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Cg41FOfl��P» - CITY COUNCIL STAFF REPORT
DATE: September 3, 2014 PUBLIC HEARING
SUBJECT: AN APPLICATION BY THE CITY OF PALM SPRINGS, CALIFORNIA
HISTORIC SITE PRESERVATION BOARD (HSPB), IN
COLLABORATION WITH JOHN MANLY, (OWNER), REQUESTING
CLASS 1 HISTORIC DESIGNATION FOR "THE CHARLIE FARRELL
RESIDENCE" LOCATED AT 630 EAST TACHEVAH DRIVE (HSPB-80)
AND THE ASSOCIATED "GUEST HOUSE" AT 1120 NORTH VIA
MIRALESTE (HSPB-81), ZONE R-1-13.
FROM: David H. Ready, City Manager
BY: Department of Planning Services
SUMMARY
On May 8, 2012, pursuant to Municipal Code Section 8.05.135, the City of Palm Springs
Historic Site Preservation Board (HSPB) initiated investigation and study of "The Charlie
Farrell Residence" at 630 East Tachevah Drive (HSPB Case #80) and a second parcel
at 1120 North Via Miraleste (HSPB Case #81) for possible historic designation. Both
parcels are currently owned by the same person who provided a letter of support for the
proposed designation (attached).
The Board's study revealed that originally the two structures were located on the same
lot — built as a "main house" and a separate "guest house", but in 1947 the lot was split
leaving the rather insignificant guest house on its own lot.
The Board recommends Class 1 designation only for the Charlie Farrell House because
it determined that the guest house - by itself on a separate parcel — does not meet the
qualifications required to be deemed historically significant. The Board's
recommendation included conditions however, by which both parcels if merged together
again, could qualify as one Class 1 historic site.
RECOMMENDATION:
1. Open the public hearing and receive public testimony.
2. Adopt Resolution _, "A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE
CITY OF PALM SPRINGS, CALIFORNIA DESIGNATING THE PARCEL AT 630
ITEM NO.
City Council Staff Report September 3,2014
Case HSPB-80 and HSPB-81 Application for Class 1 historic designation Page 2 of 11
EAST TACHEVAH DRIVE AS CLASS 1 HISTORIC SITE "HSPB 80", SUBJECT
TO CONDITIONS."
3. Take no action on HSPB 81, "The Guest House" at 1120 North Via Miraleste.
May 8,2012 HSPB initiated study for possible Class 1 designation pursuant to PSMC 8.05.135.
June 24&26, 2014 Site inspection by members of the HSPB and CRY Staff.
July 8, 2014 The Historic Site Preservation Board recommended that the City Council designate 630 East
Tachevah Drive as Class 1 historic site HSPB#80 with conditions.
None
2011 1 Purchase by current owner of both parcels.
BACKGROUND AND SETTING
Historic Preservation activities in Palm Springs are regulated under Municipal Code
Section 8.05 ("Historic Preservation'). The purpose of the Historic Preservation
Ordinance is:
"... for the purpose of preserving areas and specific buildings of the city
which reflect elements of its cultural, social, economic, political,
architectural and archaeological history. This chapter is intended to
stabilize and improve buildings, structures or areas which are considered
to be of historical, architectural, archaeological or ecological value, to
foster civic beauty, to strengthen the local economy and to promote the
use of specific buildings for the education and welfare of the citizens."
Definition of an Historic Site.
Section 8.05.020 of the Municipal Code provides the definition of a historic site as
follows. The staff report evaluated both sites, HSPB-80: (located at 630 East Tachevah
Drive hereinafter referred to as "the main house"), and HSPB-81: (located at 1120
North Via Mlraleste, hereinafter referred to as "the guest house") against this definition
and provided discussion on each item as it relates to this specific sites below.
(a) Historic Site.
An historic site is any real property such as: a building, a structure, including but not
limited to archways, tiled areas and similar architectural elements; an archaeological
excavation or object that is unique or significant because of its location, design,
setting, materials, workmanship or aesthetic effect and.•
02
City Council Staff Report September 3, 2014
Case HSPB-80 and HSPB-81 Application for Class 1 historic designation Page 3 of 11
HSPB-80 "The Main House': The Charlie Farrell Residence is significant because of its
design, setting, and aesthetic effect, as characterized further in this staff report.
HSPB-81 "The Guest House": although part of the same parcel for about twelve years
(1935 to 1947), the parcel on which guest house is located was split from the main
house in 1947 and when analyzed independently, it is less significant in its design,
setting and aesthetic effect,
1. That is associated with events that have made a meaningful contribution to the
nation, state or community; or
The HSPB does not believe the sites are associated with events that have made a
meaningful contribution to the national state or local community.
2. That is associated with lives of persons who made meaningful contribution to
national, state or local history; or
HSPB-80: The site at 630 East Tachevah Drive is associated with Actor Charlie Farrell,
who co-founded the Palm Springs Racquet Club in 1934 with fellow actor Ralph
Bellamy. Farrell made a meaningful contribution to national history as a noted actor and
to local history with the creation and management of the Racquet Club, which
contributed significantly to the celebrity status of Palm Springs and as mayor from 1948
to 1953.
HSPB-81: The guest house is associated with Gayle Thomson, a local photographer
who, through his friendship with Farrell, captured many images of the stars and
celebrities at the Racquet Club. The HSPB does not believe Thomson rises to the level
of status of a person of significance at a national, state or local level.
3. That reflects or exemplifies a particular period of the national, state or local
history; or
HSPB-80: The Charlie Farrell Residence was constructed in 1934 in the Spanish
Colonial Revival architectural style. It reflects the period in Palm Springs when many
actors and celebrities built sprawling and exclusive estate-like homes in Palm Springs,
reflective of the early "haciendas' from the period of Spanish colonization of the
Americas.
HSPB-81: The Guest House was constructed in a similar style and period as the main
house, however as a stand-alone structure on its own parcel, it does not reflect the
grand scale and estate-like setting of the main house. The HSPB does not believe it
exemplifies the period in which it was constructed.
4. That embodies the distinctive characteristics of a type, period or method of
construction;
- 03
City Council Staff Report September 3,2014
Case HSPB-80 and HSPB-81 Application for Class 1 historic designation Page 4 of 11
HSPB-80: The Charlie Farrell Residence embodies the distinctive characteristics of the
Spanish Colonial Revival architectural style in its sprawling floor plan, materials, and
architectural detailing.
HSPB-81: The guest house was evaluated as a separate structure on its own parcel.
While constructed of a similar architectural style and period as the main house it is more
modest in its scale and does not sufficiently embody the distinctive feel of a large
estate-style residence which is characteristic of the main house.
5. That presents the work of a master builder, designer, artist, or architect whose
individual genius influenced his age; or that possesses high artistic value;
HSPB-80: The original architect of the Charlie Farrell Residence is currently unknown,
however notable architect Albert Frey is credited as the architect of record for an
addition to the back side (north) of the home. The portions of the home alleged to be
designed by Albert Frey have been significantly altered and although these elements
now replicate the Spanish Colonial Revival style of the original architecture of the home,
it is not a noteworthy example of Frey's work.
HSPB-81: The architect of the guest house is unknown.
6. That represents a significant and distinguishable entity whose components may
lack individual distinction;
The HSPB does not believe the subject property meets this condition.
7. That has yielded or may be likely to yield information important to national, state
or local history or prehistory.
The HSPB is unaware of any archaeological or pre-historical relevancy to this site.
Designation of Historic Sites.
Only the City Council is authorized to designate historic sites. When the Historic Site
Preservation Board determines that Class 1 historic designation of a certain site or
district would further the purpose of the Historic Preservation Ordinance, the Board may
initiate studies, surveys and investigations it deems necessary to adequately gather
information in consideration of such a recommendation to the City Council.
Conditions that apply to Class 1 Historic Sites.
According to Section 8.05 of the Municipal Code, the following shall apply to a Class 1
Historic Site:
1. It shall meet the definition of a historic site as outlined in Municipal Code Section
8.05.020.
2. An archival file shall be maintained on the property by the City.
3. It may be qualified as `historic' at the federal, state, and/or county level.
04
City Council Staff Report September 3,2014
Case HSPB-80 and HSPB-81 Application for Class 1 historic designation Page 5 of 11
4. The structure/site may not be modified nor objects removed without the approval
of the City Council.
5. The use may be limited by the City Council to the extent that it may impair the
integrity of the site.
6. A marker explaining the historic nature of the site will be installed at the site in a
location viewable from the public way.
7. Compliance with all rules and regulations for Historic Sites and Historic Districts
under Article IV of Chapter 8.05 of the Municipal Code shall be required.
DESCRIPTION AND ANALYSIS
The home at 630 East Tachevah was constructed around 1934 in the Spanish / Colonial
Revival style reflective of the large sprawling Spanish "haciendas" (estates) or "quintas"
(country homes) from the period of Spanish colonization in the southwestern region of
the United States and much of Mexico.
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1120 North Via Miraleste
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630 East Tachevah Drive
AERIAL PHOTO OF 630 EAST TACHEVAH AND 1120 NORTH VIA MIRALESTE
It appears that the home was built by local builder/developer Ernst Off for a Beverly Hills
investment broker named Alexander Henry. The roughly acre-sized parcel was part of
a very large landholding on the north side of Palm Springs that local developer Prescott
Thresher "P.T." Stevens had purchased from the Southern Pacific Railroad. Stevens
was a cattleman from Colorado who was born in 1846. P.T .Stevens and his wife
Francis Stevens (after whom Francis Stevens School is dedicated), moved to Palm
Springs shortly after 1912 due to Mrs. Stevens' respiratory problems. After his death in
1932, P.T.'s daughter Sally and husband Culver Nichols subdivided much of the land
and sold the roughly acre-sized parcel which is the subject of this report to Off in 1933.
05
City Council Staff Report September 3,2014
Case HSPB-80 and HSPB-81 Application for Class 1 historic designation Page 6 of 11
The home changed hands several times through the thirties and forties. In 1947, a
guest house that had been built on the northwest portion of the acre-sized parcel at
approximately the same time as the main house, was split off and sold as a separate
parcel with its own tax number and address of 1120 North Via Miraleste.
Charlie Farrell and his wife Virginia purchased the main house at 630 Tachevah in 1952
and lived there until their deaths. It appears that the Farrell's first permanent recorded
residence in Palm Springs was a home that Charlie had built for the couple at the Palm
Springs Racquet Club in 1938. The Farrell's lived at the Racquet Club until 1951, when
records show they moved briefly into the Grace Lewis Miller House at 2311 North Indian
Canyon Drive. Charlie Farrell is a person of local and national significance, having built
a relatively successful career as an actor, starting in the silent movie era of the 1920's.
Farrell is also a very significant person in Palm Springs because of the Palm Springs
Racquet Club, which he and fellow actor Ralph Bellamy began in 1932. For decades,
the Palm Springs Racquet Club was "the" desert playground for Hollywood actors and
celebrities; and was almost singularly responsible for Palm Springs' world renowned
reputation as a star-studded exclusive getaway for the rich and famous. In addition
Farrell served as mayor from 1948 until 1953. Farrell and his wife Virginia lived in the
house on Tachevah from 1952 until their deaths in 1990 and 1968, respectively.
After being split off from the main house in 1947, the guest house at 1120 North Via
Miraleste went through a number of owners also. From 1954 until 1960 the guest
house was owned by Mr. Gayle Thomson and his wife Violet. Thomson was a
photographer who, through his friendship with Farrell, became somewhat well-known for
his photographs taken of the celebrities who were lounging and enjoying time at the
Racquet Club.
Although the two houses remain on separately defined parcels since 1947, they have
been purchased and sold to the same owners since about 1980 when Bank of America
took ownership of both homes as Trustee for Farrell. The parcels however remain
separate, each with its own APN, separate lot and address.
DEFINING HISTORIC CHARACTERISTICS
The Charlie Farrell House is constructed in a relatively modest "vernacular' version of
Spanish Colonial Revival. It has been extensively renovated by the current owner with
a number of new elements added that are "sympathetic" of the style, but not necessarily
authentic. What is noteworthy is that the overall scale and detailing of the house is
rather modest. Although interior features of privately-owned sites are not considered as
part of evaluation of possible historic designation; staff notes that most of the rooms in
the home are of a very modest, almost "cozy" in dimension and scale and were not
created on a grand or "opulent" scale. It appears it was created as a casual,
comfortable home to be enjoyed by its residents and their friends and guests in small
numbers. It is not a house that, "in its day" would lend itself to large-event parties or
entertaining.
06
City Council Staff Report September 3,2014
Case HSPB-80 and HSPB-81 Application for Class 1 historic designation Page 7 of 11
The physical character-defining historic features at 630 East Tachevah Drive include the
following:
1. Half-round terra cotta clay tile roof.
2. Thin, wrought iron window grills.
3. The wrought iron-enclosed "window seat" and its associated roof.
4. The "CDF" steel emblem welded into the ironwork over the main entry archway.
5. The smooth stucco exterior walls.
6. The heavy timber rafter tails and projecting eaves.
7. The clay tile chimney caps.
8. The stucco extended sill at the windows.
9. The open archway at the entry separating a guest wing (formerly the garage)
from the main house.
10.The original painted steel sash casement windows.
11.The courtyard/rose garden on the east side of the home.
Elements that appear to have been added or modified and are deemed "non-
contributing" include the following:
1. The pavers in the driveway.
2. The new garage.
3. The heavy iron gates at the main pedestrian entry (original photos show this as a
wood gate).
4. The replacement windows and doors with insulating dual-pane glass.
5. Light fixtures in the entry archway cannot be confirmed as original
6. The courtyard fountain.
7. The wood timbered back porch (north elevation).
8. The swimming pool.
9. The half-height partitions enclosing the outdoor kitchen and grill.
10.The extensive grassy lawn.
11.Infill of several windows (west fagade).
12.The decorative antique wood brackets on the rose garden perimeter walls.
13.The pairs of wood doors with multi-paned windows across the north side of the
home.
The "Guest House" at 1120 North Via Miraleste, although records denote it was
constructed at roughly the same time as the main house, has also had numerous
modifications over the years. The HSPB's evaluation of the guest house physical
characteristics that may be deemed "original" is as follows:
1. The half-round terra cotta clay roof tiles.
2. The glazed decorative tile around the main front door.
3. The stucco molding around the windows.
4. The wrought iron window grills.
5. The clay tile chimney caps.
07
City Council Staff Report September 3,2014
Case HSPB-80 and HSPB-81 Application for Class 1 historic designation Page 8 of 11
Elements that do not appear original or are "non-contributing".
1. The vinyl thermalpane windows and other"replacement" windows and doors.
2. The aluminum sliding window on the north fagade.
3. The garage.
REQUIRED FINDINGS
In considering a recommendation for Class 1 historic designation, pursuant to Municipal
Code Section 8.05.160, the Board and the City Council shall find that the purposes of
the Historic Preservation chapter are furthered by designation of such property as a
historic site or district. The purpose of the Historic Preservation chapter of the Municipal
Code is outlined in PSMC 8.05.010:
This chapter is adopted pursuant to the authority of (California)
Government Code Section 37361 for the purpose of preserving areas and
specific buildings of the city which reflect elements of its cultural, social,
economic, political, architectural and archaeological history. This chapter
is intended to stabilize and improve buildings, structures or areas which
are considered to be of historical, architectural, archaeological or
ecological value, to foster civic beauty, to strengthen the local economy
and to promote the use of specific buildings for the education and welfare
of the citizens. (Ord. 140 §
The conclusion of this report from the research and information found, is that the main
house at 630 East Tachevah is historically significant, pursuant to the Palm Springs
Municipal Code Section 8.05 in the following ways:
1. The home is representative of a particular period in history: the early era of
resort development in Palm Springs (1900 through 1940), when large estate-
sized homes built by actors, merchants and celebrities brought a wealthy and
sophisticated population to the small village, and who in turn influenced its
commercial, retail, and architectural development, as well as its cultural and
social underpinnings in an exclusive and affluent way.
The site appears to possess sufficient historic significance that if designated as a Class
1 historic site, would contribute to the purpose and intent of the City's Historic
Preservation Ordinance, that is,
"—preserving areas and specific buildings of the city which reflect
elements of its cultural, social, economic, political, architectural and
archaeological history. This chapter is intended to stabilize and improve
buildings, structures or areas which are considered to be of historical,
architectural, archaeological or ecological value, to foster civic beauty, to
strengthen the local economy and to promote the use of specific buildings
for the education and welfare of the citizens."
08
City Council Staff Report September 3,2014
Case HSPB-80 and HSPB-81 Application for Class 1 historic designation Page 9 of 11
Of lesser significance is the association of the guest house at 1120 North Via Miraleste
with photographer Gayle Thomson. Who, through his association and friendship with
Farrell developed an extensive portfolio of photographs of the stars and celebrities
enjoying time at the Racquet Club.
Although both structures were at one time a single estate, the land on which the guest
house is sited was separated from the main house in 1947. As a "stand-alone"
structure, although it is similar in its architectural style, it does not rise to the same level
of historic significance as that of the main house at 630 East Tachevah.
Class 1 designation of the Charlie Farrell Residence at 630 East Tachevah Drive would
further the purpose of the historic preservation ordinance because it reflects elements of
the City's architectural, social, and cultural history as follows:
1. That is associated with lives of persons who made meaningful contribution
to national, state or local history
It is associated with a person of significance at the local, state, and national level:
Charlie Farrell. Farrell was a relatively successful actor whose career began during the
silent movie era. Farrell and his actor friend Ralph Bellamy, both avid tennis players,
created the Palm Springs Racquet Club in 1933 which became "the" Hollywood and
celebrity hangout for decades. The Racquet Club contributed significantly to Palm
Springs' worldwide reputation as a playground for actors, celebrities and the wealthy.
Farrell also served two terms as mayor of Palm Springs from 1948 to 1953.
2. That embodies the distinctive characteristics of a type, period or method of
construction; or
It is a classic example of Spanish Colonial Revival architecture, reflective of the large
haciendas (estates) or "quintas" (country homes) of the Spanish Colonial era built in the
southwestern part of the United States and parts of Mexico.
3. That presents the work of a master builder, designer, artist, or architect
whose individual genius influenced his age; or that possesses high artistic
value;
Also of lesser significance is the association of this site with notable architect Albert
Frey, who designed a number of minor additions to the home. These additions appear
to have been substantially modified and are not noteworthy relative to the development
of Frey's design aesthetic or his emergence as an architect of national and international
significance.
4. That reflects or exemplifies a particular period of the national, state or
local history; or
09
City Council Staff Report September 3, 2014
Case HSPB-80 and HSPB-81 Application for Class 1 historic designation Page 10 of 11
The Charlie Farrell Residence was constructed around 1934 in the Spanish Colonial
Revival architectural style. It reflects the period in Palm Springs when many actors and
celebrities built large exclusive estate-like homes in Palm Springs.
CONCLUSION
The "main house' at 630 East Tachevah Drive (HSPB-80) is historically significant in a
number of ways and its designation as a Class 1 historic site would further the purpose
of the Historic Preservation ordinance.
The "guest house" at 1120 North Via Miraleste (HSPB-81), although of a similar
architectural style and construction date, was split off from the main house in 1947 and
exists today as a completely separate parcel. As a stand-alone site, it does not reflect
the same estate-like sprawling "hacienda-like" setting and qualities as the main house.
Furthermore, although owned and occupied for around eight years by photographer
Gayle Thomson, staff does not believe Thomson rises to the level of a person of local,
state or national significance.
The HSPB does not believe the guest house when analyzed by itself and on its own
merit, would further the purposes of the Historic Preservation ordinance. If merged with
the same parcel as the main house, it could be reasonably argued that the guest house
would then contribute as an accessory structure to the physical setting and significance
as a notable example of the Spanish Colonial Revival architectural style and the grand
hacienda-like quality of the main house site. As such, the HSPB's recommendation
includes a condition of approval that if the parcel on which the guest house is sited were
merged again with the main house, it would contribute to the historic significance of the
entire site. Under those circumstances, it would be logical to grant Class 1 status to
both structures on one contiguous site.
As a separate stand-alone parcel, the HSPB recommends that no action be taken on
recommending Class 1 historic status for the guest house, (1120 North Via Mlraleste,
HSPB-81).
ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT
In accordance with Section 15331 (Historical Resources Restoration/Rehabilitation) of
the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA), the proposed designation is
categorically exempt from environmental review as the proposed designation meets the
conditions outlined for preservation of a historic resource (Class 31 Categorical
Exemption).
10
City Council Staff Report September 3,2014
Case HSPB-80 and HSPB-81 Application for Class 1 historic designation Page 11 of 11
NOTIFICATION
Pursuant to section 8.05.140 of the Municipal Code of Palm Springs, All property
owners within five hundred (500) feet of the subject property have been notified and
notice was made in a newspaper of general circulation. Letters of public comment are
attached to this staff report.
Douglas R. Evans, David H. Read
Interim Director of Planning Services City Manage
Attachments:
1. Vicinity Map
2. Draft Resolution
3. Historic Resources Survey with attachments
4. Property Information Reports.
5. Letter of support from the owner.
6. Excerpt of HSPB minutes of July 8, 2014 and May 8, 2012.
7. Public Comment letters.
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CITY OF PALM SPRINGS
CASE NO's: DESCRIPTION: Application by the City of Palm
HSPB 80 and HSPB 81 Springs Historic Site Preservation Board for Class 1
historic designation of 630 East Tachevah Drive,
APPLICANT: City of Palm Springs (APN 507-092-008) known as "The Charlie Farrell
House" and 1120 North Via Mlraleste, known as
"The Guest House", (APN 507-092-009).
. 12
RESOLUTION NO.
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF
PALM SPRINGS, CALIFORNIA, DESIGNATING THE
PROPERTY LOCATED AT 630 EAST TACHEVAH DRIVE,
("THE CHARLIE FARRELL HOUSE") AS CLASS 1
HISTORIC SITE, (HSPB #80)
WHEREAS, on May 8, 2012, pursuant to Municipal Code Section 8.05.135, the City of
Palm Springs Historic Site Preservation Board (HSPB) initiated investigation and study
of "The Charlie Farrell Residence" at 630 East Tachevah Drive (HSPB Case #80) (APN
#507-092-008) and the associated guest house at 1120 North Via Miraleste (HSPB
Case #81) (APN# 507-092-009) for possible historic designation; and
WHEREAS, Chapter 8.05 of the Palm Springs Municipal Code allows for the
designation of historic sites; and
WHEREAS, a notice of public hearing of the Historic Site Preservation Board to
consider a recommendation for Class 1 historic designation of The Charlie Farrell
House (HSPB #80) and 'The Guest House (HSPB #81) was issued in accordance with
applicable law; and
WHEREAS, on July 8, 2014, the Historic Site Preservation Board conducted a public
hearing on the subject applications in accordance with applicable law; and
WHEREAS, The Historic Site Preservation Board carefully reviewed and considered all
of the evidence in connection with the designation, including but not limited to the staff
report, application and historical research, and all written and oral testimony presented
and voted 6-1 (Ploss opposed) to recommend that
(a) the City Council designate 'The Charlie Farrell House" at 630 East Tachevah
Drive as Class 1 historic site "HSPB #80'; and
(b) the City Council take no action on 'The Guest House" at 1120 North Via
Miraleste "HSPB #81", and
(c) only as a condition of approval, the Board would recommend that if the applicant
merges the two parcels on which the Charlie Farrell House (HSPB #80) is
located with the parcel on which 'The Guest House" (HSPB #81) is located, that
the Guest House be included in the Class 1 designation.
WHEREAS, a notice of public hearing of the City Council of the City of Palm Springs,
California to consider a recommendation for Class 1 historic designation of 'The Charlie
Farrell House" (HSPB #80) and `The Guest House" (HSPB 81) was issued in
accordance with applicable law; and
WHEREAS, on September 3, 2014, the City Council conducted a public hearing on the
subject application in accordance with applicable law; and
13
City Council Resolution No.
Page 2
WHEREAS, the City Council carefully reviewed and considered all of the evidence in
connection with the designation, including but not limited to the staff report, application
and historical research, and all written and oral testimony.
THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF PALM SPRINGS, CALIFORNIA DOES
HEREBY RESOLVE AS FOLLOWS:
SECTION 1:
The subject sites are located in the Movie Colony Neighborhood at 630 East Tachevah
Drive (HSPB #80, "The Charlie Farrell House" APN 507-092-008) on a roughly 36,055
square foot lot and at 1120 North Via Miraleste (HSPB #81, "The Guest House" APN
507-092-009) on a roughly 12,497 square foot lot.
SECTION 2:
The Charlie Farrell House at 630 East Tachevah Drive is historically significant because
(a) It is associated with Charlie Farrell, a person of local, state and national
significance. Farrell lived in the home from 1952 until his death in 1990. Farrell
was a person of significance because of (1) his long career as a television and
movie star beginning in the 1920's in the silent movie era, (2) his association as
co-founder and long time manager of the Palm Springs Racquet Club, an entity
that contributed to Palm Springs' reputation as a playground for celebrities and
movie stars, (3) and his tenure as Mayor of Palm Springs from 1948 until 1952.
(b) It presents an excellent example of the architecture of a large Spanish Colonial
Revival Estate. On this particular parcel can be found the following defining
architectural features and characteristics:
1. A rambling floor plan with various parts of the house connected by open
archways and courtyards,
2. Half-round terra cotta clay roof tiles.
3. Thin, wrought iron window grills.
4. The wrought iron-enclosed "window seat" on the south facade and its
associated roof.
5. The "CDF" steel emblem welded into the ironwork over the main entry
archway.
6. The smooth stucco exterior walls.
7. The heavy timber rafter tails and projecting eaves.
8. The clay tile chimney caps.
9. The stucco extended sill at the windows.
10.The open archway at the entry separating a guest wing (formerly the garage)
from the main house.
11.The original painted steel sash casement windows.
12.The courtyard/rose garden on the east side of the home.
(c) It presents a particular style or type of development that was prevalent in Palm
Springs when it emerged in the 1930's and 40's as an exclusive 'get-away'
14
City Council Resolution No.
Page 3
destination for wealthy industrialists and celebrities from the Hollywood Movie
industry.
(d) It has a minor association with notable architect Albert Frey, who designed
modest additions to the home in the 1940's.
SECTION 3:
Class 1 designation of the Charlie Farrell House at 630 East Tachevah Drive would
further the purpose of the City's Historic Preservation Ordinance (Municipal Code
Section 8.05), which is:
"...preserving areas and specific buildings of the city which reflect
elements of its cultural, social, economic, political, architectural and
archaeological history. This chapter is intended to stabilize and improve
buildings, structures or areas which are considered to be of historical,
architectural, archaeological or ecological value, to foster civic beauty, to
strengthen the local economy and to promote the use of specific buildings
for the education and welfare of the citizens."
SECTION 4:
Those elements of the site that appear to have been added or modified and are hereby
deemed "non-contributing" include the following:
1. The pavers in the driveway.
2. The new garage.
3. The heavy iron gates at the main pedestrian entry (original photos show this as a
wood gate).
4. The replacement windows and doors with insulating thermalpane glass.
5. Light fixtures in the entry archway cannot be confirmed as original.
6. The courtyard fountain.
7. The wood timbered back porch (north elevation).
8. The swimming pool.
9. The half-height partitions enclosing the outdoor kitchen and grill.
10.The extensive grassy lawn.
11.Infill of several windows (west fagade).
12.The decorative antique wood brackets on the rose garden perimeter walls.
13.The pairs of wood doors with multi-paned windows across the north side of the
home.
SECTION 5:
The "guest house" at 1120 North Via Miraleste (HSPB-81), although of a similar
architectural style and construction date as the main house, was split off from the main
house in 1947 and exists today as a completely separate parcel. As a stand-alone site,
it does not reflect the same estate-like sprawling "hacienda-like' setting and qualities as
the main house nor is it a significant example of a style of architecture or a period of
construction. Only when evaluated as an integral part of the larger estate does it
contribute to the conveyance of historical significance. Furthermore, although owned
15
City Council Resolution No.
Page 4
and occupied for around eight years by photographer Gayle Thomson, Thomson does
not rise to the level of a person of local, state or national significance.
The guest house, when considered by itself and on its own merit, would not further the
purposes of the Historic Preservation ordinance. If merged with the same parcel as the
main house, the guest house would then contribute as an accessory structure to the
physical setting and significance as a notable example of the Spanish Colonial Revival
architectural style and the grand hacienda-like quality of the site. As such, the Council
hereby includes a condition of approval that if the parcel on which the guest house is
sited were merged again with the main house, it would contribute to the historic
significance of the entire site and the granting of Class 1 status would be conveyed to
both structures on one contiguous site.
SECTION 6:
The "Guest House' at 1120 North Via Miraleste, although records denote was
constructed at roughly the same time as the main house, has had numerous
modifications over the years. Thus, if the parcels are merged, the guest house physical
characteristics that may be deemed "contributing" are as follows:
1. The half-round terra cotta clay roof tiles.
2. The glazed decorative tile around the main front door.
3. The stucco molding around the windows.
4. The wrought iron window grills.
5. The clay tile chimney caps.
Elements that are "non-contributing":
1. The vinyl "dual-pane" windows and other replacement windows and doors.
2. The aluminum sliding window on the north fagade.
3. The garage.
SECTION 7:
In accordance with Section 15331 (Historical Resources Restoration/Rehabilitation) of
the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA), the proposed designation is
categorically exempt from environmental review as the proposed designation meets the
conditions outlined for preservation of a historic resource (Class 31 Categorical
Exemption).
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that, based upon the foregoing, the City
Council does hereby designate the entire site located at 630 East Tachevah Drive, "The
Charlie Farrell House", as Class 1 Historic Site HSPB #80, subject to the following
conditions;
1. The property owner shall permit the City to place a historic marker of the
City's choosing at the site. The marker shall be placed in a location visible
from the public right-of-way. The owner shall maintain the marker in the
location installed and pay for the replacement cost if the plaque is lost, stolen,
16
City Council Resolution No.
Page 5
damaged or otherwise removed from the property.
2. All future modifications of the existing structures as well as any alterations,
additions or new structures proposed on the site shall require HSPB review
pursuant Municipal Code Ordinance 8.05.180.
3. All requirements of the Palm Springs Zoning Code shall be met.
4. The City Clerk shall submit the Council Resolution to the County recorder for
recordation within 90 days of the effective date of this resolution.
5. Any alterations or modifications to the exterior approved prior to the
designation of this site by the City Council shall be considered legal, non-
conforming only as to Section 8.05 of the Palm Springs Municipal Code.
6. This Class 1 designation applies to 630 East Tachevah Drive. The Class 1
designation does not apply to 1120 North Via Miraleste unless the two parcels
are merged within 60 days of this action and prior to the recordation of this
action with the County Recorder. Written proof of the completion of such
merger shall accompany, and be made a part of the documentation submitted
to the City Clerk for recordation with the County Recorder's Office.
ADOPTED this 3'd day of September, 2014
AYES:
NOES:
ABSENT:
ABSTENTIONS:
ATTEST: CITY OF PALM SPRINGS, CALIFORNIA
James Thompson, City Clerk
17
City Council Resolution No.
Page 6
CERTIFICATION
STATE OF CALIFORNIA )
COUNTY OF RIVERSIDE ) ss.
CITY OF PALM SPRINGS )
I, JAMES THOMPSON, City Clerk of the City of Palm Springs, hereby certify that
Resolution No. is a full, true and correct copy, and was duly adopted at a regular
meeting of the City Council of the City of Palm Springs on
by the following vote:
AYES:
NOES:
ABSENT:
ABSTAIN:
James Thompson, City Clerk
City of Palm Springs, California
,. Z 8
LM Sp
City of Palm Springs
Department of Planning Services
3200 East Tahquitz Canyon Way • Palm Springs, CA 92262
Tel:760-323-8245 • Fax:760-322-8360
HISTORIC RESOURCE REPORT
FOR THE RESIDENCES LOCATED AT 630 EAST TACHEVAH DRIVE
"THE CHARLIE FARRELL HOUSE" (HSPB-80)
AND
1120 NORTH VIA MIRALESTE
"THE GUEST HOUSE" (HSPB-81 )
FOR CONSIDERATION OF CLASS 1 HISTORIC DESIGNATION
HSPB Case #80 — 630 East Tachevah Road
"The Charlie Farrell House"
(APN #507-092-008)
And
HSPB Case #81 — 1120 North Via Miraleste
"The Guest House"
(APN 507-092-009)
June, 2014
19
Page 2 of 18
t
y
i
T + P�
CHARLES FARRELL 1901 - 1990
INTRODUCTION.
On May 8, 2012, pursuant to Municipal Code Section 8.05.135, the City of Palm Springs
Historic Site Preservation Board (HSPB) initiated investigation and study of "The Charlie
Farrell House" at 630 East Tachevah Drive (HSPB Case #80) and the former guest
house at 1120 North Via Miraleste (HSPB Case #81).
Investigation on the subject parcels was conducted, and information compiled by HSPB
board member Roxann Floss, architectural historian Patrick McGrew, former Palm
Springs Planning Director Craig A. Ewing, AICP and edited by staff member, Ken Lyon,
RA, associate planner.
20
Post Office Box 2743 • Palm Springs, CA 92263-2743 • Web: �.palmsprings-ca.gov
Page 3 of 18
TABLE OF CONTENTS.
Introduction
I. Executive Summary
II. Chronology of Development and Ownership
III. Summary of Chain of Ownership Title.
IV. Architectural Significance 630 East Tachevah Drive
V. Summary of Persons of Significance Associated — 630 East Tachevah Drive
VI. Summary of Evaluation of 1120 North Via Miraleste
VII. Conclusion
Vill. Bibliography / References
I. EXECUTIVE SUMMARY.
The home at 630 East Tachevah was constructed around 1934 in the Spanish Colonial
Revival style reflective of the large sprawling Spanish "haciendas' (estates) or "quintas"
(country homes) of the Spanish Colonial era in the southwestern region of the United
States and much of Mexico.
1120 North Via Miraleste
A
MENEF
630 East Tachevah Drive
�y
AERIAL PHOTO OF 630 EAST TACHEVAH AND 1120 NORTH VIA MIRALESTE
Post Office Box 2743 • Palm Springs, CA 92263-2743 • Web: www.palmsprings-ca.gory 21
Page 4 of 18
It appears that the lot was purchased in 1933 and the home was built in 1934 by local
builder/developer Ernst Off and sold in 1935 to a Beverly Hills investment broker named
Alexander Ellwood Henry. The roughly acre-sized parcel was part of a very large
landholding on the north side of Palm Springs that local developer Prescott Thresher
"P.T." Stevens had purchased from the Southern Pacific Railroad. Stevens was a
cattleman from Colorado who was born in 1846. P.T .Stevens and his wife Francis
Stevens (after whom Francis Stevens School is dedicated), moved to Palm Springs
shortly after 1912 due to Mrs. Stevens' respiratory problems. After his death in 1932,
P.T.'s daughter Sally and husband Culver Nichols subdivided much of the land and sold
the roughly acre-sized parcel which is the subject of this report to Off in 1933.
The home changed hands several times through the thirties and forties. In around 1946
the home was bought by S.E. and Dorothy Henderson and in 1947, a guest house that
had been built on the northwest portion of the acre-sized parcel (date of construction for
the guest house is shown in the county database as 1934) was split off and sold as a
separate parcel of approximately 10,019 square feet, with its own tax number and
address of 1120 North Via Miraleste.
Charlie Farrell and his wife Virginia purchased the main house at 630 Tachevah in 1952
and lived there until their deaths (Charlie in 1990 and Virginia in 1968). Charlie Farrell
is a person of local and national significance, having built a relatively successful career
as an actor, starting in the silent movie era of the 1920's. Farrell is also a very
significant person in Palm Springs because of the Palm Springs Racquet Club, which he
and fellow actor Ralph Bellamy began in 1932. For decades, the Palm Springs Racquet
Club was "the" desert playground for Hollywood actors and celebrities; and contributed
significantly to Palm Springs' world renowned reputation as a star-studded exclusive
getaway for the rich and famous. Farrell was also Mayor of Palm Springs from 1948
until 1952.
After being split off from the main house in 1947, the guest house at 1120 North Via
Miraleste went through a number of owners also. From 1954 until 1960 the guest
house was owned by Mr. Gayle Thomson and his wife Violet. Thomson was a
photographer who, through his friendship with Farrell, had rather exclusive access to
photograph the actors and celebrities who were lounging and enjoying time at the
Racquet Club.
Although the two houses remain on separately defined parcels since 1947, they have
been purchased and sold together since about 1980 when Bank of America took
ownership of both homes as Trustee for Farrell. The present owners, John and Jull
Manly purchased both properties in 2011. Manly is an attorney.
The conclusion of this report from the research and investigation conducted, is that the
main house at 630 East Tachevah is historically significant, pursuant to the Palm
Springs Municipal Code Section 8.05 in the following ways:
Post Office Box 2743 • Palm Springs, CA 92263-2743 • Web: w .palmsprings-ca.gov 22
Page 5 of 18
1. The home is representative of a particular period in history: the early era of
resort development in Palm Springs (1900 through 1940), when large estate-
sized homes built by actors, merchants and celebrities brought a wealthy and
sophisticated population to the small village, and who in turn influenced its
commercial, retail, and architectural development, as well as its cultural and
social underpinnings in an exclusive and affluent way.
2. It is a well-maintained example of Spanish / Mediterranean Revival architecture,
reflective of the large haciendas (estates) or "quintas" (country homes) of the
Spanish Colonial era built in the southwestern part of the United States and parts
of Mexico.
3. It is associated with a person of significance at the local, state, and national level:
Charlie Farrell. Farrell was a relatively successful actor whose career began
during the silent movie era. Farrell and his actor friend Ralph Bellamy, both avid
tennis players, created the Palm Springs Racquet Club in 1933 which became
"the" Hollywood and celebrity hangout for decades. The Racquet Club
contributed significantly to Palm Springs' worldwide reputation as a playground
for actors, celebrities and the wealthy. Farrell also served two terms as mayor of
Palm Springs from 1948 to 1953.
4. Of lesser significance is the association of this site with notable architect Albert
Frey, who designed a number of minor additions to the home. These additions
are not particularly noteworthy relative to the development of Frey's design
aesthetic or his emergence as an architect of national and international
significance.
The site appears to possess sufficient historic significance that if designated as a Class
1 historic site, would contribute to the purpose and intent of the City's Historic
Preservation Ordinance, that is,
"...preserving areas and specific buildings of the city which reflect
elements of its cultural, social, economic, political, architectural and
archaeological history. This chapter is intended to stabilize and improve
buildings, structures or areas which are considered to be of historical,
architectural, archaeological or ecological value, to foster civic beauty, to
strengthen the local economy and to promote the use of specific buildings
for the education and welfare of the citizens."
Also of lesser significance is the association of the guest house at 1120 North Via
Miraleste with photographer Gayle Thomson. Who, through his association and
friendship with Farrell developed an extensive portfolio of photographs of the stars and
celebrities enjoying time at the Racquet Club.
Although both structures were at one time a single estate, the land on which the guest
house is sited was separated from the main house in 1947. When analyzed on its own
merit as a "stand-alone" structure, although it is similar in its architectural style, it does
not rise to the same level of historic significance as that of the main house at 630 East
Tachevah.
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Page 6 of 18
II. CHRONOLOGY OF THE DEVELOPMENT AND OWNERSHIP OF THE SITE
As noted above, the roughly acre parcel was initially part of the massive land grant
given from the United States Government to the Southern Pacific Railroad in exchange
for the railroad's investment in developing a rail line through the southwestern United
States to promote development of the country's newly acquired southwest territory.
The initial purchase of the land from the railroad was by P.T. Stevens. Stevens
amassed rather large landholdings on the north side of Palm Springs by the 1920's.
9
nd
After his death in 1932, his heirs, (daughter Sally and her husband F. Culver Nichols)
subdivided and sold off most of the extensive land holdings. The subdivision in which
the subject parcel is located was named "El Mirador Estates".
About The El Mirador Hotel and El Mirador Estates.
In the mid 1920's, Stevens, formed a company with Alvah Hicks and other developers to
construct the El Mirador Hotel, which opened in 1927. The El Mirador Hotel brought a
new level of luxury and amenities to the hotel choices available in Palm Springs at that
time and was a favorite hotel of many movie stars and others of the "Hollywood Elite".
w J,ry � tiki u
➢III i 'I'i�
r
A
THE EL MIRADOR HOTEL.
The subdivision, comprised of large acre-sized parcels became a favorite location for
many wealthy persons to build large estate style homes. In the contemporary aerial
photo below, one can see the Desert Regional Medical Center. This was the site of the
El Mirador Hotel. One can see that the parcel that is the subject of this report was a
highly desirable lot, literally out the back door of what was then the El Mirador Hotel.
Post Office Box 2743 • Palm Springs, CA 92263-2743 • Web: www.palmsprings-ca.gov 24
Page 7 of 18
,tmm
J
SITE
s
AERIAL PHOTO SHOWING THE SITE IN PROXIMITY TO THE DESERT REGIONAL MEDICAL CENTER,
THE MEDICAL CENTER WAS ORIGINALLY THE EL MIRADOR HOTEL(ONE CAN JUST BARELY MAKE OUT THE BELL TOWER IN
THE LOWER LEFT CENTER OF THIS PHOTO WHICH IS A REPLICA OF THE ORIGINAL TOWER AT THE HOTEL.)
The 1936 County of Riverside archival records show that Nichols sold Lot #1, which is
currently listed as 630 East Tachevah Drive to Ernst Orst. Ernst Off purchased the
roughly acre-sized parcel in 1933, constructed the home in roughly 1934 and sold it to
Alexander Henry in 1935, who appears to have been the first occupant of the rambling
Spanish Colonial Revival home. It appears Off had a long history as a "solid builder" in
the town for several decades and apparently built this particular home for a Mr.
Alexander Henry, an investment broker/banker from Beverly Hills.
I
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TACHEVAH
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LL6n 099 10 /J,V
Ip•96 5. 6 09Z•/I
096-IY /e-/s PM/88//9-20 Parcel Mop No. 28/19
111818176 El Miro dor EsiVles
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PORTION OF TRACT MAP 28119 SHOWING SUBJECT PARCELS.
25
Post Office Box 2743 0 Palm Springs, CA 92263-2743 • Web: www.palmsprings-ca.gov
Page 8 of 18
Below is a chart showing the chain of title and the pattern of ownership of the parcels
after construction of the home(s). The column on the left represents dates of ownership
provided by the County of Riverside Archivist from its Robert J. Fitch Archives for the
,'main house" at 630 East Tachevah Drive. Some time around 1947, a lot split was
recorded and the guest house was separated onto its own parcel and sold; given its
own assessor parcel number for tax identification purposes and a separate address of
1120 North Via Miraleste.
III. SUMMARY OF CHAIN OF TITLE FOR 630 EAST TACHEVAH DRIVE
AND 1120 NORTH VIA MIRALESTE:
CHAIN OF TITLE - MAIN HOUSE CHAIN OF TITLE — GUEST HOUSE
YEAR (630 TACHEVAH) (Archives) (1120 North Via Miraleste)
1935 Ernst Ooff builder Listed as part of 630 Tachevah
193640 Alexander E. Henry, investments same
1941 Goldie Adams same
1942-45 Goldie and R.R. Adams same
1946 Philip and Mary J. Delano same
1947-48 S.E. Henderson contractor 1947: J.P. and Erna Lawler
1948-50 June Osborne
1951 Benson J. Benjamin 1951-2 Joseph H. Norman
1952-80 Bank of America for Farrell 1953 Roy Burton & I. Hoffman
1954-60 Gayle & Violet R. Thompson
(photographer)
1968-70 Salvatore & Jeannette
Buscemi
no records
1971 Nina Krie baum
1972 Ownership transfer to B of A
(and in '76 from B of A back to
Kriegbaum for some reason not noted
in the title report)
2/22/1980 Transfer title to Charles Farrell All transfers hereafter are the same
for both parcels.
2/22/1990 Transfer title to Jet-Air, Inc. ,
' Documents conflict here: One says house built in 1933, but lot not sold until '34. First recording of
ownership was on the 1935 County Assessor's Office records.
2 Note: In that the Farrells had no children, it may be logical to assume that B of A acted as their trustees
for the property. Farrell signed over title, the same day B of A transferred it to him, with the understanding
that he could occupy the house until he died. Upon Farrell's death in 1990, title was issued to Group
Starza (the successor to the now-defunct Jet-Air, Inc.)
' No records were found for this period.
Official records, grant deed, document#1980-034826
2G
Post Office Box 2743 • Palm Springs, CA 92263-2743 • Web: www.palmsprings-ca.gov
Page 9 of 18
1990 " Jet-Air owner's heirs (Group
Straza
Bequest to Desert Hospital
1994 Gerard Grence
2011 John C. and JIII A. Manl
IV. ARCHITECTURAL SIGNIFICANCE OF 630 EAST TACHEVAH DRIVE
AND 1120 NORTH VIA MIRALESTE.
This property possess many details and characteristics found in the Spanish Colonial
Revival style that was popular in the southwestern United States throughout the 1930's
and 40's. Although the architect of this home has not been determined, the home
illustrates, through its "distinctive characteristics" and high-quality materials, a structure
that was well detailed and constructed. Many such large estate style homes were built
in Palm Springs during the early period of its development as an exclusive resort for
wealthy celebrities and business moguls. Elements found throughout the house include
stucco-over-wood walls, hand-made clay tile roofs, deep set windows, metal gates,
unique chimneys and caps, the and extensive use of wrought iron metal work in the
form of railings, grills, gates, fences, and other metal ornament.
The picturesque Spanish Colonial Revival / Mexican "hacienda" feeling is seen in the
rambling lay-out, white rustic stucco arches and breezeways, and the distinctive
separation of the various parts of the house. The central courtyard (back yard) element
includes a pool area that can either be accessed through a grand main entry archway or
doors from the main rooms of the house that give generous views and visual connection
to the courtyard from many parts of the home.
The home is comprised of a main house that is connected to a "west guest wing" to the
west (not to be confused with the separate Guest House) via a grand covered arched
entry portico. Old photos indicate a pair of heavy wood doors/gates were on this
archway. The doors do not exist today and instead there are heavy iron gates. The
west guest wing was originally a garage and was converted legally in 1946 to create the
guest rooms that are there today. Although not part of the evaluation for historic
designation, the interior is comprised of a number of rather modest-sized rooms: a
living room with beamed vaulted ceiling, a library, numerous bedrooms, and at the
easternmost end a master bedroom, also with vaulted and beamed ceilings. To the
east of the master bedroom is a small walled in couartyard that contains a rose garden.
(it is said that Virginia Farrell established a rose garden in this courtyard and the present
s In a paper written by the late architectural historian Patrick McGrew, owners in the early 40's were listed
as Rexford and Lois Shea. He does no reference or source for this information is cited and this does not
coincide with the title records in the Riverside County Archivist's office.
601ficial Records, Grant Deed, document #1980-0344828; Jet-Air, Inc. produced jet engine parts, held
rpatents on golf-club heads and was owned by a George T. Straza,
Official Records, Termination of Life Estate, Document#1990-255150
s Official Records, deed of transfer, document#2011-0233530
Post Office Box 2743 • Palm Springs, CA 92263-2743 • Web: www.palmsprings-ca.gov 27
Page 10 of 18
owner has replanted a rose garden in this courtyard). On the north wall of main
building, an addition (by Albert Frey) was added with a bay window/door area opening
onto the courtyard. Pairs of wood doors with multi-paned thermally insulated glass run
along the north fagade of this addition and are clearly not original to the addition or to
the home. Building permit records denote the main building and the converted garage
were connected by a carport in 1962, which does not exist today.
This home is a particularly well maintained and intact example of the homes in the
areas now called "The Movie Colony" and "Old Las Palmas". These homes were
notable for the degree of simple, yet authentic detailing. Although built as a large
comfortable home with many bedrooms the home does not reflect an "opulence" or
"pretentiousness", but instead is rather cozy and comfortable in its scale and detailing.
Although major film stars, studio bosses, and other celebrities and wealthy individuals
often built vacation homes such as this as "backdrops" for staging parties, gatherings,
and well-heeled seasonal "getaways", this home, although large and well appointed,
reflects a casual "homey-ness".
To provide comfortable accommodation for friends and guests while still conveying a
sense of privacy for the homeowner, many of the large Palm Springs homes of the
Depression era have "guest wings" and sometimes even separate stand-alone "casitas",
in addition to accommodation for servants and staff. This home is reflective of this
pattern of construction.
Integrity of the building
According to County of Riverside historical records, the house and grounds at 630 East
Tachevah Drive were recommended for landmark status by the County's district review
and the County Historical Commission. (reference: UTM 11/542620/3744040.)
DEFINING HISTORIC CHARACTERISTICS
The Charlie Farrell House is constructed in a relatively modest "vernacular" version of
Spanish Colonial Revival. It has been extensively renovated by the current owner with
a number of new elements added that are "sympathetic" of the style, but not necessarily
authentic. What is noteworthy is that the overall scale and detailing of the house is
rather modest. Although interior features of privately-owned sites are not considered as
part of evaluation of possible historic designation; staff notes that most of the rooms in
the home are of a very modest, almost "cozy' in dimension and scale and were not
created on a grand or "opulent" scale. It appears it was created as a home to be
enjoyed by its residents and their friends and guests in small numbers. It is not a house
that, "in its day" would lend itself to large-event parties or entertaining.
The physical character-defining historic features at 630 East Tachevah Drive include the
following:
1. Half-round terra cotta clay tile roof.
Post Office Box 2743 • Palm Sptings, CA 92263-2743 • Web: www.palmsprings-ca.gov 28
Pagel 1 of 18
2. Thin, wrought iron window grills.
3. The wrought iron-enclosed "window seat" and its associated roof.
4. The "CDF" steel emblem welded into the ironwork over the main entry archway.
5. The smooth stucco exterior walls.
6. The heavy timber rafter tails and projecting eaves.
7. The clay the chimney caps.
8. The stucco molding around the windows
9. The open archway at the entry separating a guest wing (formerly the garage)
from the main house.
10.The original painted steel sash casement windows.
11.The courtyard/rose garden on the east side of the home.
Elements that appear to have been added or modified and are deemed "non-
contributing" include the following:
1. The pavers in the driveway.
2. The new garage. .
3. The heavy iron gates at the main pedestrian entry (original photos show this as a
wood gate).
4. The replacement windows and doors with insulating thermalpane glass.
5. Light fixtures in the entry archway cannot be confirmed as original
6. The courtyard fountain.
7. The wood timbered back porch (north elevation).
8. The swimming pool.
9. The half-height partitions enclosing the outdoor kitchen and grill.
10.The extensive grassy lawn.
11.Infill of several windows (west fagade).
12.The decorative antique wood brackets on the rose garden perimeter walls.
13.The pairs of wood doors with multi-paned windows across the north side of the
home.
V. PERSONS OF SIGNIFICANCE ASSOCIATED WITH THE MAIN HOUSE
(630 East Tachevah Drive).
Alexander E. Henry (1892-1979) the first owner of the home is said to have been a
"wealthy, Beverly Hills investment broker". Little more is known about him and for
purposes of this analysis he is not considered a person of significance.
S.E. Henderson (owner 1947 — 1948) is believed to have been a prominent contractor in
Palm Springs in the late 40's and 50's, his name is found as the listed contractor on
many building permits found during this period of time, however for purposes of this
analysis, he also does not rise to the level of categorizing as a person of significance.
By far, the most influential person associated with the subject site, and the one with the
longest residency was movie star, businessman and former mayor, Charles Farrell.
Post Office Box 2743 • Palm Springs, CA 92263-2743 • Web: www.palmsprings-ca.gov 29
Page 12 of 18
Farrell's "period of significance" relative to the subject site is roughly from its purchase
in 1952 until his death in 1990, however Farrell's period of significance in Palm Springs
would most likely be established from about 1930 when he has fellow actor Ralph
Bellamy and other Hollywood friends stayed at the El Mirador Hotel. It has been said
that the two avid tennis players "hogged the courts", which led to their eventual
purchase of land in 1932 on the north side of Palm Springs and development of the
Palm Springs Racquet Club. Farrell dedicated the remainder of his life to the
development and management of the Racquet Club and served as mayor of Palm
Springs twice. His period of significance therefore could be said to have been from
1930 until his death in 1990.
I
x �
CHARLIE FARRELL c.1920's.
Charles Farrell had had a substantial career in silent movies, co-starring with the first
Best Actress Oscar winner Janet Gaynor in Street Angel and 7fn Heaven . During the
period when movies transitioned from "silents" to "talkies", Farrell and fellow movie star
Ralph Bellamy visited Palm Springs often staying for a month at a time at the well-
known El Mirador Hotel.
a
f
t
Post Office Box 2743 Palm Springs, CA 92263-2743 Web: www.paimsprings-ca.gov
Page 13 of 18
In 1932-33, the two bought 53 acres of land about a mile north of the El Mirador Hotel
from builder and real estate speculator, Alvah Hicks.9. There they built what would
become the world-renowned Racquet Club. At the beginning, the Club consisted of
only two tennis courts, a perimeter fence and a three-sided sheltertwind break for
spectators and those waiting to get on a court. Over time, their venture grew, adding
more courts, a pool, bungalows, clubhouse and dining room.10
To help offset costs of building and maintaining the Racquet Club, Farrell and Bellamy
began selling increasingly more expensive memberships to their friends from
Hollywood. Early memberships were offered at a mere $50 but still few of their friends
joined. Soon, however, as they continued to incrementally increase the cost of
membership to $600 a year, they quickly sold out.
As talking movies increased in popularity, Farrell's found it increasingly difficult to land
new role, due in part to his "reedy and untrained voice". In 1931, Charlie Farrell married
Virginia Valli, of Yonkers New York, and after a few nondescript films the newlyweds
tried their luck at moviemaking in Europe (1936-38). Prospects weren't as good as they
had hoped, however, so they returned to U.S. Meanwhile, the RC continued to increase
in its popularity and success among the young movie-stars and "starlets", drawing
tennis-loving, privacy-seeking stars to the new desert hideaway. (At this time choices in
the mode of travel from Los Angeles to Palm Springs were limited to either train or a
nearly four-hour drive along an unlit, two-lane highway. Unfortunately during Farrell's
absence from the club, it had faced major personnel (and theft) problems. It was
reportedly bubbling over with paying guests eight months of the year and yet was losing
money by the truckload. 11
Bellamy, who had been running the club alone during Farrell's tenure in Europe,
admitted to being a lousy businessman, and in 1938 sold his shares to Charlie who then
hired former cowboy, future mayor and the "forever proselytizer" of Palm Springs: Frank
Bogert to manage the place. During the remainder of their life, Farrell and his wife
never strayed far from the Racquet Club, even after Charlie sold the Club in 1959. The
long-running success of the Racquet Club is credited to Charlie's continuing watchful
eye and gracious hosting, as well as Virginia's good taste in decorating. The Farrells
stayed geographically close to the Club, trying out several residences before settling in
1952 on 630 Tachevah (where, Virginia would pass away a little more than a decade
later in 1968).
Farrell was serving a second term as Mayor when they moved into the house at 630
East Tachevah. He chose not to run again when he became a surprise hit playing Gale
Storm's flustered but loving dad on My Little Margie. When the series ended, he had
his own fictionalized "A Day at the Racquet Club"-themed show. Charlie's continued
9 Burke
10 Farrell, as quoted in Niemann, pg. 133
11 Niemann, pg. 133
Post Office Box 2743 • Palm Springs, CA 92263-2743 9 Web: www.palmsprings-ca.gov 31
Page 14 of 18
association the Racquet Club and Palm Springs brought ever more attention to Palm
Springs as a glamorous getaway for well-known and well-heeled personages.
When the shows ended, Farrell devoted his full time to running the everyday business
of the Club and its guest rooms. By all accounts, it appears he was very good at it. He
slowed down after the death of his wife, to whom he was quite devoted, ultimately
fading away from the Racquet Club and becoming, in his last decade, a reclusive
resident of this house literally to the end of his life. By the 1980's the Palm Springs
Racquet Club was no longer an exclusive private club and was now open to the public.
Soon, losing its exclusive cachet, it struggled with ever less success to survive. In time,
the "old time glamour' was gone and the Racquet Club closed down in the 1990's.
It would be difficult to put a value on Charles Farrell's contribution to the worldwide
name recognition that Palm Springs enjoys today. Hollywood "found" Palm Springs - to
a great degree because of the charismatic force that Charlie Farrell brought to it with his
and Ralph Bellamy's creation of the Palm Springs Racquet Club. Seeing the famous
actor with his mane of white hair cruising around town in his Thunderbird, grinning and
waving at residents and tourists alike was a sight that those who knew him and fondly
referred to him as "Mr. Palm Springs" - would not easily forget.
1 �
r
TWO NAMES THAT IN PALM SPRINGS COULD NOT BE MORE SYNONYMOUS WITH EACH OTHER
Post Office Box 2743 • Palm Springs, CA 92263-2743 • Web: www.palmsprings-ca.gov 32
Page 15 of 18
r,
-4-1
CHARLIE FARRELL IS BURIED AT THE WELLWOOD MURRAY CEMETERY IN PALM SPRINGS
VI. HISTORIC SIGNIIFCANCE ASSOCIATED WITH THE GUEST HOUSE
1120 North Via Miraleste (HSPB-81):
The guest house (HSPB-81) is located on a separate parcel of roughly 10,019 square
feet. The architect of the guest house is unknown and the county tax records list its
date of construction as 1934.
Physical characteristics of the Guest House.
The "Guest Hose" at 1120 North Via Miraleste, although records denote it was
constructed at roughly the same time as the main house, has also had numerous
modifications over the years. The guest house is constructed with similar half round
terra cotta clay roof tiles and lightly textured stucco walls. The windows are currently a
variety of replacement windows, some vinyl clad, others aluminum. The front windows
have wrought iron grills similar to those found on the main house. A garage was
attached to the guest house at 1120 North Via Miraleste by the current owner in 2011
and it appears an addition may have been constructed on the east side of the guest
house.
From evaluation of the guest house physical characteristics that may be deemed
.'original" would be as follows:
1. The half-round terra cotta clay roof tiles.
2. The glazed decorative tile around the main front door.
3. The stucco molding around the windows.
4. The wrought iron window grills.
5. The clay tile chimney caps.
Elements that do not appear original or are "non-contributing".
Post Office Box 2743 • Palm Springs, CA 92263-2743 • Web: www.paimsprings-ca.gov 33
Page 16 of 18
1. The vinyl thermalpane windows.
2. The aluminum sliding window on the north fagade.
3. The garage.
Architecturally the guest house does not possess the same physical feeling or
"hacienda-like" characteristics as the main house. On its own, its ability to meet the
findings outlined in Palm Springs Municipal Code in furthering the purpose of the
historic preservation ordinance is much less persuasive. If the two parcels were again
merged into one parcel, it could be evaluated as an integral part of the main house site,
and by association it could be argued contributes to the estate-like quality of the main
house, but as a separate structure on its own parcel, it is architecturally not significant.
Persons associated with the Guest Hose.
From 1954 to 1960, Gayle Thomson and his wife Violet lived in the little (one bedroom,
one bath) "guest house", at 1120 North Via Miraleste. Mr. Thomson was a
photographer, whose friendship with the Farrells afforded him rare access to the stars
and celebrities who frequented the Racquet Club. This access to celebrities helped
Thomson develop a thriving photography business and he opened his studio on Palm
Canyon. Most of the stars and celebrities who frequented Palm Springs did so to get
away from the studio publicity mill; thus Thomson and a small handful of other local
photographers were particularly sensitive to their desire for privacy.
Thomson was fortunate to cover the "goings-on" at the Racquet Club and throughout
the town for the local and international media and it is said that Frank Bogert in his
capacity of manager of the Racquet Club, would often use Thomson's "Racquet Club
shots" for the Club's publicity packets.
As noted earlier, in 1947 the land on which the guest house is sited was separated from
the main house and sold. During most of the period of significance when Charlie Farrell
resided in the main house at 630 East Tachevah (1952 — 1990), the guest house was
under separate ownership and remained so until 1972 when title records show Bank of
America held title for both parcels. Today, both homes remain on separated parcels.
Although the guest house is of a similar architectural style, and Gayle Thomson did
garner some significance as a photographer, the guest house, when analyzed on its
own, is of much lesser historic significance than the main house.
As a separate structure on a very small lot, the guest house fails on its own to convey
the estate-like feel of the main house.
A "condition of approval" on a possible Class 1 designation on the main house at 630
East Tachevah Drive might be that if the parcel associated with the guest house at1120
North Via Miraleste were merged again with the parcel on which the main house is
sited, it would automatically take on and enjoy the potential Class 1 historic status of the
34
Post Office Box 2743 9 Palm Springs, CA 92263-2743 • Web: www.paimsprings-ca.gov
Page 17 of 18
main Charlie Farrell House. Such merger could be made as a condition on designation
of the main house.
VII CONCLUSION.
The main house at 630 East Tachevah Drive possess many historically significant
characteristics, both in its architecture, design and physical setting as well as
association with a person of significance: actor, mayor, and owner of the Palm Springs
Racquet Club, Charlie Farrell.
The guest house when evaluated on its own as a separate structure on a separate
parcel, lacks adequate physical characteristics to rise to the level of significance
architecturally or in its setting. Although it is associated with photographer Gayle
Thomson, Thomson does not rise to the level of a person of significance sufficient
enough to recommend historic designation.
Post Office Box 2743 • Palm Springs, CA 92263-2743 • Web: www.paimsprings-ca.gov 3
Page 18 of 18
Vill. BIBLIOGRAPHY/RESOURCES
Chain of Ownership:
• The Robert J. Fitch Archives, Jim Hofer, Archive Manager, County of Riverside
• Title Report, First American Title.
Charles Farrell in town and in the house:
• biography, Wikipedia
• Bogert, Frank M., Palm Springs: First Hundred Years. (1987, Palm Springs Heritage
Associates)
• Burke, Tony. Palm Springs: Why I Love You. (1978, Palmesa Publishers, Palm Desert)
• New York Times, May 12, 1990, "Charles Farrell, Actor, Dies at 88; Made Debut in
'Seventh Heaven' (sic)",
• Johns, Howard, Palm Springs Confidential, (2004, ISBN 1-56980-297-1), page 148
• Nieman, Greg, Palm Springs Legends (2006, ISBN-13: 978-0-932653-74-1), pages
135-6
• Rippingale, Sally Presley. The History of the Racquet Club of Palm Springs. 1985,
U.S. Business Specialties. Conrad, Tracy, Desert Magazine, October 2013, pages 13-15
• McGrew, Patrick "Charles Farrell Home(s) in Palm Springs paper for HSPB, April 23,
2012
Re: George Straza
• Los Angeles Times, April 29, 1987 "Former Jet Air Owner Indicted in Fraud Case", Jim
Schachter
• Los Angeles Times, October 27, 1987, "Straza Given Prison, Fine for Jet Fraud", Jenifer
Warren
Changes to building
• Permits courtesy of Palm Springs Building Department archives
• Resource card, #15.117-05.05/507-092008-7, courtesy Palm Springs Planning
Department
• City Directories, 1944-56 courtesy of Palm Springs Historical Society
• Photos in the appendix of property in its current state were taken on 19 February 2014
by Jana Ploss and edited by Roxann Ploss.
Other References:
• Charlie Farrell Homes in Palm Springs by Patrick McGrew
• 1963-64 Palm Springs Life Article on Charlie Farrell
• Reference notes and Summary of Charlie Farrell edited by Craig Ewing, AICP, from
"Lucky Stars" by Sarah Baker and "Charles Farrell and Palm Springs from "When the
Smoke Hit the Fan" by Ralph Bellamy
• Facts about the Life of Charles Farrell 1900-1990 summarized by Craig Ewing, AICP
36
Post Office Sox 2743 • Palm Springs, CA 92263-2743 • Web: www.palrnsprings-ca.gov
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Facts about the Life of Charles Farrell — 1900 to 1990
Charles Farrell Date of Birth (Walpole, MA) 08-09-1900
"Old Ironsides" Released (Silent) 12-26-1926
"Seventh Heaven" Released (Silent) 06-04-1928
CF Visits Palm Springs for Voice Lessons (?) 1929
"Lucky Star' Released (Silent and Talking Versions) 08-18-1929
CF Marries Virginia Valli (Yonkers, NY) 02-14-1931
CF #1 Male Box Office Star in US 1932
CF and Ralph Bellamy Purchased 53 acres from Alva Hicks 1932
CF Sells Toluca Lake House to Bette Davis? 1932
Two Tennis Courts and Visitors Gallery Completed 12-25-1933
CF Charter Member of Polo Club? 1934
Two Additional Courts, Swimming Pool and Restrooms Completed 06-xx-1934
Grand Opening of The Racquet Club 12-15-1934
CF Loses Malibu Beach Home in Wildfire 10-23-1935
CF Makes movies in Australia and England 1936 to 1937
CF Buys Out Ralph Bellamy Interest in The Racquet Club 1937
"The Deadly Game" Released (CF's last film) 08-08-1941
CF Enlists in US Navy 06-xx-1942
CF Assigned to Aircraft Carrier USS Hornet 04-19-1944
CF Honorably Discharged from US Navy 11-xx-1945
CF Elected to City Council 04-16-1946
Appointed Mayor 04-20-1948
"Operation Jaguar" Government Take-over Exercise (LA Times) 09-30-1950
CF Recreated "Seventh Heaven" with Janet Gaynor on Lux Radio 04-xx-1952
"My Little Margie" Premiers (on CBS) 06-16-1952
CF Resigned as Mayor 07-31-1953
"My Little Margie" Ends Run (on NBC) Total 126 Episodes 08-24-1955
"The Charles Farrell Show" Premiers (on CBS) Total 12 Episodes 07-02-1956
The Racquet Club Sold by CF to Morton / Murchison 1959
CF Inducted into Hollywood Walk of Fame (2 stars — Movies, TV) 02-08-1960
The Racquet Club Sold to Alexander Family 1965
David Farrell Died (Father) 11-xx-1965
Virginia Farrell Suffered Stroke Spring 1966
Virginia Farrell Died (Wife) 09-24-1968
CF Misses Annual Grand Opening of The Racquet Club (1 st Time) 1975
The Racquet Club Sold to Hotel Coronado 1977
CF Died 05-06-1990
CF Palm Springs Star Dedicated (Among First Five) 02-26-1992
CF Memorial Dedicated at Palm Springs Airport 12-03-1999
39
Other events without dates
Joins Palm Springs Polo Club
Meets Frank Bogert
Authorizes lighting of Palm Trees
Approves Transfer of Airport from US Military
Supports Boys Club Drive (1966?)
Support Creation of TV Channel 36 (w/John Conte?)
40
Charles Farrell—
Born: August 9, 1900 in Onset Bay, MA, USA
Died: May 6, 1990 in Palm Springs, CA, USA
By Sarah Baker
The man who became matinee idol to millions was born on August 9, 1900 in
his neighbors' bedroom. His mother, Estelle Farrell, demanded the only
heated room in the Fuller Tavern Annex when she went into labor. And so,
she was given her neighbors' apartment to bring little Charles David Farrell
into the world.
Charlie's family were working-class Irish immigrants, but using their own
innate intelligence and drive, made a mark for themselves in Walpole, MA
and later Onset Bay, MA. The Farrell family owned a restaurant and a
newspaper stand, and later branched out into the theatre business. Charlie was
given jobs in all the family businesses, but he preferred to set up films and
sweep up rubbish in the theatre. As a boy, he began dreaming about
becoming a film star, as he later recalled:
Even in those surroundings, I knew I was going to be a great motion picture
actor. I never sold a ticket to the theater but what I looked the customer in the
eye and said to myself, "Some day that person will be going to the theater to
see Charlie Farrell."
His father David had other plans, though, and pushed Charlie to Boston
University in the hopes Charlie would become a dentist. Charlie
compromised by working towards a business degree. Just before his senior
year, however, Charlie abruptly dropped out of school to become a valet to
Little Billy, a famous vaudeville midget. It wasn't Charlie's ideal gig, but it
provided the means to get to Hollywood.
Charlie landed a few bit parts in 1923-1924, but his was a pretty lean
existence. He finally signed with Fox Films in 1925 and was promptly loaned
to Paramount for the historical epic film, Old Ironsides (1926). His
performance as the naive "Commodore" was exceptional, and marked the
birth of the Charles Farrell brand of hero: athletic and brawny but at the same
4 1.
time, naive and tender. Fox hastened to put Charlie baccfto work before he
was poached by Paramount for good, and assigned him to their most
prestigious project, 7th Heaven (1927). This film marked the beginning of
two partnerships: his long-term collaboration with director Frank Borzage,
and his long-term romantic partnership with Janet Gaynor.
In 1929, when sound finally took over the motion picture industry, Charlie
and his co-star Janet passed the "mic test" with flying colors. But one crucial
element changed. Both Charlie and Janet were expected to be singing,
talking, dancing musical stars, and they were cast in silly comedies. This
was a dramatic departure from their work in silent films, where their parts
were poetic, dramatic, and tailor-made to their talents. 1929 marked the death
of the Charles Farrell brand of hero, as well. The new matinee idols were
brash, hard-hitting, and macho: think Clark Gable or Jimmy Cagney. There
was no longer any demand for a hero who was both virile and tender.
Amazingly, Charlie's popularity never faltered, not with the advent of sound;
nor with Janet Gaynor's infamous strike of 1930; nor with the new vogue of
he-man matinee idols. His career at Fox ended abruptly in 1932 when he
refused a single role in the film The Face in the Sky. After his departure
from Fox, Charlie had a successful freelance career and was lured back to
Fox a year later for a two-picture deal with Janet Gaynor. However, after
making one last film with Janet (Change of Heart, 1934), Charlie terminated
his contract with Fox. His reasons were personal: he had a terrible fight
with his wife, Virginia Valli Farrell, who had discovered one of Charlie's
extramarital affairs. He went to London and Fox bought Charlie's contract
out. He worked as a freelancer in several British films and performed in
summer stock. Eventually he made a few more American films, but when
WWII broke out, he abandoned his film career and enlisted in the Navy.
Charlie served as the Personnel and Administrative Officer aboard the USS
Hornet, under the command of Lt. Commander Marshall Beebe. The Hornet
saw heavy combat in the spring and summer of 1944; indeed, when Charlie
returned home in 1945, his hair had turned grey. The men of Task Force 58,
which included the crew of the Hornet, received a Presidential Unit Citation
by President Harry Truman for extraordinary heroism.
Charlie returned to his beloved desert home, Palm Springs, where he had
created the Palm Springs Racquet Club in the 1930s. Virginia Valli Farrell,
42
long reconciled with Ch lie, had nurtured the Club in pis absence and by the
1950s it became the "playground of the stars." Further cementing his status
as "Mr. Palm Springs," Charlie was elected Mayor of Palm Springs, and
served for six years.
The 1950s also saw Charlie's return to acting: as a lark he accepted the role
of Vern Albright on a television show called My Little Margie. It was
supposed to be a mere summer replacement for I Love Lucy, but became a
runaway hit. His co-star, Gale Storm, remembered Charlie as "the single
most considerate man I have ever known in my life...he had no vanity at all."
When Margie ended in 1956, Charlie had his own show, The Charles Farrell
Show, a fictionalized account of life at the Racquet Club. The show ran for
two years.
Charlie sold the Racquet Club in 1959 for a hefty profit; but it was a business
move that tipped off a depression that lasted the rest of Charlie's life. Over
the years he became more and more reclusive, making public appearances
only if Janet Gaynor was at his side. When Janet died in 1984, Charlie's
seclusion was complete; he never granted any interviews or made any public
appearances after her death.
Charlie was unfailingly modest and unlike Janet, never fought to maintain his
place in film history. He refused to even defend his place in Palm Springs
history, though it could be argued that his Racquet Club "founded" Palm
Springs as a resort community. When Charlie died in 1990, he was buried in
the local Welwood Murray Cemetery next to Virginia Valli Farrell.
Following his dying wish, his caretakers buried him, and then alerted the
press to his passing over a week later.
Charlie died believing he was alone and forgotten. He was certain that his
work lost its relevance over time, but he was wrong. Time and time again,
audiences are seduced by the magic of his onscreen partnership with Janet
Gaynor and of the power and grace of the Charles Farrell brand of hero.
Written by Sarah Baker
If you want to know more about Charles Farrell and/or Janet Gaynor check
out Sarah Baker's new
book "Lucky Stars."
43
12_f4- _OLce_ rva�Es f�)y
Charles Farrell and Palm Springs from "Lucky Stars" by Sarah Baker
CF and Janet Gaynor sent to Palm Springs in springs 1929 for voice training —
conversion of "Lucky Star" from silent to sound film — Fox Studios. Farrell may have
proposed to Gaynor in Palm Springs, but she did not accept. (page 100)
Frank Bogert was CF's best from from their first meeting in the late 1920's (p. 125)
CF marries long-time flame Virginia Valli in February 1931 (p. 136)
Early 1930's (1933?) CF spending time with Ralph Bellamy in Palm Springs playing
tennis. First, at El Mirador where Marlene Dietrich complained about their overuse by
CF and RB. Then they built two courts and a shelter house on 53 acres they owned in
PS. First, charged others 50¢ to use courts, then decided to create a tennis club.
(p. 164-165)
CF also played polo, becoming charter member of PS Polo Club. Met Frank Bogert and
became good friends. (p. 166)
Palm Springs Racquet Club had its grand opening Christmas Day 1934; by the end of
1936 they had to close the membership list to new applicants. (p. 191)
During 1935-36, CF and RB added four courts (to the original two) and a swimming
pool, and a bar which was enlarged to a dining room. Initial offering made to 170
friends and acquaintances, with initial member ship at $75 / single and $100 /family.
After first deadline, they had 30 members; as membership costs increased, more joined
the club. PS Racquet Club covered five acres, include above facilities plus a clubhouse
and two locker and shower rooms. (p. 190-191)
After a stint in England, CF returned in the fall of 1937 to Palm Springs and a Racquet
Club faltering under the management of RB. To improve day-to-day operations, CF
hired Frank Bogert the Club's General Manager. CF bought out RB's shares and took
renewed interest in the Club. Bamboo Room designed by director Mitchell Leisen. Wife
Virginia oversaw other interior decorations. CF was expert short-order cook with special
interest in restaurant's cuisine. (p. 204-205)
New bartender, Tex Greggson, invented Bloody Mary (originally, "Farrell's Flip") to cure
CF's hangovers. Members of Racquet Club included: Clark Gable, Carole Lombard,
William Powell, Rudy Vallee, Douglas Fairbanks, Jr., Mary Pickford, Buddy Rogers,
Bing Crosby, Bob Hope, Robert Taylor, Busby Berkeley, Errol Flynn and Frank Capra.
CF was Club's host.
In the late 1930's and early 1940's CF's movie career wound down — one last movie for
his long-time studio Fox in 1939 and the last movie of his career in 1941 (Monogram
Pictures) (pp 209-201, 220)
CF found happiness in running the Racquet Club, which he managed better than his
film career (p. 214)
44
Charles Farrell and Palm Springs from "Lucky Stars' by Sarah Baker Page 2
By 1941, Palm Springs was the Hollywood hang-out that everyone knew, and CF was at
the center, including hosting at the RC, playing in weekly polo matches, and acting as
associate editor/ columnist of a local newspaper.
In 1942, CF enlisted in the US Navy, serving at the Alameda Naval Air Station until
assigned to Fighting Squadron 17 on board the USS Hornet in April 1944 where he saw
action in the Pacific Theater around Iwo Jima and Okinawa. The Hornet's air groups
were also responsible for sinking Japan's most powerful battleship, Yamato. He was
honorably discharged in November 1945 as Lt. Commander(p. 221-226).
His wife, Virginia, successfully ran the RC during the war, and CF returned to reclaim
his role as the Club's ringmaster. The RC hosted some of Jack Benny's radio shows,
with CF as occasional guest (p. 227-228).
In 1945, he ran unopposed for District 6 of the Palm Springs City Council, and was
elected mayor in 1947, serving until 1955, when he resigned to spend more time on the
My Little Margie television and radio productions. He petitioned the CAB (now, FAA) for
better airline feeder service, initiated the planting of palm trees on Palm Canyon Drive
(pp 227-228, 232).
The Charles Farrell Show ran for two years in the late 1950's, showcasing the Racquet
Club and CF, with other Hollywood stars as occasional guests, but CF sold the RC in
1959 for a profit of over a million dollars and he retired from day-to-day operations (p.
232). The RC was never the same afterwards (pp 232, 242)
Into early 1960's, the Palm Springs social season didn't officially begin until the
ceremonial bell was rung at the RC each fall (p. 243).
CF began affair with Mousie Powell (wife of actor William Powell) in late 1950's, while
still married (p. 243-246). CF joined Alcholics Anonymous about the same time.
After the war, CF and Virginia moved out of the Farrell House at the Club and built a
home at the corner of Via Miraleste and Tachevah. He installed a traffic signal at the
corner so he could find his way home while drunk (p. 247).
He lost important family members in the 1960's: His father David in 1965, his sister
Ruth in 1966 and his wife Virginia in 1968, two years after she suffered a debilitating
stroke. When his Racquet Club contract ended, he withdrew to his house and returned
to drinking (p. 248)
He made a few benefit screen appearances in the 1970's with Janet Gaynor, who died
September 14, 1984. In the 1980's, CF closed out all friends, including Mousie Powell
and Frank Bogert (p 252-258)
CF died May 6, 1990 of a heart attack and is interred at Welwood Murray Cemetery (p.
256)
45
riffs
Charles Farrell and Palm Springs from "When the Smoke Hit the Fan" by Ralph Bellamy
RB met CF in early days at Fox, and renewed acquaintance in 1933 — both loved the
desert and rented houses. RB and CF were tennis players and played most every day
at the El Mirador Hotel. (p. 173)
RB and CF were horseback riding and saw 53 acres for sale by Alva Hicks. They
bought the land for $3500. After they were kicked off the El Mirador courts, RB and CF
decided to build courts on their desert land, hiring the Davis Company from Los
Angeles. Sand was brought in from San Pedro to make the court's concrete; two courts
were built, as was a nine foot fence (with four additional feet of construction wire) and a
three sided shelter. (p. 174-75)
Later that year (1933) utilities were brought in; a toilet and drinking fountain were added,
the shelter was enclosed, and a swimming pool with showers and locker rooms were
built. Total cost $78,000. (p. 175)
In summer of 1934, RB wanted to recover some of the costs and he and CF decided to
create a club. Two more courts were built and trees were planted as windbreaks. The
Racquet Club was formed and 173 friends were mailed invitations: Single membership
was $50; family membership was $75; plus $9 per month from September to March.
Opening date was September 15, 1934. (p. 175-76)
No one responded to the invitations. A second invitation notified that by October 15,
1934, the dues would increase from $50 to 75 (single) and from $75 to 100 (family).
Four members joined: Frank Morgan, Charles Butterworth, Reginald Owen and Paul
Lukas. (p. 176)
The fee went up $25 each month. At $650 per membership (Sept. 1935?), there was a
waiting list. A bar was added, made of bamboo and designed by Mitchell Leisen — a
director from Paramount. A dining room, dance floor and kitchen were built. (p. 176)
A clock was placed over the bar paid by Louella Parsons' passing the hat that raised
$400. (p. 177)
A circus tent was placed over the number one court on Saturdays, and a portable dance
floor, bars were placed for weekly dances during the season. Rudy Vallee's orchestra
performed regularly, and wait staff was brought from L.A. (p. 177)
All equipment (tents, dance floors, kitchen equipment, etc.) came used from United Tent
and Awning Company, owned by Bearl Murphy, who set up extravagant parties for the
moguls and swells of Hollywood. (p. 177)
Tennis pros at the club included Keith Gledhill, Alice Marble, Eleanor Tennant and
Lester Stoefen. (p. 177)
CF left the country for two years to make films in England and Australia when club was
at its peak; the club membership was full and there was full-time staff. (p. 177) 46
Charles Farrell and Palm Springs from "Lucky Stars' by Sarah Baker Page 2
When CF returned, RB asked to be let out of his original investment. RB was not a
good club manager, but CF was made for it, both as a manager and a greeter. (p. 178
CF and RB like to think that Palm Springs as it is today (1979) began with a horseback
ride that let to a $3500 investment in 53 acres. (p. 178)
47
�pvejtL, 1 NFU P&7p4t+-
CHARLES FARRELL HOME(S) IN PALM SPRINGS
Born in Walpole, Massachusetts, Charles Farrell (1901-1990) began his career in Hollywood as a bit player for
Paramount Pictures. Farrell did extra work for films ranging from The Hunchback of Notre Dame with Lon
Chaney, Sr., Cecil B. De Mille's The Ten Commandments, and The Cheat with Polo Negri. Farrell continued to
work throughout the next few years in relatively minor roles without much success until he was signed by Fox
Studios and was paired with fellow newcomer Janet Gaynor in the romantic drama Seventh Heaven. The first
Oscar for Best Actress in 1928 went to Gaynor. The film was a public and critical success and Farrell and
Gaynor would go on to star opposite one another in more than a dozen films throughout the late 1920s and
into the talkie era of the early 1930s. Farrell married former actress Virginia Valli (1898-1968) on February 14,
1931, and the couple was married until her death.
After the opening of the El Mirador Hotel in 1927, Farrell took up residency there for several months and the
gravitational pull of his tennis-playing celebrity friends was strong. Frequent visitors included Ralph Bellamy and
many others whose common denominator was they all played good tennis and they frequently monopolized the
El Mirador court. It became obvious that additional facilities for the game must be acquired, if not at the hotel
then elsewhere. Farrell and Bellamy acquired 52 acres from Alvah Hicks located on North Indian Avenue about
a mile north of El Mirador where they formed a small club for tennis buffs and named it "The Racquet Club." It
consisted of only two courts surrounded by a board fence with a small building that contained lavatory facilities
and dressing rooms. Much of the surrounding land was subdivided into small lots on which members could
build private cottages. In time it attracted members from all over the globe and became known the world over,
Farrell's career at Fox ended abruptly in 1932 when he refused a single role in the film The Face in the Sky. He
terminated his contract with Fox, and having problems in his recent marriage, moved to London where he
continued to make films from 1935 to 1937. His career in the UK failed to materialize, and after making a few
"B" pictures he returned to the US. Given the problems with his faltering career, in 1937 he chose a different
path and moved to Palm Springs becoming a full time resident.
Farrell's first listed address in Palm Springs according to the 1937 City Directory was at 362 West Chino Drive-'
But, with the initial success of the Racquet Club, Farrell was able to embark upon a building program that by
1938 included the extant Club House with its famous "Bamboo Lounge" and a home that the Farrells owned
and occupied as the Club managers. The Club address was 2143 (later renumbered to) 2743 North Indian.
The name of the architect of the Racquet Club buildings has been lost to time, although, given Farrell's LA
connections, it was most likely not designed locally. The Racquet Club building itself reflected a rustic Anglo-
Colonial style with white-washed board-and-batten siding, and shingled hipped roofs, topped with cupolas and
weathervanes. The Farrell residence was similar, although it featured painted cement plaster walls and an
interior courtyard. Virginia Valli Farrell, long reconciled with Charlie, nurtured the Club while Charlie pursued a
modest film career in LA and by the 1950s the racquet Club had became the "playground of the stars." The
club's success cemented Farrell's status as "Mr. Palm Springs," and in 1948 he ran for public office and was
elected Mayor of Palm Springs, a position he held for six years from 1948 to 1953, while still acting and
managing the Racquet Club. The Farrells lived in the Racquet Club residence until 1951, when it appears they
moved briefly into to the Grace Miller Lewis residence at 2311 North Indian for a year. In 1952 the Farrells
purchased and moved into the Charles Ellwood Henry home at Tachevah at Via Miraleste.
The Henry Residence and guest house were built in 1934 in the El Mirador Estates tract for Alexander Henry
(1892-1979), a wealthy Beverly Hills investment broker. His parents Thomas B. and Jesse L. Henry immigrated
to Los Angeles from Canada in 1886. The property contained a main house at 630 East Tachevah and a guest
house at 1120 Via Miraleste. Later owners included Rexford P. and Lois Shea in the Main House and John P.
and Edna Lawler in the Guest House in the 1940s. After their purchase of the home in 1952, the Farrells
moved into the main house on Tachevah. The Farrells commissioned an addition by Clark & Frey; and a
wrought iron arch above the entry bears Farrell's initials. Soon thereafter, the guest house was occupied by
t The Riverside County Assessors office indicates that the current residence of that address was built in 2000,so this is not the building in
which the Farrells lived.
48
photographer Gail B. Thompson and his family. The relationship between the families was very cordial, and
Thompson assumed the role of official photographer, endlessly documenting Farrell's numerous public
appearances.
In 1952, about the some time as the Farrells moved into the Henry Residence, Farrell also moved into television.
He accepted the role of the male lead on a television show called My Little Margie. A summer replacement for 1
Love Lucy, it became a runaway hit. During the course of his television career Farrell commuted from Palm
Springs to LA via private car and driver. When Margie ended in 1956, Charlie was offered his own show, The
Charles Farrell Show, a fictionalized account of life at the Racquet Club that ran for a year.
Charlie sold the Racquet Club in 1959 for a substantial profit; but it was a business decision that triggered a
profound depression that lasted the rest of Charlie's life. Over the years he became more and more reclusive,
Charlie died believing he was alone and forgotten. He was certain that his work lost its relevance over
time. Today, Farrell's Racquet Club along with its famous Bamboo Lounge where the Bloody Mary was
conceived along with four inscribed bar stools reserved for Clark Gable, William Powell, Spencer Tracy and of
course Charles Farrell has survived, but is currently vacant. Farrell has a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame
for his contributions to television and is also honored with a star on the Palm Springs Walk of Fame on the west
side of Palm Canyon Drive between Tahquitz and Arenas. Palm Springs has a history of naming city streets after
popular odors. The tradition started with Charles Farrell. Farrell Drive which runs through a residential area of
the city originated as the roadbed of a narrow gouge railway which was original built to serve the early
agricultural development called Palm Valley.
Although one of the HSPB Work programs lists the residence at 177 Santa Catalina Road, there is no other
record to indicate that the Farrells ever lived at this address, as well as substantial evidence to the contrary. That
house was built in 1936 for Mrs. Theodore Arthur (Florence V.) Willard of Beverly Hills who continued to reside
there until at least 1953. Arthur Theodore Willard (1862-1943) was an engraver for the Northwestern Miller in
1882. However, at about the same time he started experimenting with battery cells. In 1886 he went to
Cleveland, Ohio, where he lived with his uncle Archibald M. Willard (an artist who painted the famous "Spirit of
'76" portrait) and in the 1890s began the Willard Electric Battery Company, which later became the Willard
Storage Battery Company. Shortly after he left Minneapolis, Willard changed his name to T. A. Willard. Willard
was also interested in the pre-Colombian art of Central America and wrote and researched extensively on the
Mayan civilization. Possibly of minor historic significance for its distant association with Willard, the home has
been extensively altered and is no longer capable of reflecting the period of occupancy by the Willards.
49
2on� 11)&3-4 AiMctt c JJ Ste,Iv6s L4 Ff,
Kanemana, Palm Spring,
at his side, Put" (.7rrM-
spent /wr hour a day'
radio station WIND expanding ilA Att good life found in Nis ify rites w i
It
in of the new Polm Spring,
`nd.
Tramway, and spinnia t
B es about the
-..a famous residents and visitor who an.
nually mushomn the tity"s populuism
from "I'M permanent revam, ro
nearly InD.Wit,
During his Chingo ales ' Farrell D
�r rM04 a "Charlie- at the Esquire rc 4. .f to where a special screening of - t
enth Heaven"was held for 2,nnD thea.
.... 4T goer.
The 'Chador wall presented 6y Chi-
"Re", leading journalist ,said txde,,onaaa
t`Dmmrntatan, Irving Kapciner. Be
Auwq" Farrell smikd Ater his rtrnm.
he said he remsniberesl me r"a, theses
ill the faaapie who w<n 0,,,s inr
s 'Seventh Heaven', le said i had prop.
•�' ANY been walking around with an
y, Academy Award atreptance spMfi far
11 years - and it was time I tired it"
Actually, there was soave truth in
Kupcinet s words.
a Although Farrell had never expected
ttl win an 0—,r that year.he is the tint
to admit he was practically the only
person connat+:d with Seventh Hcav
en" who didri r win mse.
Initial awards presented by the Acad•
emy of Molina Picture Art and Seictwes
were presented to Janet Gaynor fur her
performance in the film, to Frank Jaen-
zage for his dim'titm of 'Seventh
- Heaven", to Benjamin Giaacr for writ•
f �'�[ �ff"1 ing the screen adoption, and [o desert
i F r� IIIY. I I IIN LL resident Harry OBiver who was the
�l'L. ..IIFFLLJJ movie's set designer.
Mr. Pnlut Spring., "Acrually;' [carrell says or his early
-ayes in films, "tnicess turtle too scan
ioux_rvnu,r; y-riUn g about the ex yr n'u'. I hadn't had the aamg cxped-
k ticketed the dub y e It land h.to sk tlusirr and world famous Rac tier t ante to g,a with (he scat s[aNs L sndden-
q rmketctl Iron thirty dollars an a.rc to. ly acquired, I think it's nor of the
Club and its founder, Charles Farrell, eight thousand, And errant} tin story real+soot that lalkltlg Fir-Butts trightcrscd
nnm raid: is earl Mrhed -.
7o many it it Palm t.rins y - :md will afwayx Lc -.�-
'Chat Balm S. l b in the hearts of those familiar wit],l cilu urould he aidiout du history of Palm Spnnps. Over
!'arrcll is bated ntling. "Oda), at tile not aids tile,r,i.ro
76t' saga eJ Chance Da, tl
-id Rarreli, io rage of ll, Farrdl -- where he t _
ic jmvenife Chive of Sc enth }Ieay.
Four star, tdwisrcn actor and former en" -. is cuuidrrrd the beat mpthc rc on the %J, I
Mayor of palm sl rings, is ir-seribttl in lahons exconrnt sat this 1 later ran his
tscry cu,,lypl, tree and &ari that ' s city, the man from tht Ili who helped pdi it on the ma :md
iwtdtn the rxt,a,irr Ratgnet Ciubi on P nt.aic u�, I ,i u;make it a favorable hideaway And home besot. fch t
nc� tenors tours where tin any ride one for internationally k,n a w❑micht find a Ioarsornc consisthig of from all w t fdchrit ins during his catty r:
IYucdt Short, Paul f.mi" Janes Leighalto of 'life.
Leigh " tnrj Testimony to thin ix an invitation hr hwli ter(ir "I't e,
At),! hnak.n,,tile
Atluricy iicneral Stan, retenely alter�mtcd ir. C.hitaga, Illinois err l
Icy tilusk; in the mind sw., 9.)after Janet t a,
r [I t drier our' For one wevk, Farrell, with Au,u,i he ea-starred in t 2
h tnth Ilctsrn"' n"ludusr -
50
�wqs Fffr r
t M Wn Whu Came Rark") re.
i.
that he cone hem to find
mrc for Ius hay fcstic
9 yet hest t hated it", he sags hunesb
„I been gang to Arrowhead
Ir y for my health and preferred it
9 1 the desert grew on nr_._u
w many When—and I Irerned
le love palm Sptings.'
{ r
Ills first <antict with the local eiti.
ymc when, at Janct Gaynon's
agaeyy}nn ire linked op maltor Harold
IW-ks knd eked young Hw6s (wh,, ,
Kit In, oat of college) to show him .mkt ass
Ownd the desert and find him a
p%1 '�hoax,.,
The V,ks' are a pienecr desert
{ynrdg. Alvah Hir'ks, Harold', father Who A„ At-
-4-
m Pnhn Springs to the earl) rr+a a ter n! !.
;uuat' 1'. creel 't'1! -
l9; sand put ka rd'.her the Mon"< torso t mo r P,/r« Sp- r ,1 r e Y ! 4. O .k.
r company j DrRow,r r.d+ut o}Lorb A t S tkr t.btaxan o,+d a e dLnKAi. o.,�
ripUt yobu rFir(of 6tb 5 p'om'and C,FReae'
Whee I lust Am, hue` Farrell P.mga
tce'gel "thcrtwas a growl of us front I (�
fd" who tuequented the ,Inert —
',yptiedmg two of our sA c At the Des,
td Inn to El Meador—u hen we:coutd .r.'
-+�it,
3n Shn,
will, p WAS Virginia Valli, an '
w)dt wtmm F:vreil fall oa love,
`"!tip were married on Valvnme's Day,
Atrh"agh celebrities Roars, tE iHa j..
Peal 1 ;l% Ralph Betiams, W';tri}er fp
Naas inrry Ibnda and Gilbert Rn _
r at an ideal place in which
tMweon pictor, there was t
a'a 7 so.iat lire- .tr it:e time rn
Pain
TYc ..tilt' restaurua
;the W3 PicmSG owned I
s kq or the oiber 'id, t tow a,
s arMh :two hotels wetc .hc Dc+ett
It 1pd L' Miradhr," he txrnlled.
AUn ,W "t lik WAS eraigOelling
',� 'tp'g'playcrs:enjoyed hone- d, ,
Irai4fi`en the Palm Springs Polo
(kcm 3'pymYrd Ta7iCB was a char--
!!A �Iub wa% €ntmed, to �lil
tficy&OLTr.
OA
' etllated in�', 'N`.= .n a�tll re —Sm`d±o Ill an Wily F'olot
wrre larrell ant( lydnk *ur1 tt; is`JT,.
*L0 it Oryw M').,,r of Palm S_A"198. '
'As[tdt tennis, ;A jtr" a« played tt e i
tie h) 'Mmdut; I'arrcll tour„wed
\t
At dim(lie tours)xcautr so ctrxwtic.t
three waaxdt tool" 1 o n+
fus'!l9tc than ors) othuf L"t"r wa+ yr
�t w w:wt t
d
51
... . . "sit) Oprings
real estate."
}
j({
�r
a �Ys
M t
e.
T ✓
r
Mr. and Mrs. Charles Farrell (the
52
Palm apringr life
FARREu C,+xtroAre
«nponsible ""the birth of the Racquet
Club' LOCATED IN PillSERT,�
By 'hit time, rarrelf owned a small CAUPOkhIA
hwue in Palm Springs He and ho
_ e close friend, actor Ralph Tkliatny, had �� 1
invested G,000 dollars in 200 acres of
raw desert in what was considered the
windy part of Palm Springs.
"At first 1 wasot going to buy to MOTOR LODGE rAV PRIVILEGES
land," carrell admits. "but When I told COOLER R EEEFlGEEA
ATM
Ilell'dlFly that the land was aV,ld9]>(p Al THE GOLF CAPITOL OI IHE WOEID aLrMIIc NEATEn SWIf
RECREATION EAUIIIII
30 dollars an acre and wasn't under wGNwnastwtriure oes rN FREE FREE AI*WAS„water. he Said, 'Why tbc.hell don't ynn AE
FREE CONTINENTAL BE
buy it?.Atod W we found ourseleos true Chit STAMPS
knIx deep it, cacbls and Pnbn Sprtn.ts
real estate."
r
e
Mayfl
a�fiow `
h r
""R+-•� America's Marc Recommenried Moa
ARM SPRINGS TwNsrn I S'T,
507 Sunny Dunes Road - palm Spri
For�free estimate call: 325-5203
Visit Our Lovely Display Homes
3 ;la"
I `%d
A .nr,l A( , r1,m?.e,Farreff Roe ti r.E.,r`.
Rarqurr OrE. AN Fa melt dndl ELe Come (.
iub iu 79sJ r at7 Rufph R JL.rey
I oday barrc4l dainu that fie ,urd
bcllamy had no idea of what Ihcy would
do with rile two hundred
ccpt)lope that desert fand s dues would j
Jto tyr rather Ihaa down.
[cut "Pony fiurke, a pnmccr desert
mirror and fornxr correspondent wit yy'� pp CANYON tvO L'N17iY
llwe Lpttdon U.ulr .lfail, remembers it � LLc3O
anon"way. ava in:w
FAA, the HEART if PAL c
"WV heard that Farrell and E4'llang.
Plnad Xt ?Hold a tc m vea Ilab anh te
ptrrlaertp, We cyuldrit understand wly
theywould build out that w tcho
wind. want fo p(ay in that datnnal"e
wind."
Actually, Ili, Ra<yuct Club - iikc
Follow flee Fnnnlain Cth Canino Real to the Plrtra
53
.. SapamGr, +nr,{
pet
tla nc, tkecher Suawds story lawk
r, r e., h a � " fi" w ^j ✓IYuwed„
r s t � nGSN t rule Gva — use
1, wasn't planned at All,, pxenil
aay8.
We had this land and didn't know
what to do with it. to tlx re unn" t
group of as train the picture buninpsr
11•utl LUCA$, Charlie Butterworth
Warner Baiter, Cool Lrxnbard,Gdb;rf
Roland, jack Warner, Ginger Rogers i
.ft and Mervyn LeRoy -- sf.rrnt time hue
whto we weren't working. W
r , 8 e aJl <o-
Igy$d terms m-d were constantly oe
the I,u&. out for a place to play.
"Ch, hl Moed„r would let t as as is r
f gee court--rf we didn'tin#{tfcre welt '
the pal Ong Sue*." ,{
After deciding betwcea cnnumctan
fof a court in rAtTell or Bellamy',imet
c .: yard —the two anon derided to build
r r I—, ley" ok af d"1)"t, ur"
on some of their acrtage.
n.a,r n r rh.a.q r Lab[n rb< rr f tsn`,- 'We hired the best tennis court con.
tractar we could find;' Farrell says
The courts were ready on Chrism,
' n., a rr h rk.r t,r<'harlk Day, 1933, and Farrell and 13dlaaty
i 7^ F tt t nt h! r h' ', .ns"aa charged their friends oae dollar for
Lite List, of the courts.
-±ere,t e ar,1.4 0 1, m:
"That was for luttin g a ball Of
i.
playing ill day,' Farrc-31 clsurfJed.
On that first Jay, he and Bel suir
t r made ughtcen d.ldars, �.
s "f In Gcu tl. i.m.-led for rwrntsgrew .:
r ld .rciudutg the con.
f.wilitxc3, antra .;
.. ats4its :na
ra u / iu-,tar AI 'i
l
ui ,n .4 flit L
l / / 1 3 i a: l k p).,t
an,ra lag]7;�a ,tr,,. and hoe 1 ush.cnd
t '" ! / a " •, Of Deep VC'cIl Ii.:n.
Raccluet Club w,is ba.:. _
AM r ,3 Farrell ranc,nber. '.I -
t
Turd. t !u if..r.,,,..., y�l sitting in the
build one of par te,l.
E
hdeiha c,vme hy week
s � 9
1 said, Dledbs ar.r .
thing abuu -
__ but 1 don't knov; a,,,,
" .. 9rta it rwilt u h u , .-
- hha said m I we ( i
1�ip'1T 9t -� try the a lsclLuny h ., „I ' �,
r .aj'a ' u` turn to Neu lark an{ h,
-bed haired hruoai ihat he .,,,1 nip v
l',e leis,
g Ne[c edit, .,.I o ,.
was to I,ccomr
f # 'e ..trngur.,ll}' arc- ,iy uy,, 1 Lllr ....��`
ti a, t I'er nunibc rshi tbcn r.a . in,t
d . r , tioali 1
#1 F a r c,u hund,cJ. L< .u.
54
ell the more we charged, the,ntore
asr,u t plc wanted to fill
sr^. esrl hRs are fond of rhpriq�,ara o ,,j
�. y day ng it,
good h
ly, _ good shared by earlyviyitots to
tom: the Racquet Club.
.it was the one oasis in tire world s(,
at
was helped, not hindered, by We �.
s j P-. pression. -
r r ,.When the gang in Hollywood
i found they could come here and
spend much money but make their own
,.'n
' fun. they began flocking to the desert
tF a and palm Springs:' Farrell related.
a^^----,y " In those days, impromptu emutaia.
1 1 rf, 7 ,.rur 'mot was provided by such well know,
liter day stars as Fling Crosby, Phil
ciq Bad.N b 'h d„"h,y,n u -e ml.i'r rf I c r k,1-i r -tneabt H r,h tmrd,'' ILtrris, Alice Faye, and Judy Gadand
4 arrvi /r»'r 1 It. rr airy duk qo e.alcC » rsJ ,a»»cit
Clarr»ee Ngvt »da'ha.71+n'reded Ill"It ax slusv,Farrell, n l lily ° N 1/ear mbcre beacame i"tn t tc time tksese people
anti
r d.Marrrl end Gerd»»F'xrEu+g draudixg.Iroru le(r nrr ranun/ur nrf r Tvm I106115 and you ca{l't blame themnt
Serfcy,ht Hpjd '?anurar} Rar Cnlgat tsdf Ptith,uwA Ir r7fraru Y.
Aft.»rrL.ri ay rt e,a»ayr,, wanting sonfe privacy and building
x 't rb fa It .d.gf Mevd'Nil their r,'«'n litimi ," Farrell comments
*% u mb ruu sr bLmr trrrirrf. I'll,losoPhically,
r.
rea/r, /,x„SrL Ib w h r,air.cb»rcbilt, However, the die had been cast.
poold I.....1-1 r.nr t.a,.
Membership in the Racquet Club w'as
definitely considered a Hollywutsd sta,
{" sus symbol.
Early members speak nostalgically
about the past. Mrs. William Powell
(called 'Mousse" by her friends and
7}, who was responsible for launching She
wtckly Mouseberger tennis toumxmme,
.a, still played at the club on Tuesday
nights)saysc
'
t We used to k'ruw evtrynoe. Today
Pill tr» it nrrbrz...... (7 a,1r, l �k'? People come u , he cl„b miJ we don't
/ar 5 y,,,Ir if Fou eft G nr. , . -y C5en know ,I
fiornx rd At,, ff // /'Mauut'l LJc=S ntc nc� .. S Tin 5
Pa»y1t ruler a pr:<xr re hdrarb.rr ar 1 - p g
WV Rurgurr Ctub.r& ,war am 1945 and the cha g ,,t bo for
$db ltppr!bird Ir»n nyb1,uml Grargr IrruJ,ure�d jraxr ri& manly (there isn't +a palm
R loWty at Palm
Spnsbx etporr inaapvral l..nilrJ Srdtrr drr»r yt eaffer e»rrrlmpi4ovoys,ix Ko"O. Springs durm4 dw - :doer -
ZLr.reu.uer)l5l axd Malror CburJxa Fyrr/f,a,rcaudlromtrfl,W`*lrb rir IAzra 'oh seaston.when one ;=u a;Xation City et]»yalr,Husufl Hr»k,lrfr,F/nxfesa tiyyd,jrrrp(y're&eufayr+ ll al K<ftxa,»,r7ghr,P»!m Sgrr{µs p'clirr rbtej. tt Ibdt hosting s bla,h - ;heRac- ;
- -'quet Ss`lob has srn .,_id..N
MAinta o. much of afer 't
❑erlity.
Walls have been
,I Tonatiths larger; the l ,•den.Roam
t:.: -once.outdoors — xas cm.i.ucd noire
YMM ago;.<and alter E;yrtcil said the
club to a group of incesh,r, 'including
hint °Murtltison. Jr, and Robert 44or*
Non five years ago, addition,tt suites, as
tMtra swimming pool and tennis counts
'Wereadded.
Elowevcvr, anyone entering ;lie Rac-
, _(ini club for the first lime is im
pde"e'd by the busy tel court, (my-
s;"a'Gy,' one who think the stars, co tutryls sup
industrialists and Political leadcfs who
Vl—
i k v,i .t i ,. asyai,itll ip, lt{
55
per` InauT the Racquet Club can't actually �lfy.nrr
ri,e play, halt another think coming), the
play prevalent at the bur, the fine
ttie fts,d..and the warmth with which new s -
n to
owner Morton and former owner Par-
ths, Tell,who is now chairman of the boanl,
do
grcet gets",
Uunng die day,most of thc members
Ne "light seated with 'rederirk
�t atr,� V
o arc clad in tennis logs or slacks, Farrell
,n usually bt found tahlr hopping,
cwn rR:n•a story here and a storythere.
g
.serf
lsxwC rrmbwscr of "ALy Fair Lady" �-
C,mehn", and "Gigi; former singing -.
Phil Ragan; Howard Duff and
Ida Lupine; or David McDonald, Ares- PALM sPRiNcS sin note,.
Phi?
ident of tixr United Steelworkers of
ird ,imerica --- or tie and Dinah Sir,,
^t� cyrold be handing out trophies follow- �•'
for lug one of the many tennis tournanems
e l,ianned throughout the year, u l U
axes It its land: time, hr is probably
seated quietly with Sherman Hull, who _
has liven manager of the Racquet Club
the past snenteen years, at what thl- x'
refer to as the 'family table" I
Purtl, Who now has white hail but
dly retains his youthful appearance, person
mil ahoy and zest. is fund of reminiscing.
nd During the last annual Desert Curl
die he recalled that in the early LAGS the
fits Racquet Club had prodded a float for
Tay the parade- PAWTING CON-raAcrtsu rue..
"it was svmbolic of the Aerial Tram. 7br 1——
•.,ay--and that was twenty years a&°• s h Pat.5P+>Ar=Sµ,liorrt
he said. "It should have won. It was
` .. tJdo.eda Gov<Ganrg ,
designed by Harry 01iarr who did the
:> its for '$tt+gn6k
• 1t has nrsee Ixca i—liliuxed, but Css ty:ll—. . 3Fni 4L1sa<we tar•..n,a
air e
,r� I contributed ku soasly Ircm Jr..
c at r,.m•,:,
xi au'a pocketbwik toward aiaklrg the
a ;-.-
,. Aerial Tramway a reality.
,t. Farrell is as popular wnh the club.
rot If
thrp(oyres as its members, •_°M s '=, '. '- .
f One housekeeper worked there far
elerrn years; the woman who replaced
Ir, her has held the tame position Jar foul `�la;"• s
Teen yetis;. Tax Gregg has been Ica.. "
tc tender since 1936; Cy Hodges has � t
,r Landed bar for the same 11,911, of time,
and .ue president and gcncr_I manager
Moor al )Tull and teams pro David " ,LESS B. WORTHINGTON, INC.
ii G1dam are. starting ;heir spv;nl"Lith a
is year at the Ratqucl Chat, I alYltlltg," GanLra(:LoI's
,'an of the Farrell loyalty i❑ I'alna RESITIUN7 LAI. • COMMERCIAL • MAINTENANCE
r sprnip IN due to )'is parti"I"Itioti --
l7.aoo HIGHWAY Ili IPHONE 346 1131 tA5 pA4MA58lDG.
a and Thai of inj ,it - to cunrrnuoity PALM DESERT. CALIFORNIA
Froiccis 'Tbfire Is To trio large or
J 111411 for the I-artelh to tackle. ono. uwveasirr, sae DIEGO am.aa=, xva yr
9` In tpt s w6an there war a tranren,lou+
A.
H3
56
Ilirivis
tauau G,a'+eet nowt_of his hat Perfwmmees a
4 non'"howd Mayor of Palm is
P inXt
One fellow council memhe r F ,th -
that when Farrell was Ewni wllg
Particularly difloolt issue be ,not,
,t say.:
_ 99 RYow look, Mr. Attorney. Who
S lT tlua aU about? We dun`t hove yew
kind of Problems up at the R,,Ilof,
Club."
A-ordulg to some a w,,he`o'oWd
allow despair over a turn of averts}n
txurymg Its head dramAu,illy I, his
foms at thr toured (abh.
Yet during his term As palm Stuff,
Arro r xs,.:u�r.,.�u.r».t tars ar,r rvr roe rfr sort rnu..r. Mayor. he workad hard, look. his, IoE:
uktkl Eor for mtrsrr. MI, come farorit" io Palm Springs for srriausly and the city made many st,
i'Sirall wo turn of It handful exl wc,utcn msny years, llnl ornu,s[e1y. "Mr, provx'mcnks,
ehn oigamord the AC'.rr+ttew-.t Au,,Io y (hoohill sussed away lask yaar, and 'Many of tl ilf• on to help baoutJe
"1 ofthaX?ccert.litnpfgl. tilt I,, wa, felt b}•most Raegoct Cluh ft,hu Springs.
Ve krrit,.thow ,IIfhcsdt i_t l" to habimees, -.ac[ me time. Patin (_anyo a taco,
'.got hrimung alcommodanor,,ar'It,m Fuilowing world Wit,11, Ifirrcll wa, was loved with lorroor, talCgts u It
teiitan apaffisom in Palm Springs.And persuaded to rum for the Cif)' Couccd shooting Fallertea;- Ruth Hardy selu.
We:knew that if we could offer tilt served or: the ory csmncil with ruftb.
ouryes a lovely 14cr of III to It e - rccaill
. ..
Asfr&[ng in Fulm Sly qq; would he �.. I "€See LeatiUp no life Cikp
more atnaetivr to th mntos rl arttoe<."
exPlaxned It a" .,.ring Farrci)s Orion le. _
SIB t lllr the A 1 r , fore i..�.. Ihar rltic ulm
11� 1.... _ 1 i trees,,Along Palm Casgnw,
- were llT ind that Tamar ills Plitt xa.
It ,rsks to I-s-:
I t LNC'c . , nsrEb
]ai•L r,., ,�- �1 C ,uxlid r,,.,
t!tollrer plan.
1A,
t _,w 7.buR , lrIn s.r a li,Ill'/
Rem.arir
cFll i, a
I Al 1 i n .dn mt
_ r I c imca rt g t rC 6 ',t l sp II 'rn t
ir, u x ui lick m falm YI r. x but rh L t rG t t5'1e nog is[ire Naval Commandery!Jo tit r r e r! t n:pg rh ,tilt_ reene^m eq 1 h•r -.
r[r. i mdl IwIpO sow dk Pal d fan a+Eo r ld...
tcrnlcd I arch e t
I Sl.nn}., of [h rt_uirat w,
f
Ali
i911d Slx;f i5 Y:11nK nh Ilit 'a,
l ,,,;lain that €tin, SI OtLtr mtctasta that Leap tlxe :Srrcll. r n!^at pface for nmni t -
- hum}` ur the Pdikt Club, an r`0 '"' t tr t Noolh Ndm $prink h a-as
orgvolza !arr<II uh ��
tune 1e li t to Aacsli -
I 1:-rnenannti m m[crr�t Y he surd I was dr.efted.' con
m the' � I u6. of uhil sloe ti J hr one it, sand 9truaitln ni the Rod,Par<71 id.e was
. a rtli r u n max r, 1 °i t scd n<' la S um tht bauhall Flrld.tt,ap that was tltteJ in 79it=
xch. m I I ,h,Ilet tt e}, theusue 1 rtis 7rlaw wur,itu,t "- In titter}esrc
mix r leitud hu,x
ioi; � u 1 rtntit- .t tl, <nd t1 11 vyur f 8; l+ the Seattle'Rapiers t LA
I on o ll a-(g and 6o It." gds, whb ummah' r , Nd
e.h wT Hn , , n ' .]ce R•t far a lhenl
1pd ut Id52 twa year «ran in for sprang eeaining I ,ee
( 1€�c I rn li. h .c u 1 Ix:co pt
L. ors .ud rl:.'• two fr,h:um, ..Ate. k_ny (ounril me mlr ri a to correct_ but untrt Ilm. ol,
(lv�ah•❑ v I "Lilly - bit
hcta au,l there a e those whot
o ['' red paid, refCretd to khe field say he Guc¢
I
,;;�n •., ro," . t 7 ,e 7";h t
J �
r
on Ply 3t, 05'�, f411awf4g his rc.
}ar4 to thesis. and. after a dispute
f... and the Wt4s of the 0.,.manager.
�. Chyyy Ijavid Farte11 resigned a May.
4t to spngm
[ m 5Fringi mast colorful ,imi _
txyad hii Jifr nn Augass 9, 194,f in .
ltratyM'+le, Massa lausetts-_scsmral
nwk}ynyith:4F Heston.
Fits fattitr (who today lives in Palm
y jngs).:bwncd three motion pictLim
t60,o g sad 6rrcif often says fie sei f. ...
picas "sweeping popcorn out
a `,� , drt thtittt*a"•
.._� d }�. —ss tNo'fE�nti'lTyrp(IL in
. , xcls'rst>�9a wcs ao
},5� tlCif iWYtte�..5ws 5twCYFx CPC �#'Mhe Him _
Sur Frarunru M.per axd M.• C "Ch...mpk,•rtiN Cfmrf6"rA'gargxe.Chrh
/tl 1,ftitanl9 !pt alft#a' you4g k•�•Smil6arrrepfa rdr Cbart' F' t!Re qr,r Uxb Prp.rxd! aPb}! rh.M..,re
Li MOO CWO vt S} AWf w rb Fh! ud Pulo F !J w,,Ik rlij, mdti fe •rnx.
Aiavw Clxi pxbl vr;Mr.S rL r»J PA.SP r Cr L..1 a pw6ir bey! M,V Iapa•,
Jett,
l ( i�yJy- c:� •{i
P t tYCdb"IM`Cll+lit b4F-..
:ng'himpim,l, and worf.cd .x an Ex.
tro+n fdms
`I nscd to walk A fax w q feriae say
),el ennm m downtown Lr,< Angeles
k
ro WIlywWrl - fuu to >ave a dime - t -
:n stratt(ar uwr' Le is 'omd of uno s,
mtssang. 'And .,,mctnnos w•}zcn I reach-
td tla eariiwg office, I.was t,e,afraid y
ui ssk for WQrk,"
For tltr;pmt twelse star ncc Farrelts
lm't :avcd in a r.mdabng SI tn„ house
w UIxoph. It is ..Nf zlw Lf Muadot
ly 1i d and around the tansy from dfit'•
:,. •tat. It hss rw4 segmmc entrances.
d K
x-"gtc Ss6 patio And L> Idird with -
a a goes that the I'arttil^: ,4lkrred in)
px ttx" many tftps.ar4und the world-
Mrs,
l�e'Fave Wr bonne,' htrs 6,ueAl -
r asys simp(p ': ,ut
F Sa+xml,ymtrs ago the l.zrcah&. aho
` - atWayE hnyhnp, aed '11mg}sad. im whE .Yafw S j asrU<i s ! e r r
_ uYML'Jbvi:4v $tha
a>^I is prop" ir, PA M k5r„V r r w �"a(hamn+Far
4`htt2c ava5 x gnat deal nt pultllcit..y -
�Nt fact th they ttismld n*rentually
Spaish home in the hurt
Ali Springs and.move to 8 roodern
bqf my in Patin pert — ac many T•a * ,
k I Id�M4i WCtY t�41�$• ����i it i .
tAat noIntcnti4tta 4F &aving d
p�N Est a d-y
rangy No mattar how the City
-ato4nd day;krit ra out hnroe• ,. _ '. � ��;,�,
w�
58
Property Detail Report Page 1 of 1
Property Detail Report for: PRODUC S MAP ,,N,�,„,
630 E TACHEVAH DR, PALM SPRINGS, CA, 922624902
Owner Information:
Owner Name: MANLY,JOHN C MANLY,JILL A
Mailing Address: 206 MORNING CANYON RD,CORONA DEL MAR,CA,92625-2640
Vesting Code: TRUST Phone Number:
Location Information:
Legal Description: POR LOT 1 MB 0181076 EL MIRADOR ESTATES
County: RIVERSIDE FIPS Code: 06065 Census Trct/Blk: 044602/1
APN: 507-092-008 Alternative APN: Map Ref: E7-756
Twnshp-Rnge-Sect: -- Legal Book/Page: Tract No:
Legal Lot: 1 Legal Block:
Subdivison: EL MIRADOR ESTATES
Last Market Sale Information: " '""""""--'m.____..._._._.____
Sale Date: 5/2612011 Sale Price: $1,000,000 1st Mtg Amount: $
Sale Doc No: 2011-0233530 Price Per SgFt: $274 1st Mtg Int Type:
Transfer Doc No: Price Per Acre: $1,428,571 2"d Mtg Amount: $
1 st Mtg Doc No: 2"d Mtg Int Type:
Sale Type: FULL AMOUNT COMPUTED
Deed Type: GRANT DEED/DEED OF TRUST
Title Company: FIRST AMERICAN TITLE COMPANY
Lender:
Seller Name: GRENCE,JEROME M;GRENCE,CARRIE SNYDER
Property Characteristics:
Building Area: 3,652 Total Rooms: Construction:
Living Area: 3,652 Bedrooms: 4 Heat Type: CENTRAL
Garage Area: Baths: 4 Air Cord: CENTRAL
Basement Area: Fireplace: Roof Type:
Parking Type: No of Stories: 1 Roof Material: TILE
Yr Buill/Effective: 1933/ Quality: Style:
Pool Code:
Tax and Value Information:
Assessed Value: $1,013,000 Assessed Year: 2013 Est Market Val: $1,350,500
Land Value: $253,000 Property Tax: $12,845 Assessor Appd Val:
Improvement Value: $760,000 Improvement%: 75
Total Taxable Value: Tax Exemption:
Site Information:
Assessor Acres: 0.7 Zoning: R1A Land Use Code: 163
Assessor Lot SgFt: 30,492 No of Buildings: Land Use Desc: SFR
Lot W/D: ! Res/Comm Units: 1 County Use Code: R1
Calculated Acres: 0.8277 Sewer Type:
Calculated Lot Sq Ft: 36,055 Water Type:
59
http://de 1.pareelstream.com/GetByKey.aspx?dataSource=%24%28ACCOUNT_NAME%2... 6/18/2014
Property Detail Report Page 1 of I
DI
Property Detail Report for: PRODUCLMAP e.yWaur�xn
PRODUCTS
1120 N VIA MIRALESTE, PALM SPRINGS, CA, 92262-4821
Owner Information:
Information:
Owner Name: MANLY,JOHN C MANLY,JILL A
Mailing Address: 206 MORNING CANYON RD,CORONA DEL MAR,CA,92625-2640
Vesting Code: TRUST Phone Number:
Location Information:
Legal Description: POR LOT 1 MB 0181076 EL MIRADOR ESTATES
County: RIVERSIDE FIPS Code: 06065 Census Trct/Blk: 04460211
APN: 507-092-009 Alternative APN: Map Ref: E7-756
Twnshp-Rnge-Sect: -- Legal Book/Page: Tract No:
Legal Lot: 1 Legal Block:
Subdivison: EL MIRADOR ESTATES
Last Market Sale Information:
Sale Date: 5/26/2011 Sale Price: $390,000 151 Mtg Amount: $
Sale Doc No: 2011.0233531 Price Per Sq Ft: $230 1st Mtg Int Type:
Transfer Doc No: Price Per Acre: $1,695,652 2nd Mtg Amount: $
131 Mtg Doc No: 2nd Mtg Int Type:
Sale Type: FULL AMOUNT COMPUTED
Deed Type: GRANT DEED/DEED OF TRUST
Title Company: FIRST AMERICAN TITLE COMPANY
Lender:
Seller Name: GRENCE,JEROME;GRENCE,CARRIE
Property Characteristics:
Building Area: 1,698 Total Rooms: Construction:
Living Area: 1,698 Bedrooms: 4 Heat Type: CENTRAL
Garage Area: Baths: 3 Air Cond: CENTRAL
Basement Area: Fireplace: Roof Type:
Parking Type: No of Stories: 1 Roof Material: TILE
Yr Built/Effective: 1934/ Quality: Style:
Pool Code:
Tax and Value Information:
Assessed Value: $374,000 Assessed Year: 2013 Est Market Val: $603,166
Land Value: $123,000 Property Tax: $4,861 Assessor Appd Val:
Improvement Value: $251,000 Improvement W 67
Total Taxable Value: Tax Exemption:
Site Information: ��_--- - �-
Assessor Acres: 0.23 Zoning: R1A Land Use Code: 163
Assessor Lot SgFt: 10,019 No of Buildings: Land Use Desc: SFR
Lot W/D: / Res/Comm Units: 1 County Use Code: R7
Calculated Acres: 0.2869 Sewer Type:
Calculated Lot SgFt: 12,497 Water Type:
60
http://del.parcelstream.com/GetByKey.aspx?dataSource=%24a/`28ACCOLJNT NAME°/r,2... 6/18/2014
Ken Lyon
From: John Manly <JManly@manlystewart.com>
Sent: Friday,June 20, 2014 9:23 AM
To: Ken Lyon
Cc: My Love;Suzanna Storm; Jackie Storm
Subject: Farrell Estate/Proposed Class 1
Dear Ken, I am aware of the City of Palm Springs Historic Site Preservation Board's initiation of studies for
possible Class 1 designation of the Charlie Farrell House, at 630 East Tachevah Driveand the associated Guest
House at 1250 North Via Miraleste. My wife Jill and I own both parcels and am writing to indicate our written
support of the proposed designations of both parcels.
I think this would have made Charlie and his wife Virginia very happy.
John Manly
61
t
Historic Site Preservation Draft Minutes
July 8,2014
Page 2 of 10
1.A. APPROVAL OF THE MINUTES: JUNE 10, 2014 MEETING.
Approve as amended M/S/C Williamson/Hays (4-1-2) Ploss opposed, Dixon and
La Voie abstained.
1.13. QUEST BY BILL LEWALLEN (OWNER) FOR EXECUTION OF A MILLS
A HISTORIC PROPERTY PRESERVATION AGREEMENT BETWEEN THE
CI F PALM SPRING, THE ROYAL HAWAIIAN ESTATES HOMEOWNERS
ASSO TE AND BILL LEWALLEN FOR THE PROPERTY LOCATED AT
283 EAS IN PALMS DRIVE, A CONTRIBUTING STRUCTURE ELIGIBLE
FOR CLA 1 HISTORIC STATUS WITHIN THE ROYAL HAWAIIAN
HISTORIC DI RICT (HSPB 73 / HD-2).
M/S/C Ploss/Dixon prove staff's recommendation (7-0).
1.C. REQUEST BY RICH A COOK AND CHRISTOPHER MACALUSO,
OWNERS FOR EXECUT OF A MILLS ACT HISTORIC PROPERTY
PRESERVATION AGREEME BETWEEN THE CITY OF PALM SPRINGS,
THE RACQUET CLUB GARD VILLAS HOMEOWNERS ASSOCIATION
AND RICHARD COOK AND RISTOPHER MACALUSO, FOR THE
PROPERTY LOCATED AT 360 CABRILLO ROAD UNIT 118, A
CONTRIBUTING STRUCTURE ELIGIB FOR CLASS 1 HISTORIC STATUS
WITHIN THE RACQUET CLUB COTTA S WEST HISTORIC DISTRICT,
(HSPB 88 / HD-3).
M/S/C Ploss/Dixon Approve staff's recommendati (6-0-1) La Voie recused.
1.D. REQUEST BY MICHAEL FLEMING AND LUIS A. VIN, OWNERS FOR
EXECUTION OF A MILLS ACT HISTORIC PROPE PRESERVATION
AGREEMENT BETWEEN THE CITY OF PALM SPRIN AND MICHAEL
FLEMING AND LUIS A. LAVIN FOR THE PROPERTY LO TED AT 1860
VISTA DRIVE, A CLASS 1 HISTORIC SITE (HSPB 89).
M/S/C Approve staff's recommendation (7-0).
F
PUBLIC HEARINGS
2.A APPLICATION BY THE CITY OF PALM SPRINGS FOR CONSIDERATION OF
CLASS 1 HISTORIC DESIGNATION OF 630 EAST TACHEVAH DRIVE
KNOWN AS "THE CHARLIE FARRELL ESTATE" (HSPB-80) AND 1120
NORTH VIA MIRALESTE KNOWN AS "THE GUEST HOUSE" (HSPB-81)
ZONE R-1-13.
sz
Historic Site Preservation Draft Minutes
July 8,2014
Page 3 of 10
STAFF MEMBER LYON summarized the staff report.
BOARD MEMBER WILLIAMSON questioned the guest house status as a non-
compliant property. Asked if not designating it would leave it vulnerable to future
unsympathetic renovations or tear down that would potentially detract from the
historic nature of the site on which the main house is sited.
BOARD MEMBER BURKETT questioned whether a house needs to be
considered "grand" to qualify for historic designation. He complimented the staff
report.
ASSOCIATE PLANNER LYON noted that staff believes that neither persons nor
events associated with the guest house warrant Class 1 designation.
BOARD MEMBER PLOSS noted that when Ernst Off built the house, it was one
property. When she visited the site, the guest house felt like it is part of the
larger estate, not separate. She noted several report corrections including
concern about content of the attachments authored by Craig Ewing.
DIRECTOR WHEELER suggested deleting the attachments authored by Craig
Ewing.
BOARD MEMBER LA VOIE suggested including Board Member Ploss'
comments as an addendum. Page 7 of 10, bullet 8 should say "extended sill"
not "molding".
BOARD MEMBER LA VOIE noted that on page 7 of the report, the first 5 items
in the non-contributing list are not original to the house; and on page 9, bullet
number two, suggested "Classic and exemplary example..." is better language.
BOARD MEMBER HAYS supports including 1120 Via Miraleste in the Class 1
designation and suggested the two parcels should be merged.
BOARD MEMBER PLOSS moved to recommend Class 1 designation for both
sites. Second by Board Member La Voie, motion withdrawn.
M/S/C Hays/Dixon Approve staff recommendation recommending Class 1
designation for the Charlie Farrell House at 630 Tachevah Drive and take no
action on the Guest House at 1120 N Via Miraleste. (6-1) Ploss opposed.
3. ED BUSINESS:
3.A. CERTIFICATE ROVAL REQUEST BY THE CITY OF PALM SPRINGS
FOR REHABILITATIO E EXTERIOR OF THE CORNELIA WHITE
HOUSE, A CLASS 1 HISTORI �•�QC_ATED AT THE VILLAGE GREEN
PARK, 225 SOUTH PALM CANYON—�RI ZONE CBD AND A
CATEGORICAL EXEMPTION PURSUANT TO CEQA 63
Historic Site Preservation Board Page 5 of 6
Minutes from the May 8, 2012 Meeting
Motion by Grattan; second by Ploss; vote 6-0, to initiate investigation for possible
designation of the Farrell house at the Racquet Club, 630 E. Tachevah and 11201
Via Miraleste.
8. nitia ion o rocedure for Designation of Historic Site:
- Casa Palmeras, 783 N. Indian Canyon Drive
Seni Planner Edward Robertson summarized the staff memo.
The Cha invited Patrick McGrew to clarify the name of the property, which he
indicated h changed over the years as noted in his book. He opposed holding
the Kocher-S son building nomination until the Casa Palmeras nomination is
ready, and ob ed to the Board initiating nominations without preliminary
investigations into he property. He offered to complete a historic documentation
on the Casa Palme ' property.
The Board discussed th rocedure for initiating investigation and Board member
Ploss offered to prepare th historic documentation.
Motion by Ploss; second by eLeeuw, vote 6-0, to initiate investigation for
possible designation of Casa Pa eras, 783 N. Indian Canyon Drive.
8.D Historic Markers (Plaques) —Stephe House, Sinatra House, Del Marcos Hotel
Chair Gilmer asked Board member Gra to prepare draft language for the three
markers, and she agreed.
9. COMMITTEE REPORTS AND SPECIAL PROJEC
No report.
10. STAFF & OTHER REPORTS
Senior Planner Robertson requested Board member DeLee to e-mail to him the
list of properties in the Las Palmas Business Historic District that Mr. Robertson
could be forwarded to the entire Board.
11. BOARD MEMBER COMMENTS
Board member Ploss distributed a list of film and other media programm that
included a reference to Palm Springs.
64
Ken Lyon
From: Margo Wheeler
Sent: Sunday, June 29, 2014 10:53 AM
To: Ken Lyon
Cc: Joanne Bruggemans
Subject: FW: In Support of Historic Designation - The Charles Farrell Estate
1 PP 9
M. Margo Wheeler, F.A.I.C.P.
Director of Planning Services
City of Palm Springs
3200 E. Tahquitz Canyon Way
Palm Springs, CA 92262
Tel: (760) 323-8269 / Fax (760) 322-8360
Email: Margo.Wheeler(o)palmspringsca.gov
From: Jay Thompson
Sent: Friday, June 27, 2014 11:19 AM
To: Margo Wheeler; Terri Hintz
Subject: FW: In Support of Historic Designation -The Charles Farrell Estate
From: MCLEConsul(cbaol.com [mai Ito:MCLEConsulCalaol.com)
Sent: Friday, June 27, 2014 11:14 AM
To: Jay Thompson
Subject: In Support of Historic Designation -The Charles Farrell Estate
TO: The Historic Site Preservation Board
c/o Jay Thompson, City Clerk
Dear Friends:
I fully support historic designation and I write per instructions on the Notice of Intention document
which I received today.
This very important step is many years overdue. The Grence's (Jerome and Carrie Grence) the
previous owners and caretakers of this beautiful property for some 20 years, would have done it
themselves years ago, but for various reasons weren't ready. Also, Jerry Grence was on the
Planning Commission for a number of those years, as you may recall, and I believe he held back as
possible conflict of interest.
Just thought you all would like to know that from the 1950s, it has been "The Charles Farrell Estate"
rather than residence. Locals just say "the Charlie Farrell Estate."
I for one look forward to the property receiving its due. The time is so right for it. Thank you for your
great work. 65
i
Donna Chaban-Delmas
(760) 449-0021
(and Board Member, RCENO).
66
z
Ken Lyon
From: Richard Wilson <rswrswrsw@aol.com>
Sent: Thursday, August 21, 2014 4:35 PM
To: Ken Lyon
Subject: "CHARLES FARRELL ESTATE"
Hello Ken,
Just a quick note to let you know that I support the application for the Farrell Estate as a Class
I Historical Site. I live in the El Mirador Neighborhood and feel that it would be a great asset
for us as a neighborhood.
Thank you.
Richard Wilson
1466 N Opuntia Rd
Palm Springs 92262
67
Ken Lyon
From: Margo Wheeler
Sent: Wednesday, July 02, 2014 4:21 PM
To: Ken Lyon
Cc: Joanne Bruggemans
Subject: FW: historic preservation board
M. Margo Wheeler, F.A.I.C.P.
Director of Planning Services
City of Palm Springs
3200 E. Tahquitz Canyon Way
Palm Springs, CA 92262
Tel: (760) 323-8269 1 Fax (760) 322-8360
Email: Margo.Wheeler(cDpalmspringsca.gov
From: Jay Thompson
Sent: Wednesday, July 02, 2014 3:55 PM
To: Margo Wheeler; Terri Hintz
Subject: FW: historic preservation board
From: Bridgette Sullenger rmailto:bridoettesullenger gmail.com]
Sent: Tuesday, July 01, 2014 8:52 AM
To: Jay Thompson
Subject: historic preservation board
Hello Jay;
I hope this email finds you well!
As a neighbor I would like to voice my support of the proposed historic dwelling Class I Historic Designation
for the home known to neighbors as the "Charlie Farrell House" at 630 East Tachevah and 1120 North Via
Miraleste. I believe that allowing this home the Historic Designation will continue to upgrade our
neighborhood and allow appropriate preservation(and any future reconstruction) for a home that plays an
important role in the history of telling the story of our city. Thank you for your time and if you would like any
further insights into why I support this project please contact me.
Bridgette
*Dr. B.A. Sullenger*
760-774-3448
This e-mail, including attachments, may include confidential and/or proprietary information, and may be used
only by the person or entity to which It.is addressed If the reader of this e-mail is not the intended,recipient or
t 68
Cindy Berardi
From: Richard Wilson <rswrswrsw@aol.com>
Sent: Thursday, August 21, 2014 4:39 PM
To: Cindy Berardi
Subject: "CHARLES FARRELL ESTATE"
Hello Cindy,
Just a quick note to let you know that I support the application for the Farrell Estate as a Class
I Historical Site. I live in the El Mirador Neighborhood and feel that it would be a great asset
for us as a neighborhood.
Thank you.
Richard Wilson
1466 N Opuntia Rd
Palm Springs 92262
N
A r
n- 3a
v
C') �13
m �.0
-; �
3 n�
r
ao
69
CITY OF PALM SPRINGS
PUBLIC HEARING NOTIFICATION
Date: September 3, 2014
Subject: HSPB 80 & 81 "The Charlie Farrell House" and "The Guest House"
AFFIDAVIT OF PUBLICATION
I, Cynthia A. Berardi , Deputy City Clerk, of the City of Palm Springs, California, do hereby
certify that a copy of the attached Notice of Public Hearing was published in the Desert Sun
on August 23, 2014.
1 declare under penal) of perjury that the foregoing is true and correct.
Cynthia A. Berardi, CMC
Deputy City Clerk
AFFIDAVIT OF POSTING
I, Cynthia A. Berardi, Deputy City Clerk, of the City of Palm Springs, California, do hereby
certify that a copy of the attached Notice of Public Hearing was posted at City Hall, 3200 E.
Tahquitz Canyon Drive, on the exterior legal notice posting board, and in the Office of the
City Clerk on August 21, 2014.
1 declare and r penalty of perjury that the foregoing is true and correct.
Cynthia A. erardi, CMC
Deputy City Clerk
AFFIDAVIT OF MAILING
I, Cynthia A. Berardi, Deputy City Clerk, of the City of Palm Springs, California, do hereby
certify that a copy of the attached Notice of Public Hearing was mailed to each and every
person on the attached list on August 21, 2014, in a sealed envelope, with postage prepaid,
and depositing same in the U.S. Mail at Palm Springs, California. (48 notices)
I declare under penalty of perjury that the foregoing is true and correct.
i
Cyn erardi, CMC
Deputy City Clerk
70
The Desert Sun Certificate of Publication
750 N Gene Autry Trail
Palm Springs, CA 92262 C E I Y L.
760-778-4578/Fax 760-778-4731 .f `)F P A L VI `' ".
2QI4 AUG 26 AM 8: 01
JAIL$ fhUIk �G,I
State Of California BE: CITY CLERK
County of Riverside MIMIN
M � .Gyp P�Inq�
CnvOFPAL SSPIIINGs; Uul'1� INA
Advertiser: oFWEEAST TACHEHVAH DRIVE'THE CHAR.
LIEFARRELL HOU HrPBYBO '1120
ANOfgRTH-VIA MI X O OLISE'
CITY OF PALM SPRINGS/LEGALS FR&C 811k. AND E OF EXEMPTION
PO BOX 2743 NOTICE 15 HEREBY GIVEN that Me CwINII
PALM SPRINGS CA 922632 hold aP�Citye a�'I�eItsg,,Csforni��l
3.2014. The City Council meefingbegIns at
6:01)Easy T�eCC Council Chambers at CIfryN Hell,
SIM q ' Canyon Way,Palm Springs.
The puma of the hea is to consider racom-
2000457639 me fromthe HI Site Preservation
Board for Class 1 historic designation of ere pmp
eM kceted at OW East To�ravah Drive(APN
� tod at
2-M)'The Charge FFaamelflH2ouse'(HH$P88
North Via
MUeleste((APN -gB2.009)'The Guest House'
(RSPB a8i).
I am over the age of 18 years old, a citizen of the United
States and not a party to, or have interest in this matter. I
hereby certify that the attached advertisement appeared
in said newspaper (set in type not smaller than non panel)
in each and entire issue of said newspaper and not in any
supplement thereof on the following dates,to wit: �' ._.._ I•
i
Newspaper: .The Desert Sun .I
I
8/23/2014
yM BPPINZIi__
mz
ENVIRONMENTAL DETERMINATION:
This request is categorically exempt(Taff review
ursuenQ tt to Section 15331 (Historical Resource
HapaaG lily Ad(oCn�of), Caeas the acknowledge that I am a principal clerk of the printer of rarcneotar Quality Act et the,whereas Me pro-
tlesiIMatiofa meat the conditions outlined
The Desert Sun, printed and published weekly in the City rpreaervetion ofamstonc reaouma.
of Palm Springs, County of Riverside, State of California. REVIEW OF PROJECT INFORMATION:
The Desert Sun was adjudicated a newspaper of general The staff report and other au pomng documents
regerdl Ora Pre available for pubic re-
cimulation on March 24, 1988 by the Superior Court of the view ar ty Hell on th8 hours of a oD a.m.
County of Riverside, State of California Case No. co�rri etthe0(Area�e CM Cork ataxy. %
191236. (760)323-8204 if you watlo like to schedule an
appointment to review these documents
OONMENT ON THIS APPLICATION: Re.
I declare under penalty of perjury that the foregoing is true sTuHnrsco to this n and/orotice may
beti g b fora ply he the
ing, Written comments mey be made to the Clry
and correct. Executed on this 23rd day of August, 2014 in Countloyletter(formallor harddelivery)to:,
Palm Springs, Calif a. James Thompson,City Clerk
3200 East Tahquhz Ca on Way
Palm Springs,CA 82262
AMY challenge of the Proposed pro lIact in court
may be Imited to raising only those(asuee relged
at the Public Head ng desedbed in this Notice or in
wthlen conespordence deFvereIf to the C'dy Clerk
at,or wbr to,the Ciry Councl hearing.(Gorem-
meM Code section 6
cldrant's I G I 1 An opportunity will be given at gold hearing for all
Interested\ h 1 ingg t Cause May 16 be to Ken e�RA,
// 1 Associate Planner at(760)32s,8245,
Si ne4aeia ayuda can esta cattle,porfevor home a
Is Ciudad do Palm Spd aerie nobler can
1 Nacho Fleger NNeform(7WI323-B246. qrp�
Published:Al Jerrds Cdy Clercek
NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING
CITY COUNCIL
CITY OF PALM SPRINGS, CALIFORNIA
PROPOSED CLASS 1 HISTORIC DESIGNATION OF 630 EAST TACHEVAH DRIVE
"THE CHARLIE FARRELL HOUSE" (HSPB#80) AND
1120 NORTH VIA MIRALESTE "THE GUEST HOUSE" (HSPB #81), AND
NOTICE OF EXEMPTION FROM CEQA
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the City Council of the City of Palm Springs, California, will hold
a Public Hearing at its meeting of September 3, 2014. The City Council meeting begins at
6:00 p.m. in the Council Chambers at City Hall, 3200 East Tahquitz Canyon Way, Palm Springs.
The purpose of the hearing is to consider a recommendation from the Historic Site Preservation
Board for Class 1 historic designation of the property located at 630 East Tachevah Drive (APN
507-092-008) "The Charlie Farrell House" (HSPB #80) and the property located at 1120 North Via
Miraleste (APN 507-092-009) "The Guest House" (HSPB #81).
ENVIRONMENTAL DETERMINATION: This request is categorically exempt from review pursuant
to Section 15331 (Historical Resource Restoration/Rehabilitation) of the California Environmental
Quality Act (CEQA), whereas the proposed designations meet the conditions outlined for
preservation of a historic resource.
REVIEW OF PROJECT INFORMATION: The staff report and other supporting documents
regarding this project are available for public review at City Hall between the hours of 8:00 a.m.
and 6:00 p.m., Monday through Thursday. Please contact the Office of the City Clerk at
(760) 323-8204 if you would like to schedule an appointment to review these documents.
COMMENT ON THIS APPLICATION: Response to this notice may be made verbally at the Public
Hearing and/or in writing before the hearing. Written comments may be made to the City Council
by letter (for mail or hand delivery) to:
James Thompson, City Clerk
3200 East Tahquitz Canyon Way
Palm Springs, CA 92262
Any challenge of the proposed project in court may be limited to raising only those issues raised at
the Public Hearing described in this Notice or in written correspondence delivered to the City Clerk
at, or prior to, the City Council hearing. (Government Code Section 65009[b][2]).
An opportunity will be given at said hearing for all interested persons to be heard. Questions
regarding this case may be directed to Ken Lyon, RA, Associate Planner at (760) 323-8245.
Si necesita ayuda con esta carta, porfavor Ilame a la Ciudad de Palm Springs y puede hablar con
Nadine Fieger telefono (760) 323-8245.
ames Thompson
City Clerk
71
P1LM y N
Department of Planning Services w E
Vicinity Map s
PAssoE MRaooR
ru
A
ILL
Legend 4' S
Ste
Q 500'Radius
Parcels
CITY OF PALM SPRINGS
CASE NOs: HSPB 80 and HSPB 81 DESCRIPTION: Application by the City of
Palm Springs Historic Site Preservation Board
APPLICANT: City of Palm Springs for Class 1 historic designation of 630 East
Tachevah Drive, (APN 507-092-008) known
as "The Charlie Farrell House' and 1120 North
Via Miraleste, known as "The Guest House",
APN 507-092-009 .
72
x MR PETE MORUZZI
PALM SPRINGS MODERN COMMITTEE
, kzr P.O. BOX 4738
<- °= PALM SPRINGS, CA 92263-4738
CITY OF PALM SPRINGS CASE HSPB 80/81
PLANNING SERVICES DEPARTMENT MRS. JOANNE BRUGGEMANS
:-.-, t... .. ATTN SECRETARY/HSPB 80/81 506 W. SANTA CATALINA ROAD
PO BOX 2743 PALM SPRINGS, CA 92262
PALM SPRINGS, CA 92263-2743
CIA
MS MARGARET PARK, DIRECTOR RI PATRICIA HISTORIC
PR
_ TRIBAL HISTORIC PRESERVATION
AGUA CALIENTE BAND OF CAHUILLA OFFICER
INDIANS AGUA CALIENTE BAND OF CAHUILLA
PLANNING&DEVELOPMENT DEPT. INDIANS
5401 DINAH SHORE DRIVE 5401 DINAH SHORE DRIVE
PALM SPRINGS, CA 92264 PALM SPRINGS, CA 92264
SOBOBA BAND OF LUISENO INDIANS lip '
ATTN:JOSEPH ONTIVEROS
AT V' ❑IGHARD G. WADE ❑none ❑GAI
CULTURAL RESOURCES MANAGER 9A A dFM CT❑C�T\IUI\I A
P.O. BOX 487
SAN JACINTO, CA 92681 2740
ll
4'A
cycl
HEALTH,DESERT DIST SANDIN,FRANK A Current Occupant
507.170-008 507-155-018 507.155-018
1 140 N INDIAN CANYON DR 338 39TH AVE E 989 N VIA MIRALESTE
PALM SPRINGS CA 92262-4872 SEATTLE WA 981 12-5064 PALM SPRINGS CA 92262-5739
NELSON, ANTHONY A ITTLESON, HENRY PHILIP Current Occupant
507.092-015 507-092-007 507-092-007
690 E TACHEVAH DR 630 5TH AVE 650 E TACHEVAH DR
PALM SPRINGS CA 92262-4902 NEW YORK NY 1011 1-0100 PALM SPRINGS CA 92262-4902
MALAMUT,MICHAEL LEE Current Occupant DESERT,HEALTHCARE DIST
507-155-016 507-155-016 507-155-015
272 W STAFFORD RD 982 N AVENIDA PALMAS 1 140 N INDIAN CANYON DR
THOUSAND OAKS CA 91361-5057 PALM SPRINGS CA 92262-5710 PALM SPRINGS CA 92262-4872
Current Occupant MANLY, JOHN C Current Occupant
507-155-015 507-092-009 507-092-009
555 E TACHEVAH DR 206 MORNING CANYON RD 1120 N VIA MIRALESTE
PALM SPRINGS CA 92262-5750 CORONA DEL MAR CA 92625-2640 PALM SPRINGS CA 92262-4821
MANLY,JOHN C Current Occupant PALM SPRINGS UNIFIED SCHOOL
507-092-008 507-092-008 DIST
206 MORNING CANYON RD 630 E TACHEVAH DR 507-170-009
CORONA DEL MAR CA 92625-2640 PALM SPRINGS CA 92262-4902 333 S FARRELL DR
PALM SPRINGS CA 92262-7905
LAMSON, DALE R Current Occupant MANLY, JOHN C
507.083-002 507-083-002 507-083-001
2356 PARK AVE UNIT 47 651 E PASEO EL MIRADOR 206 MORNING CANYON RD
CINCINNATI OH 45206-2730 PALM SPRINGS CA 92262-4844 CORONA DEL MAR CA 92625-2640
Current Occupant DESERT, HOSPITAL DIST Current Occupant
507-083-001 507-070-016 507-070-016
1194 N VIA MIRALESTE # 18 BLDG A10 1140 N INDIAN CANYON DR
PALM SPRINGS CA 92262-4867 ALHAMBRA CA 91803- PALM SPRINGS CA 92262-4872
TENET HEALTHSYSTEM DESERT INC Current Occupant STUART,JOSEPH K
009-615-130 009-615-130 507-092-014
2ND FL UNT26 1140 N INDIAN CANYON DR 1115 N ASHER DR
ALHAMBRA CA 91803- PALM SPRINGS CA 92262-4872 PALM SPRINGS CA 92262-4840
ALVAREZ, FRANCIS J TALLICHET, CAROL M Current Occupant
507-092-013 507-092-011 507-092-011
1105 N ASHER DR PO BOX 2807 655 E VEREDA SUR
PALM SPRINGS CA 922624840 PALM SPRINGS CA 92263-2807 PALM SPRINGS CA 92262-4815
FRID,GERMAINE J DIETRICH, MARY S SJEROTY, ALAN G
507-092-010 507-092-004 507-092-003
687 E VEREDA SUR 723 E VEREDA SUR 6022 WILSHIRE BLVD STE 201
PALM SPRINGS CA 92262-4815 PALM SPRINGS CA 92262-4 8 1 5 LOS ANGELES CA 90036-3616
Current Occupant HOSTROP,RICHARD W HECKENLIVELY,JOHN R
507.092-003 507-091-004 507-091-003
695 E VEREDA SUR 700 E VEREDA SUR 5307 BETHENY CIR
PALM SPRINGS CA 922 62-4 8 1 5 PALM SPRINGS CA 92262-4816 SUPERIOR TOWNSHIP MI 48198-9653
Current Occupant BLAU, CRAIG M STANBRIDGE, STEVE
507-091.003 507-091-002 507-091-001
696 E VEREDA SUR 688 E VEREDA SUR 675 N PLAZA AMIGO
PALM SPRINGS CA 92262-4 8 1 6 PALM SPRINGS CA 92262-4816 PALM SPRINGS CA 92262-61 l5
MILLER, CAROL SUSAN Current Occupant CAMERON, LINN
507-083-005 507-083-005 507-083-004
26 HENEFER RD SW 775 E PASEO EL MIRADOR PO BOX 1353
CALGARY AB T2V3B4- PALM SPRINGS CA 92262-4844 AVALON CA 90704-1353
Current Occupant PEW LLC Current Occupant
507-083-004 507-083-003 507-083-003
747 E PASEO EL MIRADOR 756 BRYANT AVE 695 E PASEO EL MIRADOR
PALM SPRINGS CA 92262-4844 WALLA WALLA WA 99362-9322 PALM SPRINGS CA 92262-4844
Kathie Hart
From: Ken Lyon
Sent: Tuesday, September 02, 2014 9:11 AM
To: Jay Thompson
Cc: Kathie Hart; Doug Evans
Subject: FW:City Council on Charlie Farrell Class 1
Jay,
Here is a follow up a mail from John Manly, owner of the Charlie Farrell House and Guest House in support of the HSPB
recommendation as conditioned for City Council approval. This is on the September 3, 2014 CC agenda.
Let me know if you have further questions or need anything else from Planning. Thank you.
Ken Lyon, RA
Associate Planner
Department of Planning Services
City of Palm Springs,California
3200 Tahquitz Canyon Way
Palm Springs,California 92263
T 760 323 8245 F 760 323 8360
"Make no little plans,
They have no magic to tin mer's blood
And probably won't be realized.
Make big plans
Aim high in work and in hope,
Let your watchword be order,
And your beacon heauty"
Daniel Burnham.Architect and Planner
From: John Manly [ma ilto:J Man lyCclmanlystewart.com]
Sent: Thursday, August 28, 2014 6:58 PM
To: Ken Lyon
Cc: My Love
Subject: Re: City Council on Charlie Farrell Class 1
We support merging into 1 lot. Should we discuss? c
Un
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