Staff Report – Historical Landmark - 156 Hillcrest Drive November 13, 2024
Item No. 2 Page 2 PRJ2024-00008
PUBLICOUTREACH
On October 31, 2024, the City sent a Public Hearing Notice to owners and occupants of property within a 300-foot radius of the project site. Notification was posted at the project site on that same date. The notice was also posted on the City’s website and at the Maintenance Services Department, Main Library, Museum Center, and City Hall on the Public Notice Boards.
In addition, notice was published in the Fullerton News Tribune on October 31, 2024.
PROJECTBACKGROUND / HISTORY
Project Applicant: Fullerton Heritage
Property Owner: Michael and Veronica Nordstrom
Property Location: 156 Hillcrest Drive
General Location: West side of Hillcrest Drive, west of Lemon Street Parcel Number: 029-043-03
Existing Community
Development Type (General
Plan Land Use Designation):
Low Density Residential
Existing Zoning
Classification:
R-1-7.2P, Single Family Residential Preservation
minimum lot size of 7,200 square feet)
Site Size: 16,185 square feet
Circulation: Hillcrest Drive is a local street.
Parking: Detached garage accessed from Hillcrest Drive
Existing Conditions: The property is developed with a 1½-story Craftsman bungalow and detached garage constructed in 1917,
partially rebuilt in 1955 after fire damage; living room extension for fireplace completed in 1972; and interior alterations completed in 2024.
Surrounding Land Uses
and Zoning:
North, south and east: Residential properties zoned R-1-
7.2P.
West: social service facility/school, zoned O-P ( Office Professional).
PROJECT DESCRIPTION
The applicant, Fullerton Heritage on behalf of the property owner, is seeking designation of the property located at 156 Hillcrest Drive as a Historical ( Local) Landmark ( HL-112) with a corresponding General Plan Revision to add the property to the Local Register of Historical Resources (Table 6 of the Fullerton Plan) and to the Historical Resources – National and Local Map (Exhibit 3 of The Fullerton Plan).
ANALYSIS
FMC Chapter 15.48 ( Landmarks, Landmark Districts, Residential Preservation Zones, and Significant Properties) establishes the process for determining whether a site is worthy of designation as a Local Landmark. Such designation confirms that the historic, cultural, architectural, or aesthetic value of a property merits its preservation, restoration, and/or protection.
Landmarks Commission Staff Report – Historical Landmark - 156 Hillcrest Drive November 13, 2024
Item No. 2 Page 3 PRJ2024-00008
FMC 15.48.060, Criteria for a “Historical Landmark” designation, identifies the following criteria for determining eligibility:
1. Character, interest, or value as part of the heritage of the City.
2. Location as a site of a historic event.
3. Identification with a person or persons or groups who significantly contributed to the culture and development of the City.
4. Exemplification of a particular architectural style or way of life important to the City.
5. Exemplification of the best remaining architectural types in an area.
6. Identification as the work of a person or persons whose work has influenced the heritage of the City, the state of California, or the United States.
7. Embodiment of elements of outstanding attention to architectural design, detail, materials, or craftsmanship.
8. Relationship to other landmarks, where the preservation of one has a bearing on the preservation of another.
9. A unique location or singular physical characteristic representing an established and familiar visual feature of a neighborhood.
10. Integrity as a natural environment that strongly contributes to the well-being of the people of the City.
This property qualifies as a Local Landmark per criteria 7:
7. Embodiment of elements of outstanding attention to architectural design, detail, materials, or craftsmanship.
Fullerton Heritage provided background and research concerning this property (Attachment 2).
Highlights regarding notable residents, home designer and builder, and the architectural details.
Architectural Design: Craftsman bungalow, with Victorian and Colonial Revival elements The subject property includes a 1½-story Craftsman bungalow dwelling, historically named Louis E. Plummer House, and qualifies as a Fullerton Local Landmark for its significant architecture. The house is a fine example of a multi-story 1910s Craftsman bungalow, with Victorian elements. It has the distinction of one of the few extant dwellings designed and built by an early Fullerton contractor, William L. Campbell. Mr. Campbell was one of three significant builders in Fullerton in the 1910s, along with John Alva Ellis and Edward G. Schenck. Only a miniscule number of homes designed and built by these contractors survive. The subject property’s dwelling is the only surviving home identified as being built and designed by Campbell, a resident of Fullerton for 40 years.
The overall architectural style of the subject property’s dwelling is Craftsman, but Victorian and Colonial Revival elements are present as well. The exterior has several non-Craftsman elements – block pillars, expansive post bases, stuccoed walls instead of wood siding, arched glass windowpanes, etc. that result in a uniquely styled one-of-a-kind home. Overall, the dwelling has an inviting and charming design that reflects the 1910s. Now restored, and recently painted a historically accurate light green, the dwelling fits beautifully with the historic Hillcrest Drive subdivision laid out in 1913. The home still reflects its original design, materials, and fine workmanship.
Landmarks Commission Staff Report — Historical Landmark - 156 Hillcrest Drive November 13, 2024
A full description of the home's exterior and interior architectural details is provided in the Primary Record provided by Fullerton Heritage ( Attachment 2). The Primary Record also includes the historical background of the dwelling's original owner/occupant, Louis E. Plummer, designer and builder William L. Campbell, and notable later occupants/owners of the house.
LENVIRONMENTALREVIEW
In accordance with the California Environmental Quality Act ( CEQA) the recommended action is categorically exempt from environmental review per Section 15331 of the State CEQA Guidelines. This Class 31 exemption allows the preservation and conservation of historical resources in a manner consistent with the Secretary of Interior's Standards for the treatment of Historic Properties with Guidelines for Preserving, Rehabilitating, Restoring, and Reconstructing Historic Buildings.
RECOMMENDED ACTION
Pursuant to the findings and facts, including General Plan consistency, outlined therein, find that the project is categorically exempt from CEQA, and adopt Planning Commission Resolution No.
PC - 2024-36, entitled:
A RESOLUTION OF THE LANDMARKS COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF
FULLERTON, CALIFORNIA, DESIGNATING THE PROPERTY LOCATED AT 156 HILLCREST DRIVE ( HISTORIC LANDMARK NO. HL - 112) A LOCAL
LANDMARK AND RECOMMENDING THAT THE CITY COUNCIL APPROVE A
GENERAL PLAN REVISION TO MAKE CORRESPONDING AMENDMENTS
TO THE FULLERTON PLAN HISTORIC PRESERVATION ELEMENT, TABLE 6 - CITY OF FULLERTON LOCAL REGISTER OF HISTORICAL RESOURCES AND EXHIBIT 3 - MAP OF HISTORICAL RESOURCES - NATIONAL AND LOCAL
DATED: November 6, 2024
Prepared by. Reviewed by:
Andrew Kusch
Associate Planner Planning Manager
Chris Schaefer, AICP
Approved for Agenda by:
L.f Sunay4anaThomas
Director of Community and Economic Development
Item No. 2 Page 4 PRJ2024-00008
Landmarks Commission Staff Report – Historical Landmark - 156 Hillcrest Drive November 13, 2024
Item No. 2 Page 5 PRJ2024-00008
Attachments to Report
1. Draft Planning Commission Resolution No. PC-2024-36
2. Documentation in Support of Landmark Designation for 156 Hillcrest Drive
3. PowerPoint Presentation
PRJ2024-00008 – 156 HILLCREST DRIVE
Attachment No. 1
Draft Planning Commission Resolution No. PC-2024-36
RESOLUTION NO. PC-2024-36
A RESOLUTION OF THE LANDMARKS COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF
FULLERTON, CALIFORNIA, DESIGNATING THE PROPERTY LOCATED AT 156 HILLCREST DRIVE ( HISTORIC LANDMARK NO. HL-112) A LOCAL
LANDMARK AND RECOMMENDING THAT THE CITY COUNCIL APPROVE A
GENERAL PLAN REVISION TO MAKE CORRESPONDING AMENDMENTS TO THE FULLERTON PLAN HISTORIC PRESERVATION ELEMENT, TABLE 6 –
CITY OF FULLERTON LOCAL REGISTER OF HISTORICAL RESOURCES AND EXHIBIT 3 – MAP OF HISTORICAL RESOURCES – NATIONAL AND LOCAL PRJ2024-00008: ZON-2024-0094 AND LRP-2024-0013
APPLICANT: FULLERTON HERITAGE
PROPERTY OWNER: MICHAEL AND VERONICA NORDSTROM
RECITALS
WHEREAS, an application was filed for Local Landmark Designation of property located at 156 Hillcrest Drive, described as:
Orange County Assessor’s Parcel No. 029-043-03
WHEREAS, the Landmarks/Planning Commission of the City of Fullerton, California, in compliance with noticing requirements of Fullerton Municipal Code (FMC) Section 15.76.040, held a duly noticed public hearing on said application; and
WHEREAS, the project is categorically exempt from the California Environmental Quality Act ( CEQA) pursuant to CEQA Guidelines Section 15331 - Historical Resource Restoration/Rehabilitation, which allows for the preservation and conservation of historical resources in a manner consistent with the Secretary of Interior's Standards for the treatment of Historic Properties with Guidelines for Preserving, Rehabilitating, Restoring, and Reconstructing Historic Buildings.
RESOLUTION
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT FOUND AND DETERMINED AND RESOLVED by the Landmarks Commission of the City of Fullerton as follows:
1. In all respects as set forth in the Recitals of this Resolution.
2. The Landmarks Commission, pursuant to FMC Chapter 15.48, makes the following findings regarding the Landmark designation for the subject property:
a. Finding: The property located at 156 Hillcrest Drive is eligible for a Historical Landmark designation in accordance with the criteria identified in FMC Section 15.48.060.
Fact: The property meets eligibility Criterion 7 for the existing dwelling’s significant architecture. The house is a fine example of a multi-story 1910’s Craftsman bungalow, with Victorian elements. It has the distinction of one of the few extant dwellings designed and built by an early Fullerton contractor, William L. Campbell. Mr. Campbell was one Resolution No. PC-2024-36
2 -
three significant builders in Fullerton in the 1910’s, along with John Alva Ellis and Edward G. Schenck. Only a miniscule number of homes designed and built by these contractors survive. The subject property’s dwelling is the only surviving home identified as being built and designed by Campbell, a resident of Fullerton for forty years.
The overall architectural style of the subject property’s dwelling is Craftsman, but Victorian and Colonial Revival elements are present as well. The exterior has several non- Craftsman elements – block pillars, expansive post bases, stuccoed walls instead of wood siding, arched glass windowpanes etc. – that result in a uniquely styled one-of-a-kind home. The home still reflects its original design, materials, and fine workmanship. b. Finding: Designation of this property as a Historical (Local) Landmark is consistent with the goals and policies contained in The Fullerton Plan.
Fact: The Historic Landmark Designation of this property supports The Fullerton Plan, Policy 4.2 Awareness of Historic Resources which supports programs and policies to raise the awareness of the value of historic resources in strengthening communities, conserving resources, fostering economic development, and enriching lives.
Fact: The Historic Landmark designation of the subject property supports The Fullerton Plan, Policy 4.4 Historic Character and Sense of Place which supports actions to reinforce the character and sense of place of established neighborhoods. c. Finding: Property owner consent for the Historical Landmark designation has been granted pursuant to FMC 15.48.050.
Fact: The property owner has given written consent for the filing of the application for landmark designation.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED the Landmarks Commission does hereby APPROVE ZON-2024-0094 and LRP-2024-0013, designating property at 156 Hillcrest Drive as Historical Landmark HL-112 and recommends the City Council amend The Fullerton Plan Historic Preservation Element Table 6 – City of Fullerton Local Register of Historical Resources to add the property addressed 156 Hillcrest Drive as a Local Landmark and Exhibit 3 – Historical Resources Map – National and Local.
ADOPTED BY THE FULLERTON LANDMARKS COMMISSION ON NOVEMBER 13, 2024.
Peter Gambino, Chairman
PRJ2024-00008 – 156 HILLCREST DRIVE
Attachment No. 2
Documentation in Support of Landmark Designation for 156 Hillcrest Drive Resource Name or #: ( Assigned by recorder) Louis E. PlummerHousePage1 of 26 P1. Other Identifier: ___
DPR 523A ( 9/ 2013) * Required information
State of California The Resources Agency Primary #
DEPARTMENT OF PARKS AND RECREATION HRI #
PRIMARY RECORD Trinomial
NRHP Status Code
Other Listings
Review Code Reviewer Date
P2. Location: Not for Publication Unrestricted
a. County Orange and ( P2c, P2e, and P2b or P2d. Attach a Location Map as necessary.)
b. USGS 7.5' Quad Date 1917 T ; R ; of of Sec ; B.M.
c. Address 156HillcrestDrive City Fullerton Zip 92833
d. UTM: ( Give more than one for large and/ or linear resources) Zone , mE/ mN e. Other Locational Data: ( e.g., parcel #, directions to resource, elevation, decimal degrees, etc., as appropriate) P3a. Description: ( Describe resource and its major elements. Include design, materials, condition, alterations, size, setting, and boundaries)
Constructedin 1917, the1½-storyCraftsmanbungalowwasbuilt by local contractorWilliam L. Campbellfor educatorLouis E.
Plummerandhiswife Maude. Thestrikingdwelling is situatedin theHillcrest Drive Historic District establishedin 2015.1 Dubbed “EducationHill” or “EducatorHill” by FullertonUnion High SchoolandFullertonCollegestudents, thehistoricdistrict is notedfor thelargenumberof teachersandcampusadministratorswho residedin thearea (e.g., DonaldBrunskill, William T.
Boyce, Hiram HowardTracy, etc.).
Continuedon Page4
P4. Resources Present:
Building Structure Object
Site District Element of District
Other ( Isolates, etc.)
P5b. Description of Photo: ( view,
date, accession #) East (front) elevation
of house, June2024
P6. Date Constructed/ Age and
Source: Historic Prehistoric
Both
1917
P7. Owner and Address:
VeronicaNordstrom
156HillcrestDrive
Fullerton, CA 92833
P8. Recorded by: ( Name, affiliation,
and address)
Fullerton Heritage
P.O. Box 3356
Fullerton, CA 92834-3356
P9. Date Recorded:
P10. Survey Type: ( Describe)
P11. Report Citation: ( Cite survey report and other sources, or enter " none.") Attachments: NONE Location Map Continuation Sheet Building, Structure, and Object Record Archaeological Record District Record Linear Feature Record Milling Station Record Rock Art Record Artifact Record Photograph Record Other ( List):
P5a. Photograph or Drawing ( Photograph required for buildings, structures, and objects.)
NRHP Status Code
DPR 523B ( 9/ 2013) * Required information
State of California The Resources Agency Primary #
DEPARTMENT OF PARKS AND RECREATION HRI#
BUILDING, STRUCTURE, AND OBJECT RECORD
This space reserved for official comments.)
Sketch Map with north arrow required.)
Resource Name or # ( Assigned by recorder)
B1. Historic Name: LouisE. PlummerHouse
B2. Common Name:
B3. Original Use: Single-family
residence
Present Use: Single-family residence
B5. Architectural Style: Craftsmanbungalow
B6. Construction History: ( Construction date, alterations, and date of alterations) Built in 1917; partiallyrebuiltin 1955afterfire damage; living roomextensionfor fireplacecompletedin 1972; interioralterationscompletedin 2024 B7. Moved? No Yes Unknown Date: Original Location:
B8. Related Features: 1-cargaragedetachedfromresidence B9a. Architect: b. Builder: William L. Campbell
B10. Significance:
Theme: Craftsmanerahousing; earlyFullertoncontractors Area: HillcrestDriveHistoricDistrict Period of Significance: 1917 Property Type: Single-family residence Applicable Criteria ( Discuss importance in terms of historical or architectural context as defined by theme, period, and geographic scope. Also address integrity.) TheLouis E. PlummerHousequalifiesasa FullertonLocalLandmarkfor its significantarchitecture. Not only is thehomea fine exampleof a multi-story1910sCraftsmanbungalow, with Victorianelements, it hasthedistinctionof beingoneof thefew extant dwellingsdesignedandbuilt by anearlyFullertoncontractor, William L. Campbell.
Thedesigner/builderof this HillcrestDrive home, William L. Campbell, wasonly oneof threesignificantbuildersin Fullertonin the1910s, alongwith JohnAlva Ellis (1854-1952) andEdwardG. Schenck (1863-1947). Only a minisculenumberof homes designedandbuilt by thesecontractorssurvive. To date, theHillcrestDrive dwellingis theonly survivinghomeidentifiedas beingbuilt anddesignedby Campbell, a residentof Fullertonfor forty years.
Continued on page6
B11. Additional Resource Attributes: ( List attributes and codes) B12. References:
B13. Remarks:
B14. Evaluator:
Date of Evaluation:
Hil
lcrestDrive
Parceloutlined in red.
Subjectbuildingshaded
light blue. N
x
Map Name: AssessorParcelMap * Scale:* Date of map: _____________ DPR 523J (9/2013) * Required information
State of California - The Resources Agency Primary #
DEPARTMENT OF PARKS AND RECREATION HRI#
LOCATION MAP Trinomial
Le
m
on
Street
N 156Hillcrest Drive
State of California - The Resources Agency Primary#
DEPARTMENT OF PARKS AND RECREATION HRI #
Trinomial
CONTINUATION SHEET
Property Name: ___ LouisE. PlummerHouse_____________________________________________________________________________ Page _ 4____ of _ 26____
Continuation of P3a
TheHillcrestDrive subdivisionwaslaid out in 1913, andtheresidenceat 156Hillcrest Drive wasthesecond dwelling constructedin thetract, following theadjacentSamuelN. Fuller House (1913) at150Hillcrest Drive. The majority of neighborhoodhousingwasbuilt between1915and1930, incorporatinga numberof architecturalstyles thatreflectedchangingtastesin thedesignof residencesduringthisperiod. Well overhalf of theresidenceswere built before1930.
Theneighborhoodis situatedonhigh ground, overlookingtheflat areathatwastheoriginalFullertontownsite, and theearliesthouseswereoftenone-and-a-half or two-storyin designto takeadvantageof thisfeature. With its hillsidesettingandcoolertemperatures, thetractwaspromotedasoneof thefinestplacesto live in thecity, and severalof themostprominentandprosperousfamiliesconstructedresidencesontheselots, includingAnita Shepardson, Albert H. Sitton, WaldoO’Kelly, JudgeEmersonJ. Marks, City CouncilmanJohnR. Gardiner, and progressiveMayor RichardS. Gregory. Two homesin theHillcrestDrive Historic District havepreviouslybeen designatedFullertonLocalLandmarks: theSamuelN. Fuller House (150HillcrestDrive) andtheAnita Shepardson House (155HillcrestDrive).
Exterior
Theoverallarchitecturalstyleof thedwelling is Craftsman, but Victorian andColonialRevivalelementsarepresent aswell. The Plummersand Campbellswere transplantsfrom rural Iowa and accustomedto Victorian, Colonial Revival, andfarmhousearchitecturalstyles, but not particularlyfamiliar with the Craftsmanbungalowsthat were popularin Fullertonin 1917. Theexteriorhasa numberof non-Craftsmanelements – block pillars, expansivepost bases, stuccoedwalls insteadof woodsiding, archedglasswindowpanes, etc. – thatresultin a uniquelystyledone- of-a-kind home. Overall, thedwellinghasaninviting andcharmingdesignthatreflectsthe1910s. Now restored, and recentlypaintedanhistoricallyaccuratelight green, thedwellingfits beautifullywithin thehistoricneighborhood, still reflectingits originaldesign, materials, andfine workmanship.
Accessto thehome, whichfaceseast, is from thepublicsidewalkwith a concretewalkwayandtwo setsof stairs leadingto a coveredporchwith concreteflooring andwoodenfront door. Theunpaintedfront doorfeaturesa patternedleadglasspanel. Positionedon eachsideof thedoorwayareVictorian-styledsix-lite windowswith curvedmutins. A redbrick fireplace, alateraddition, locatedon thesouthside, extendsabovetheroofline. Large air ventsarepositioneddirectlybeloweachgable. Fenestrationconsistsof windowsin all sizesandshapes: single, double, triple, andbandsof windowsthatrunacrossall sidesof thedwelling, bringingneededlight into theinterior rooms. All theoriginalwindowshavebeenretained.
A ribbondrivewayonthenorthsideleadsto a detachedcontributingsingle-cargaragewith doubleswingoutdoors.
A smallstairwayandconcretewalkwayleadfrom thegarageto a woodenfive-stepstairwayandtherearwooden door, which featuresa singleglasspanel. Stairsonthenorthsidealsoleadto a partialbasement. Slightly westof thegarage, MaudePlummerplanteda smallorchardandvegetablegarden, verycommonatthetime, andthatarea hasbeencarvedout andis still dirt, but theremainderof thegroundshavebeenplantedwith rosesandother floweringplants, alongwith anewgrassylawn.
Interior
As with theexterior, manyof theusualCraftsmanbungalowelementsaremissing, includingstainedglass, astone fireplace, customwall built-insandnooks, darkwoodpaneling, window seats, etc. Thelayoutis simplebut functional, verymuchlike a farmhousewould belaid out. Originally, thepublic areasweresituatedon thefirst floor andconsistedof a living room, smalldining room, kitchen, andbathroom, plusthebedroomof Maudeand DPR523L (9/2013)
DPR523L (9/2013)
State of California - The Resources Agency Primary#
DEPARTMENT OF PARKS AND RECREATION HRI #
Trinomial
CONTINUATION SHEET
Property Name: __ LouisE. PlummerHouse_______________________________________________________________________________ Page _ 5____ of _ 26____
Louis Plummer. Thetwo daughters’ bedroomswereisolatedonthesecondfloor – thebungalow’sairplanecockpit – without a bathroom. Thelayoutonthefirst floor hasbeenretained, but a secondbathroomandclosetareahave beenaddedto thesecondfloor, whichnowhasonly onebedroom.
Themainentranceof thehomeleadsdirectly into a rectangular-shapedliving area, with a fireplacewith a newwood mantle, positionedalongthesouthwall. Theliving roomleadsdirectly into a smallsquare-shapeddining roomwith wainscoting, which, in turn, movesinto thekitchenandmainfloor bathroomandbedroom, which hasa closet. Two flights of centrallylocatedwoodenstairsleadto thesecond-floor bedroomandaddedclosetandbathroom. New flooring, lights, cabinets, andapplianceshavebeenadded, butanattempthasbeenmadeto selecthistorically appropriatematerials, includingceramictiles, fixtures, cabinets, hardware, etc. thatreflectstheoriginalunfussyand uncomplicatedinterior.
Whenthenewownerspurchasedthe1917dwelling, previousoccupantshadaddedmultiplelayersof features popularduringearliereras: a1930srusticfireplacemadeof stonetakenfrom nearbyHillcrestPark; 1950skitchen flooring, cabinets, andwallpaper; 1970swoodpaneling, etc. Much of therehabilitationandrestorationof the dwelling involvedremovingthosepreviousgenerationsof changes.
State of California - The Resources Agency Primary#
DEPARTMENT OF PARKS AND RECREATION HRI #
Trinomial
CONTINUATION SHEET
Property Name: ___ LouisE. PlummerHouse_____________________________________________________________________________ Page _ 6____ of _ 26____
Continuation of B10
Thedwelling is alsoassociatedwith LouisE. Plummer, thefirst ownerof thehouse, whoservedasSuperintendent of bothFullertonUnionHigh SchoolandFullertonCollegefrom 1919to 1941. Two otherowners/occupantsof the housealsoplayedsignificantrolesin thehistoryof Fullerton: JudgeandJusticeof thePeaceHalseyI. Spenceand automotivedealerAlbert H. Sitton.
Historic Background
On March12, 1917, MaudeandLouisE. PlummerpurchasedLots5 and6 of theHillcrestAddition from local developerGeorgeC. Welton (1867-1927).2 In theMay 5, 1917issueof theSouthwestContractorandBuilder, it wasreportedthatbuilderWilliam L. Campbellwould beconstructinga six-roomhomefor LouisE. Plummeron Hillcrest Drive.3 LouisandMaudePlummer, alongwith their two smalldaughters, IsabelandMargaret, whohad beenliving in a Victorian-styleddwelling (razed) at329WestCommonwealthAvenue, movedinto thedwellingin late1917. It wasonly thesecondhomeconstructedin thenewsubdivision, andfor years, theresidencesonHillcrest Drive hadno formalstreetaddress.
By 1924, Plummer, nowPrincipal/Superintendentof FullertonUnionHigh School, hadtwo additionalchildren – sonsRobertandHarold – andthefamily neededmorespace. Thehomeandtwo lots weresoldto Mary andCharles A. RaggioonAugust27, 1924.4 ThePlummerfamily movedtemporarilyto ahomeon OrangethorpeAvenue betweenStantonandGrandAvenuesin BuenaPark, while anewFullertonhomewasbeingbuilt for themat226 HelenDrive (later104ParkView Drive). A SpanishColonialRevivaldwelling, thehomewasdesignedby notable architectHarry K. Vaughn, whowouldlaterdesignFullertonCollege’searlyhistoricstructures, andconstructedby notablelocalcontractorArthur M. Thompson.
After thePlummerfamily moved, for thenextdecadestheHillcrestDrive homewould berentedandownedby a seriesof occupants, noneof whomlived in thedwelling for lengthyperiodsof time. Two of thelateroccupants – JudgeHalseyI. Spence (1926-1927) andAlbert H. Sitton (1932-1936) – arehistoricallysignificantto Fullerton.
Thecurrentownersof thehomepurchasedtheCraftsmanbungalowfrom thenephewof TheresaDianeChadwick, who had, in turn, inheritedthehomefrom herlatefatherin 1994. Overthedecades, Mrs. Chadwickdid little to maintainandupgradethehome. While theexteriorsof thehomeanddetachedgaragewerein goodcondition, the interior sufferedfrom deferredmaintenance. While preservingthecharacter-definingfeaturesof thedwelling, the currentownerhasrestoredboththeinteriorandexteriorof thehome, makingperiodappropriatechoices. The dwelling, garage, andgroundsretaina highdegreeof historicintegrity.
Designer/BuilderWilliam (Will) L. Campbell (1861-1951)
Born in Letts, Iowa, onSeptember5, 1861, William Lincoln Campbellwasoneof six childrenbornto farmerand Union Civil WarveteranAndrewJacksonCampbell (1830-1875) andMary CatherineEpperly (1841-1936) [Figure 1]. Hespenthischildhoodin Muscatine, Iowa, andwasschooledthroughtheeighthgrade. OnDecember25, 1889, CampbellmarriedAlma AmandaBatchelder (1869-1955). Thecouplehadtwo sons: LeeCampbell (1890-1890), DPR523L (9/2013)
State of California - The Resources Agency Primary#
DEPARTMENT OF PARKS AND RECREATION HRI #
Trinomial
CONTINUATION SHEET
Property Name: ___ LouisE. PlummerHouse_____________________________________________________________________________ Page _ 7____ of _ 26____
who diedin infancy, andGuyHaroldCampbell (1895-1994), wholatergraduatedfrom FullertonUnionHigh Schoolin 1915.5
After hismarriage, Campbellhomesteaded160acresontheClark andBeadleCountyline on theSouthDakota prairie. In 1906, heleft thefarm, auctioningall livestockandfarmequipment, andmovedwith hisfamily to the smalltown of Carpenter, SouthDakota, wherehemanageda lumberyard. In 1911, thefamily madethedecisionto moveto Fullerton, arrivingonAugust28, 1911, whenFullertonhadnopavedroadsandonly 2,500residents.
Initially, theCampbellslived with relativesin town, but thenpurchaseda Victorian-styledgrovehouseandfive acresonWestCommonwealthAvenue, thenlocatedoutsideFullertonon thesouthwestcornerof Woodsand CommonwealthAvenues (708WestCommonwealthAvenue) [Figure 2]. Thecouplelived in theresidencefor the nextforty years, sellingfruit from theirvariousgroves. Fouracresof thelandwereinitially devotedto walnuts; one acrewasa diversifiedfruit orchard. Will andhissonGuy wouldeventuallypull out thewalnuttreesandreplace themwith Valenciaoranges.6
Alma andWill Campbellquickly joinedtheFullertonMethodistChurch, remainingactivelifetime members. The couplewereTownsenditeswhosupportedDr. FrancisE. Townsend’swidely popularnationalorganization – the TownsendPlanor theOld-AgeRevolvingPlan (OARP) – formedto counterpovertyamongsttheelderlyby providingeachcitizenovertheageof 60with amonthlystipendof $200. TheFullertonTownsendClub No. 2 often metat theCampbell’s home.7 Mrs. Campbellwasanalsoanactivememberof theFullertonWomen’s Christian TemperanceUnion (WCTU) andhostedmeetingsat herresidence.8 For thefirst few years, Campbell, whowasin hisfifties, concentratedonfruit growing, supplementinghisincome with carpentrywork.9 A first classcarpenter, hemovedinto homebuildingaround1915, atatime whenFullerton hadfew if anyhousingcontractors. Heworkedasabuilding contractoruntil 1921, whenhereturnedto carpentry.
Unfortunately, Campbellconstructedhomesduringa periodwhenthecity requirednobuildingpermits, andit is difficult to determinethebuildingshecompleted. Healsobuilt residencesin areas, particularlyalongOrangethorpe andWestCommonwealthAvenues, thatwerelaterdevelopedfor commercialuses. Printresourcesindicatethat Campbellbuilt a six-roombungalowonJohnM. Hale’s citrusranchthreemilesnortheastof town;10 a four-room bungalowfor FrancisW. Rogersat231EastUnion Avenue (razedor moved) in 1919;11 anda residencefor Mrs.
SarahE. Mollela, designedby Fullertonbuilding inspectorIra H. Dysinger, at317North RichmanAvenue, now Kaego’s RichmanGardensCommunityCenter.12 ThePlummerHouseis theonly extanthomedesignedandbuilt by Campbellthathasbeenidentifiedandstill standing.
By 1939, whenAlma andWill Campbellcelebratedtheirgoldenanniversarywith anopenhouseat theirhome,13 Will hadretiredfrom homebuilding but still workedasa fruit grower. In 1950, hesoldhishomeandfour acresto theMcCoy andMills AutomotiveAgencyfor $30,000andmovedto a homeat 245EastWilshireAvenue (razed).14 Will passedawayin hissleepon March2, 1951, attheageof 89.15 Alma passedawayin hersleepon March25, 1955, attheageof 85. Thecoupleis buriedin theAnaheimCemetery.
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LouisE. Plummer (1883-1958)
Born on June24, 1883, in Ottoville, Iowa, LouisEllsworthPlummerwastheoldestof sevenchildrenbornto farmer William AsburyPlummer (1855-1941) andschoolteacherElla V. Smith (1865-1900), thedaughterof aCivil War veteran [Figures3-4]. Heattendedlocalpublic schoolsandgraduatedfrom GroverHill, Ohio, High School. In 1909, hegraduatedfrom OhioNorthernUniversitywith a B.S. degreein CommercialScience, andthendecades laterreceivedanM.S. degreein Educationfrom theUniversityof SouthernCalifornia (USC) in 1935. OnMay 11, 1907, hemarriedfellow teacherMaudeAnn McCartney (1882-1951), thedaughterof a farmer. Thecouplehadfour children, all bornandraisedin Fullerton: IsabelViola (1911-2003), MargaretIrene (1913-2001), RobertLouis 1919-2008), andHaroldCarlisle (1921-2002).16
In 1900, Plummerbeganhiscareerasaneducator, teachingschoolasa teenagerin PauldingCounty, Ohio. From 1906to 1908, hewassuperintendentof schoolsatMandale, Ohio.17 Plummermovedto Fullertonin 1909, after acceptinganoffer to serveasheadof theCommerceDepartmentatFullertonUnionHigh School (FUHS), a position hehelduntil 1919. HeservedasVice-Principalfrom 1915to 1918. Thefollowing yearhewasappointedPrincipal laterSuperintendent) of FUHSandFullertonCollegewhenPrincipalEdwardW. Hauckresignedto enrollin officer trainingatCampZacharyTaylorin Louisville, Kentucky, anationalarmytrainingcampduringWorld WarI.18 Plummerwould serveasSuperintendentof bothFullertonUnion High SchoolandFullertonCollegefrom 1919to 1941. His significanceasaneducatorin Fullertoncannotbematched, andhisfar-sightedleadershipwas instrumentalin thedevelopmentof bothschools. Duringhistenure, Plummeroversawtheexpansionof thehigh schoolasall theClassicalRevivalbuildingswouldbereplacedby SpanishColonialRevivalstructures, while new acreagewasaddedalongwith numerousotherfacilities, includinganewauditorium. Healsooversawthe constructionof FullertonCollegeasit movedacrossthestreetinto separatefacilities. Heservedasa steady influenceduringtimesof crisis, steeringtheschooldistrictthroughWorld WarI, theGreatDepression, the1933 Long BeachEarthquake, theNewDealera, andthehistoric1938flood, still OrangeCounty’s worstnaturaldisaster.
Plummer’s historyof thehighschoolandcollege – A Historyof theFullerton Union High SchoolandFullerton JuniorCollege, 1893-1943 – remainsaseminalwork ontheeducationaldevelopmentof Fullerton. In honorof Plummer’s twenty-oneyearsaschief administrator, FullertonCollegestudentsvotedto dedicatetheir 1941 Yearbookto him.19
During hisyearsasanadministrator, Plummerbecamea nationallyknowneducator, oftencalleduponto deliver talksandspeechesatnationalconventions. Plummerwastwice electedPresidentof theCaliforniaJuniorCollege Association, SouthernSection, in 1924and1929,20 andasPresidentof theAmericanAssociationof JuniorColleges in 1927. In addition, heservedasPresidentof theDepartmentof SecondarySchoolPrincipalsof theNational EducationAssociationin 1930; waselectedVice-Presidentof theSchoolmasters’ Clubof OrangeCountyin 1928;21 andwasanactivememberof theCaliforniaCouncilof Education.
Plummer, whopossessedamild andeasy-goingmanner, wasequallyengagedin theaffairsof hischurchand community. After theirmoveto Fullerton, Plummerandhiswife becameactiveandlife-long membersof the FullertonFirstMethodistChurch, with PlummerservingontheBoardof Trustees. In addition, Plummerwasa memberof numerouslocal groupsandorganizations, oftenservingasanofficer. Hewasachartermember, President, andservedontheBoardof Directorsof theFullertonKiwanisClub;22 a Patronof theOrangeCounty SymphonyOrchestra;23 Bankerof theModernWoodmenof AmericaFullertonLodge;24 recordingsecretary, District
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Boardmember, andPresidentfrom 1917to 1929of theNorth OrangeCountyYoungMen’sChristianAssociation YMCA); 25 anda memberof theAdvisory Committeeof theFullertonParent-TeacherAssociation.26 WhenPlummerarrivedin Fullerton, thethenruraltown hadonly a few thousandresidents, andhefrequently devotedhimselfto thegrowthanddevelopmentof thecity. In 1920, theFullertonChamberof Commerceappointed him Chairmanof theCivic PlanningCommittee.27 Heservedonwaterdevelopmentboards, includingthenewly formedWhiteStarCompanyof Anaheimin 1920.28 In 1928, hepurchasedtenacresonthethensouthernborderof Fullerton, whichhelaid out andsubdividedwith developersSamuelN. Fuller andFullertonMayor RichardS.
Gregory. TheSouthgateParkTract (TractNo. 886), whichencompassesWestKnepp, WestSouthgate, andWest Hill Avenues, alongwith frontageonSouthHarborBoulevard, generated58residentialandbusinesslots which quickly sold [Figure 5].29
In June1941, atthecloseof hiscontractwith theFullertonUnionHigh SchoolandJuniorCollegeDistrict, Plummer left Fullerton, acceptinga positionasindustrialtrainingmanagerfor theRyanAeronauticalCompanyof SanDiego, apositionhehelduntil theendof World WarII.30 After thewar, Plummer, whohadbeenliving with hiswife and two sonsat433WestBrookdalePlace, wasaskedto returnasSuperintendentof theFullertonhighschooland college, butdeclinedtheoffer andretired. Plummerandhiswife travelledextensivelyandmovedbetweenabeach hometheyownedin NewportBeach (1136WestBay Avenue) andtheircabinatLakeArrowhead. OnSeptember 30, 1951, while thecouplewasreturningto LakeArrowhead, MaudePlummerwasstruckandkilled by an automobilewhile dartingacrossFoothill BoulevardnearFontanato look at fruit for saleata roadsidestand.31 OnFebruary20, 1953, PlummermarriedLola Lorain Raupe (1907-1993) in SanDiego. A FullertonUnion High SchoolandFullertonCollegegraduate, Raupejoinedthecampussecretarialpoolbeforeservingassecretaryfor SuperintendentAlfred S. Redfern (1876-1970) in the1930s. Shewasappointedheadof theRegistration Departmentbeforedepartingthecampusin the1940sto work asa secretaryfor a SantaAna doctor.32 LouisPlummerpassedawayonFebruary28, 1958, attheageof 74, at SantaAna CommunityHospital.33 During hisretirement, Plummercollectedrareseashellsandmarineflora andfauna, andhiswidow loanedthespecimensto variousInstitutions, includingFullertonCollege, afterhisdeath.34 Thecollectionwould eventuallybedonatedto SantaAna College.35 Louis, Maude, andLorain Plummerareall buriedin LomaVistaMemorialParkin Fullerton.
LouisE. PlummerandtheKu Klux Klan (KKK)
In his1979dissertation – TheInvisibleGovernmentandtheVisibleCommunity: TheKu Klux Klan in Orange County, California During the1930’s – anda lateressay, ChristopherCocoltchosidentifiedFullertonKu Klux Klan membersbasedonanunpublishedmembershiprosterof August25, 1924, onfile in theLibrary of Congress.36 Cocoltchosidentifiedchurchleaders, schoolofficials, andskilledworkmen, primarily in theoil industry, including Louis Plummer, JudgeWilliam French, FireChiefRoy Davis, and “sevenof theeighteencouncilmenwhoservedon thecouncilbetween1918and1930”, alongwith otherindividuals.37 Theaccuracyof thelist is difficult to ascertain, especiallyassomeof thepeoplesupposedlylisted, suchasFireChiefRoy Davis, werestaunchlyagainsttheKKK.
While thereis nodoubtthataklavernexistedin Fullerton, it is difficult to ascertainPlummer’sinvolvement. There arenonewspaperor magazinearticles, books, photographs, oralhistories, schooldistrictminutesor othersources thatshowhim espousingKlan doctrine; attendingor participatingin Klan meetingsor assemblies; or engagingin DPR523L (9/2013)
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anyuntowardactionsaimedatculturalor religiousgroupsdistainedby theKKK, whichin theOrangeCountycase wereCatholics. Plummerwasalsoanactivememberandofficer of Fullertonorganizations, includingtheFullerton Chamberof CommerceandtheFullertonKiwanisClub, thatvociferouslydenouncedtheKlan.38 Hewould, in fact, beelectedpresidentof theFullertonKawanisClubin 1928. Healsowaselectedanofficer of severalnational educationorganizationsthateschewedtheKlan. Overthedecades, Plummerwascontinuallylaudedfor his characterandcontributionsto thegrowthanddevelopmentof Fullerton. FullertonCity AttorneyAlbert Launer calledPlummer “oneof thefinestcitizensFullertoneverhad, andoneof thefinestfriendsandmosthonest, sincere, andhonorablementhatI’ve evermet”.39
Plummer, however, wasawareof andhadcontactwith ReverendLeonL. Myers, theExaltedCyclopsof the KlavernKnightsof theKu Klux Klan, No. 16, who workedwith Fullertonprohibitioniststo conductraidsagainst OrangeCountybootleggersin November1924. A formerRedlandspastor, thecharismaticMyerswashiredasthe ministerof theFirst ChristianChurchof Anaheim, thesecondlargestcongregationin thecity, in June1922.40 By 1924, Myersandhisfellow Klansmenhadgainedpolitical controlof Anaheim. Fourof five city councilmen; a majorityof thePoliceDepartment; andtheeditorandpublisherof thetown’s largestnewspaper, theOrangeCounty Plain Dealer, wereKlansmen.41 AlthoughtheKu Klux Klan is generallyassociatedwith antisemitismandwhite supremacy, OrangeCountyhada minisculenumberof blackandJewishresidents, andMyersandhiscohorts directedtheirhostility towardCatholics, coupledwith staunchsupportfor prohibition, passingstrictanti-liquor laws in whatwaspreviouslya “wet” city. In 1924, Anaheimresidents, led by theUSA Club, localorganizations (Rotary, Lions, Elks, KiwanisClubs), andtheeditors/publishersof theAnaheimBulletinandAnaheimGazette, joinedforces to ousttheKlan. Onelectionday, February3, 1925, ninety-five percentof votersturnedoutto recalltheKlan councilmen.42 Myerscontinuedhisanti-Catholiccrusade, claimingCatholicshadovertakenthetown, churches, and schools, but eventuallyresignedandleft for Kansasin December1925 [Figure 6].43 In theSpringof 1924, ReverendMyersbegananambitiousplanto exerttheKlan’sinfluencethroughoutnorthern OrangeCounty. Unlike Anaheim, Fullertondid nothaveaGermanversusnon-Germandichotomy – mostresidents werefrom theMidwestor South – or a conflict betweenProtestantsandCatholics. Many FullertonpioneerCatholic families – theKramers, Dausers, O’Hanlons, Eadingtons, Muckenthalers, etc. – wererespectedcitizens, andfifty percentof Fullertonlandwasownedby theCatholicBastanchuryfamily. Myerspathwayinto thecity wasthrough prohibition, promisingthattheKlan would cleanup communitiesby ridding themof bootleggersandmoonshiners andstoppingtheCatholicimmigrantssupposedlyflauntingliquor laws. TheFullertonCity Councilhadbanned alcoholin 1911, well beforethe1919VolsteadAct, andtheAnti-SaloonLeagueandtheFullertonWomen’s ChristianTemperanceUnion (WCTU), foundedin 1898, remainedpowerfulandinfluentialorganizationsledby the town’s elites. BothgroupsbelievedthattheFullertonPoliceDepartmentwasnotdoingenoughto stopbootleggers from bringingliquor into Fullerton. Fullertonresidents, however, couldeasilyobtainalcoholby visiting nearby AnaheimandLos Angeles, andtheir medicaldoctors, whowould quickly write a prescription. It waswell-known whereto find alcohol, andtherewereseveraldowntownspeakeasies. Fullertonresidentsalsohadsecretstash compartmentsbehindfireplaces, kitchencabinets, andmirrorswhich still canbefoundin 1920shomes.
In 1924, ReverendMyersformedtheChristianCitizensEnforcementCommitteewith two of Fullerton’sstaunchest prohibitionists: Arthur E. StuelkeandpioneerWilliam M. Starbuck, a 15-yearhigh schooltrustee. Underthe directionof ReverendMyers, federalandstateagents, alongwith Klansmen, conductedboozeraidsin November 1924throughoutOrangeCounty, chargingthecostto local cities. Thedry raidsnetted54liquor violators, noneof DPR523L (9/2013)
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whomwereprosecuted, andseveralof thedry sweepprincipalswould themselveslaterbearrestedandprosecuted.44 FullertonCity Councilmen, supportedby City MarshallArthur Eels, hadsigneda contractto paydry detective EdwinS. Ward $2,800for hisinvestigativeservices. Whenthesecretcommitteeandthebill becamepublic, C.
StanleyChapman, thesonof Fullerton’s first mayor, CharlesC. Chapman, filed aninjunctionto stopthepayment.
Theinjunctionwould work its way throughthecourtsystemandeventuallybeupheldby theCaliforniaSupreme Courtin 1928.45
WhenOrangeCountyresidentsobjectedto themisguidedboozeraids, theOrangeCountyGrandJurywasconvened in January1925, to investigate. ReverendMyers, Stuelke, andStarbuckwerecalledto testify. LouisE. Plummer wascalledasa witnessto confirm thatcollegeandhighschoolstudentshadbeencaughtwith liquor bothon andoff thecampus, necessitatingtheurgentneedto roundupthebootleggers.46 It is notknownwhetherPlummerhad advanceknowledgeof theboozeraids, buthehaddedicatedhimselfto eradicatingwhatheconsideredthetwo major evils” – smokinganddrinking – thathebelievedweredetrimentalto thedevelopmentof themoralcharacterof his students.47 TherewasnodoubtthatFullertonstudentshadbeencaughtdrinking, andprohibitionistshadbecome particularlyalarmedwhentwo high schoolboyswerearrestedin May 1924, whena liquor bottleand “fruit jar of wine” wasfoundin their lockers. It wasalsoreportedthatstudentbootleggerswereactiveonthecampus.48 The boozeraiddisclosureswereanembarrassmentto city officials andwereneverconductedagain. Plummer’sonly link to theKKK is throughtheboozeraidsandhisGrandJurytestimony.
Later NotableOccupants/Ownersof theHouse
HalseyIvesSpence (1871-1951)
Thefirst occupantsof theHillcrestDrive dwellingafterthePlummerfamily left wereFullertonJusticeof thePeace HalseyI. Spence [Figure 7] andhiswife, Ella N. Spence, from 1926to 1927.
Born in Chillicothe, Missouri, on July 26, 1871, HalseyI. Spencewastheonly child of EleanorRobinson (1848- 1875) andUnion Army Civil WarveteranHenryH. Spence (1839-1913). Halseywasraisedin Chillicothewherehe attendedtheNormalSchool, educatedthroughfour yearsof high school. In 1896, hemarriedElla N. Nesmith 1873-1951). Thecouplehadtwo sons: GlennI. Spence (1897-1910) andHaroldRobinsonSpence (1899-1982), who afterservingin World WarI, becamea Los Angelesattorney.
While in Chillicothe, Halseyworkedasanexpressagentandpostoffice clerk49beforebeingelectedCity Clerk in 1909.50 In 1916, heandhisfamily movedto Los Angeles (1320WestFifth Street), whereheworkedasaforeign agentfor theHilmanBankof Los Angeles. In 1921, hemovedto Fullerton, whereheservedasauditorfor theDean HardwareStoreonNorth HarborBoulevard. In 1926, hewaselectedFullertonJusticeof thePeaceandCity Recorder, assuminghisdutieson January1, 1927. HewouldserveasJusticeof thePeaceuntil his deathin 1951.
HewasalsoappointedFullertonCity Judge, servingfor twenty-two yearsuntil hewasforcedto retireafterreaching themaximumageundertheStateEmployeesRetirementAct.51
Immediatelyuponarrivingin Fullerton, HalseyjoinedtheFullertonChamberof Commerce, andlaterhebecamea chartermemberof theFullertonKiwanisClub. Hewasalsoanactivememberof theFullertonMasonicLodge, the DPR523L (9/2013)
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IsaacWaltonLeague, andtheFullertonBoy Scouts. Ella Spence, whohadbeena memberof theChillicotheP.E.O., becamepresidentof boththeLos AngelesandFullertonP.E.O. chapters.
WhentheSpencesmovedto Fullerton, theyinitially lived at130WestMalvernAvenue, thenmovedto 156 Hillcrest Drive in 1926. TheycommissionednotablelocalcontractorArthur M. Thompsonto constructanewhome for themat 441WestBrookdalePlace, wherethecoupleremainedfor therestof their lives. HalseySpencepassed awayin FullertononJune28, 1951, attheageof 7452andElla HalseyonJuly 31, 1953, attheageof 73.53 Theyare buriedin LomaVistaMemorialPark.
Albert Harris Sitton (1878-1967)
TheSittonfamily lived ata numberof Fullertonlocations, includingthehousetheyhadbuilt at144Hillcrest Drive, but from 1932to 1936theyresidedat156HillcrestDrive asrenters.
Albert H. Sittonwasoneof threechildrenbornto farmerBrice “Mart” Martin Sitton, Jr. (1850-1893) andNancy Barbara “Nannie” Harris (1859-1945). BriceSittonmovedfrom Missourito Nevadato Norwalk, California. Albert Sittonwasbornin DowneyonJune18, 1878, afterwhich thefamily movedto OrangeCounty, settlinginto whatis now theCity of Orange [Figures 8-9]. Albert attendedOrangeCountypublic schools, educatedthroughthefirst yearof high school. After servingin CompanyL of theSouthernCaliforniaRegimentduringthe1898Spanish AmericanWar, hemovedto FullertononJanuary1, 1900, openingthecity’sfirst bicycleshoponNorth Harbor Boulevard.54 In 1904, hestartedthefirst automobilerepairbusinesswhentherewereonly threesuchvehiclesin the city.55 In 1908, heacquiredthefirst automobilesalesdealershipin Fullertonfor OverlandandWillys-Knight cars.
He alsobecamethecity’sfirst electrician, installinglightsin earlycity residences.
In 1916, Sittonwaselectedto theFullertonBoardof Trustees (latertheFullertonCity Council), servingfor four years. In 1915, hewaselectedto theFullertonBoardof Trusteesfor theElementarySchoolDistrict, servingfor twelveyears. Hewasa chartermemberof theFullertonKiwanisClubandactivein theYMCA. In theearly1910s, hebecameactivein socialwork with OrangeCountyjuveniles. For overfifty years, hewasamemberof theOrange CountyJuvenileCommittee, andin 1959, theAlbert SittonHome, afacility in Orangebuilt to houseabused, neglected, andabandonedchildrenandjuveniles, wasnamedin hishonor.56 ( Thefacility closedits doorsin 1985 whentheOrangewoodChildren’sHomeopened.)
In 1902, hemarriedfellow FullertonresidentRosa (Rose) BelleRogers (1882-1966), thedaughterof alocal rancher, at theFullertonBaptistChurch. Thecouplehadoneson, Arthur C. Sitton (1905-1986). Sittonpassedaway in theAmerigeRestHomeonSeptember10, 1967, at theageof 89.57 Heandhiswife areburiedin MelroseAbbey MemorialParkin Anaheim.
BibliographicReferences
1Burton, Maureen. “City WelcomesIts SeventhPreservationZone – theHillcrestDrive Area.” Fullerton Heritage NewsletterMay 2015, p. 1, 3.
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2OrangeCountyPropertyRecords, IndentureRecords, 156HillcrestDrive, Book 292, Page78. Onfile, Orange CountyArchives. Copyonfile, LocalHistory Room, FullertonPublicLibrary. 3“FullertonPermits.” SouthwestBuilderandContractorMay 5, 1917, p. 30. 4OrangeCountyPropertyRecords, JointTenancyDeed, August27, 1924, Book 264, p. 240. Onfile, OrangeCounty Archives. Copyonfile, LocalHistory Room, FullertonPublicLibrary. 5GuyCampbell, whohada widevarietyof jobsoverhislifetime, alsobriefly workedasabuilderin partnershipwith JesseR. Ozias (Campbell & Ozias). “SchoolsandColleges.” SouthwestBuilder andContractor1921. 6Campbell, GuyHarold. Autobiographyof GuyHarold Campbell. 1971. FamilySearch.org. Printcopyonfile, LocalHistoryRoom, FullertonPublicLibrary.
7PacificTelephoneandTelegraphCompanyTelephoneDirectory, November12, 1913, p. 16. Onfile, Local History Room, FullertonPublicLibrary.
8“Townsenditesto StageSupper.” SantaAnaDaily EveningRegisterFebruary24, 1939, p. 11. 9“[ Fullerton].” SantaAnaDaily EveningRegisterMay 21, 1928, p. 11. 10“[ Contractor].” SantaAnaDaily EveningRegisterDecember31, 1918, p. 9. 11“FullertonPermits.” SouthwestBuilderandContractorMay 10, 1919, p. 29. 12“FullertonPermits.” SouthwestBuilderandContractorAugust22, 1919, p. 26. 13“Mr. andMrs. W. L. CampbellCelebrateGoldenAnniversarywith OpenHouse.” Fullerton NewsTribune December28, 1939. Includesalist of thosewho attendedtheevent. 14“McCoyandMills to Build NewModernGarage.” Fullerton NewsTribuneOctober1, 1950, p. 1; “New $100,000 Auto Agencyto beConstructedHere.” Fullerton NewsTribuneMarch22, 1951. 15“William L. CampbellPassesAway.” Fullerton NewsTribuneMarch28, 1951. 16“Louis EllsworthPlummer.” Historyof OrangeCounty, California. Vol. II. Ed. Mrs. J. E. Pleasants. Los Angeles:
J. R. Fennel & Sons, 1931: 446. On file, LocalHistory Room, FullertonPublicLibrary. 17“Our Principal.” ThePleiades: Fullerton Union High SchoolYearbook, 1935. Fullerton: FullertonUnion High School, 1935: 14.
18“Newsin Brief Form.” SantaAnaRegisterOctober29, 1918, p. 9; “Prof. HauckWill FarmQuarterSectionLand atModesto.” SantaAnaDaily RegisterJanuary13, 1919, p. 2. 19“DedicateCollegeYearBook to L. E. Plummer.” Fullerton NewsTribuneJune12, 1941. Copiesof the1941The TorchYearbookareon file in theLocal HistoryRoomof theFullertonPublicLibrary andtheFullertonCollege Library Archives.
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20“FacultyTendersPrincipalof High SchoolReception; LouisE. PlummerHonoredFollowingElectionto National Office.” Fullerton NewsTribuneMarch20, 1924; “TenderReceptionto PrincipalPlummer.” La HabraStarMarch 21, 1924; “PlummerNamedPresidentof J.C. Body.” TheWeeklyTorchOctober24, 1928, p. 1. 21“R. T. Mitchell ElectedHeadof Schoolmasters’ Clubof OrangeCounty.” SantaAnaRegisterMay 10, 1928, p. 176.
22“InstallationConductedby theKiwanisClub.” SantaAnaRegisterJanuary6, 1931, p. 15; “FullertonClub Picks Williams.” LosAngelesTimesOctober4, 1932, p. 11.
23“Patronsof CountyOrchestraListed.” SantaAnaDaily EveningRegisterJanuary5, 1923, p. 13. 24“Fullerton.” LosAngelesTimesJanuary13, 1911, p. I15.
25“Y.M.C.A. Officersfor ThisDistrict.” La HabraStarApril 1, 1925; “’Y’ Work in CountyTold in Placentia.” SantaAnaDaily EveningRegisterJanuary25, 1926, p. 6.
26“P. – T.A. AidesAre Appointedby President.” SantaAnaEveningRegisterOctober17, 1934, p. 6. 27“AdvertisingSignto Be TornDown by B.T.” SantaAnaRegisterSeptember3, 1920, p. 5 . 28“NewAnaheimWaterCompanyIncorporated.” La HabraStarNovember15, 1920. 29“SouthgateParkTractOpeningSetDecember1.” FullertonNewsTribuneSeptember22, 1928; “SouthgateTract to Goon Market.” FullertonNewsTribuneJanuary5, 1929; “SubdivisionsonIncreasein Fullerton.” SantaAna RegisterMarch18, 1928, p. 38; “BannerYearPredictedby Contractorsof Fullerton; NewTractsGoon Market.” SantaAnaRegisterJanuary29, 1928, p. 25; TractNo. 886Map, February17, 1928. Copyof Map onfile, Local HistoryRoom, FullertonPublicLibrary.
30“ManufacturingPersonnel.” AmericanAviationSeptember15, 1942, p. 47. 31“Mrs. MaudeA. PlummerKilled by AutomobileSundayNearFontana.” La HabraStarOctober4, 1951. 32Plummer, Lorain. Interviewwith K. K. Richard, June12, 1968. CaliforniaStateUniversity, Fullerton, OralHistory Program. Onfile, CaliforniaStateUniversity, Fullerton, LawrencedeGraafCenterfor OralandPublicHistory.
Copyonfile, LocalHistory Room, FullertonPublicLibrary.
33“L. E. Plummer, NotedEducator, Diesat 74.” Fullerton NewsTribuneMarch1, 1958. 35“RareShellson Exhibit.” LosAngelesTimesOctober5, 1958, p. OC10. 35“NatureReferenceRoomatSACGrowsin StatureandInterest.” LosAngelesTimesJanuary18, 1962, p. D7. 36Cocoltchos, ChristopherN. TheInvisibleGovernmentandtheViableCommunity: TheKu Klux Klan in Orange County, California During the1920’s. Dissertation. Universityof California, Los Angeles, 1979. Copyonfile, Local History Room, FullertonPublicLibrary. Cocoltchoslaterpublishedanessaythatrestatedpartsof the DPR523L (9/2013)
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dissertation: “TheInvisible EmpireandtheSearchfor theOrderlyCommunity: TheKu Klux Klan in Anaheim, California.” In TheInvisibleEmpirein theWest: Towarda NewHistorical Appraisalof theKu Klux Klan of the 1920s. Ed. ShawnLay. Champaign, Illinois: Universityof Illinois Press, 2004. 37Ibid., p. 306.
38“Would BeKlan in LegionParade: RegistersObjectionto Floats; LuncheonClub in AnaheimandFullertonSaid to ThreatenBolt.” SantaAnaRegisterOctober6, 1924, p. 1; “Denunciationof InvisibleGovernmentIs Voicedin Resolutionby ClubToday.” FullertonNewsTribuneOctober1, 1924; “RotariansHit Ku Klux Horde.” LosAngeles TimesOctober2, 1924, p. 10.
39Launer, Albert. CaliforniaStateUniversity, Fullerton, OralDocumentationSection, 1968, p.3. Interview conductedby Karol Keith Richard. Copyonfile, LocalHistory Room, FullertonPublicLibrary. 40Kernahan, Galal. “TheTravailof Klanheim.” OrangeCountyIllustratedJuly 1965, p. 29-31. Includesa photographof LeonC. Myers.
41“AnaheimRegime: OnceIt WastheKlan.” LosAngelesTimesSeptember6, 1970, p. OC1. 42Melching, Richard. “TheActivities of theKu Klux Klan in Anaheim, California, 1923-1925.” SouthernCalifornia Quarterlyvol. 56, no. 2 (Summer1974): 175-196.
43“Klan ParsonBeratesFoes.” LosAngelesTimesMay 11, 1925, p. 1; “AnaheimKlan PastorQuits.” LosAngeles TimesOctober27, 1925, p. 10.
44“50RoundedUp in BoozeRaidsNearSantaAna.” Imperial ValleyNewsNovember20, 1924; “FourOrange CountyRumRaidersFaceArrest; SupplyBoy with Liquor Charged.” LosAngelesTimesJanuary14, 1925, p. A1; To ProsecuteRaidOperatives; To ArrestPrincipalsin CountyDry Sweep.” SantaAnaRegisterJanuary13, 1925. 45“ContractaSecret; JudgeRulesin Favorof CommitteeStagingOrangeCountyDry Raids.” LosAngelesTimes April 28, 1925, p. 12; “Dry RaiderLosesFee; SupremeCourtUpholdsLowerTribunal.” LosAngelesTimesApril 10, 1928, p. A12; “Dry RaidContractRemainsa Secret.” La HabraStarApril 29, 1925. 46“AttentiononLiquor Fight; GrandJuryto InvestigateOrangeConditions.” LosAngelesTimesDecember30, 1924, p. B13; “OrangeCountyResidentsAsk Dry Act Probe.” StocktonIndependentDecember27, 1924; “Leadersof RaidGrilled by Jury.” La HabraStarJanuary7, 1925.
47Plummerlaid outhisphilosophyin anessay (“Youthful Tendencies”) publishedin theAugust1921issueof The OrangeCountyReview.
48“High SchoolYouthsFinedonRumCharges.” LosAngelesTimesMay 28, 1924, p. 20. 49OfficialRegisterof theUnitedStates, Containinga List of theOfficersandEmployes [sic] of theCivil, Military, andNavalServiceon theFirst of July 1893; Togetherwith a List of VesselsBelongingto theUnitedStates. Vol. II:
ThePost-OfficeDepartmentandthePostalService. Washington, D.C. GovernmentPrintingOffice, 1894: 979.
Online.
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50“Official Ballot.” ChillicotheConstitutionApril 29, 1909. 51“JudgeRetiresatFullerton.” LosAngelesTimesAugust20, 1948, p. A6. 52“HalseyI. Spence, Justiceof PeaceSince ’27, Dies.” FullertonNewsTribuneJune28, 1951. 53“Ella N. Spence, 73, DiesatFullerton.” LosAngelesTimesAugust4, 1953, p. B5. 54“Albert H. Sitton.” Historyof OrangeCounty, California with BiographicalSketchesof theLeadingMenand WomenWhoHaveBeenIdentifiedwith Its Early GrowthandDevelopmentfromtheEarly Daysto thePresent. Ed.
SamuelArmor. Los Angeles: Historic RecordCompany, 1921: 735. 55Sitton, Albert. FirstAutomobilesin Fullerton: Recollectionsby Albert Sitton. 1947. Onfile, LocalHistory Room, FullertonPublicLibrary.
56“NewJuvenileDependentsHomeNamedin Honorof City Resident.” Fullerton NewsTribune1959. 57“FullertonPioneerAlbert SittonDies.” FullertonNewsTribuneNovember11, 1967.
Additional References:
Ancestry.comandFamilySearch.org
FullertonBuilding Permits.
Fullerton City Directories. OnlinethroughtheFullertonPublicLibrary Websiteandonfile, Local HistoryRoom, FullertonPublicLibrary.
Little, Betty. HowProhibition FueledtheRiseof theKu Klux Klan. March27, 2023, https://www.history.com/news/kkk-terror-during-prohibtion.
Oestreich, Diane. TheHistoryof Fullerton Union High School, 1893-2011. St. Louis: ReedyPress, 2011. Copyon file, LocalHistory Room, FullertonPublicLibrary.
Plummer, LouisE. Fullerton Union High SchoolandFullerton JuniorCollege, 1893-1943. Fullerton: Fullerton JuniorCollegePress, 1949. Copyonfile, LocalHistoryRoom, FullertonPublicLibrary.
SanbornFireInsuranceCompanyMaps. Copiesonfile, Local History Room, FullertonPublicLibrary.
Ziebell, Bob. Fullerton, A Pictorial History. Virginia Beach, Va.: DonningCompany, 1994.
DPR523L (9/2013)
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Figure 1: William L. Campbell, ca. 1904
Source: FamilySearch.org.
Figure 2: Campbell Residenceon WestCommonwealthAvenue, ca. 1946 Source: FamilySearch.org.
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Figure 3: Louis E. Plummer, 1917
Source: Fullerton Public Library
Figure 4: Louis E. Plummer, 1933
Source: Fullerton Public Library
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Figure 5: Tract 886
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Figure 6: Handbill for a speechto begiven by ReverendLeon L. Myers about the Roman Catholicsinfluenceon the AnaheimBulletin and other organizationsin Anaheim, ca. 1923.
Source: Digital Public Library of America.
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Figure 7: HalseyI. Spence
Source: Fullerton Public Library
Figure 8: Albert and RosaSitton, 1902.
Source: SantaAna Public Library,
Calisphere.
Figure 9: Albert Sitton, 1964.
Source: Fullerton Public Library
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Photo 1: East (front) elevationof the house
Photo 2: Front door of house
Photo 3: Detail of front window next to front door
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Photo 4: South elevationof house, facing northeast
Photo 5: North elevationof house, facing southwest
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Photo 6: West (back) elevationof house
Photo 7: Garageat the back of the property
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Photo 8: Fireplacein living room, facing south
Photo 9: Entry to kitchen from front room, facing west Photo 10: Stairway, facing north DPR523L (9/2013)
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Photo 11: Upstairs bedroomwindow, facing east
Photo 12: Window in bedroom on
secondstory, facing north
Photo 13: Door and cabinetin bedroom
on ground level, facing north
PRJ2024-00008 – 156 HILLCREST DRIVE
Attachment No. 3
PowerPoint Presentation
PRJ2024-00008
LocalLandmarkDesignation
156HillcrestDrive
LandmarksCommissionPublicHearing
ZoomMeeting ID: 89315253564
ProjectLocation – 156HillcrestDrive
2 HILLCREST DRIVE
HI
LLCREST
DRIVE
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STREET
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ProjectDescription
Requestto designate156HillcrestDriveas a locallandmark (Historical LandmarkNo. HL-112) on the FullertonLocalRegisterof Historical Resources
CorrespondingGeneralPlanRevisiontoTheFullertonPlan:
AddlistingtoTable6, CityofFullertonLocalRegisterofHistoricalResources AddlocationtoExhibit4, MapofHistoricalResources
ExteriorPhotos
ExteriorPhotos
ExteriorPhotos
InteriorPhotos
DesignationCriteria
1. Character, interestorvalueaspartoftheheritageofthecity.
2. Siteofahistoricevent.
3. Identifiedwithpersonswhosignificantlycontributedtothecity.
4. Exampleofanarchitecturalstyleorwayoflifeimportanttothecity.
5. Exampleofthebestremainingarchitecturaltypesinanarea.
6. Workofapersonwhohasinfluencedtheheritageofthecity, stateornation.
7. Displaysoutstandingattentiontoarchitecturaldesign, detail, materialsorcraftsmanship.
8. Relationshiptootherlandmarks, wherethepreservationofonehasabearingonthepreservationof another.
9. Property, by its locationor characteristics, is an establishedandfamiliarvisualfeatureof a neighborhood.
10. Naturalenvironmentthatcontributestothewellbeingofthecommunity.
DesignationCriteria
7. Displaysoutstandingattentiontoarchitecturaldesign, detail, materialsorcraftsmanship.
Excellentexampleof1910’sCraftsmanbungalow
Retainshistoricintegrityandarchitecturalfeatures – interiorandexterior Overallarchitecturalstyleofthesubjectproperty’s dwellingisCraftsman, butVictorianandColonialRevivalelementsare presentaswell. Theexteriorhasseveralnon-Craftsmanelements – blockpillars, expansivepostbases, stuccoedwalls insteadofwoodsiding, archedglasswindowpanes, etc. thatresultinauniquelystyledone-of-a-kindhome.
RecommendedActions
AdoptResolutionNo. PC-2024-36 designatingthe propertylocatedat 156 HillcrestDriveasHistorical (Local) LandmarkNo. HL-112andrecommending theCityCouncilapprovea GeneralPlanRevisionto makecorresponding amendmentstoTable6andExhibit3ofTheFullertonPlan.
Projectis CategoricallyExemptfrom CEQAper Section15331, Historic ResourcePreservation.
GeneralPlanConsistency:
ConsistentwithTheFullertonPlangoalsandpoliciesthatencourageraisingtheawarenessofthevalueofhistoricresources andreinforcingthecharacterandsenseofplace.
PRJ2024-00008
LocalLandmarkDesignation
156HillcrestDrive
LandmarksCommissionPublicHearing
ZoomMeeting ID: 89315253564