A Unanimous Decision
The home where Marilyn Monroe lived and died has officially been designated a local historical landmark, following a unanimous vote by the Los Angeles City Council. This decision marks the end of a lengthy battle to preserve the iconic Spanish Colonial-style house from demolition.
In a decisive 12-0 vote, the council added the house to its roster of properties deemed historically significant. The designation received strong support from the City Council’s land use management subcommittee and the city’s cultural heritage commission. Traci Park, the City Council member who introduced the proposal, stated:
There is no other person or place in the city of Los Angeles as iconic as Marilyn Monroe and her Brentwood home. To lose this piece of history, the only home that Marilyn Monroe ever owned, would be a devastating blow for historic preservation and for a city where less than 3 percent of historic designations are associated with women’s heritage.
Historic Significance
The four-bedroom house, now part of a list of about 1,300 significant sites in Los Angeles, is one of approximately 444 private residences with this designation. Monroe, a pop culture icon of the 1950s, purchased the 2,900-square-foot hacienda for $75,000 in 1962. The home, built in 1929, is situated in the Helenas, a set of 25 cul-de-sacs known for their privacy. Monroe’s personal touches, including furniture and décor from Mexico, added unique historical value to the property.
The Win Comes After A Protracted Community Battle
The landmark status comes after a judge in Superior Court in Los Angeles County denied an injunction request by the owners, Brinah Milstein and Roy Bank, who sought to prevent the historical designation. They accused the city of “backroom machinations” and claimed the process was rushed and biased. Despite these accusations, the court upheld the city's decision, and the owners’ lawsuit against the city is pending, with a trial-setting conference scheduled for August 13.
The Magic of Hollywood
Fans and preservationists argued that the house is a crucial part of Hollywood history and Monroe’s legacy. “She represents the magic of Hollywood and Los Angeles,” said Terrence London, a local resident who advocated for the house's preservation. He emphasized the historical significance of Monroe's influence on the home's design.
Anything Could Happen
While the designation does not prohibit demolition, it requires a rigorous review process by the heritage commission. Ms. Milstein and Mr. Bank had initially planned to demolish the house and combine the property with an adjacent lot they own. They argued that Monroe’s primary residence was in New York City at the time of her death and that the house had been significantly altered over the years. However, these arguments did not sway the council's decision.
Moving Forward
Council member Park expressed hope for a resolution that might include relocating the house to make it publicly accessible. She also introduced a motion to evaluate tour bus restrictions in the area to address neighborhood concerns about traffic and safety.
“Let’s preserve this essential piece of L.A.’s history and culture,” Park stated, underscoring the importance of maintaining Monroe's legacy in the city where she became a legend.
This landmark designation ensures that the legacy of Marilyn Monroe and her Brentwood home will continue to be a cherished part of Los Angeles' cultural heritage.
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