HomeMy WebLinkAbout11/09/2000, 3 - APPEAL OF THE CULTURAL HERITAGE COMMITTEE'S (CHC) FINDING THAT THE STRUCTURE AT 811 EL CAPITAN IS HISTORICALLY AND ARCHITECTURALLY SIGNIFICANT AND THE COMMITTEE RECOMMENDATION THAT THE STRUCTURE BE PLACED ON THE LIST OF CONTRIBUTING PROPER council MRfim°.�
�j ac,Enba Report 3°.b"
CITY OF SAN LUIS OBISPO
FROM: Ron Whisenand, Development Review Manager O
Prepared By: Whitney McIlvaine, Associate Planner
SUBJECT: APPEAL OF THE CULTURAL HERITAGE COMMITTEE'S (CHC)
FINDING THAT THE STRUCTURE AT 811 EL CAPITAN IS
HISTORICALLY AND ARCHITECTURALLY SIGNIFICANT AND
THE COMMITTEE RECOMMENDATION THAT THE STRUCTURE
BE PLACED ON THE LIST OF CONTRIBUTING PROPERTIES
(GP/R/ER 108-00: Matt Quaglino,Appellant)
CAO RECOMMENDATION
Adopt a resolution 1) denying the appeal; 2) concurring with the CHC findings; and 3) adding
the structure at 811 El Capitan to the list of contributing properties.
DISCUSSION
Data Summary
Applicant/Appellant: Matt Quaglino
Representative: Oasis Landscape Architecture and Planning
Project Address: 811 and 903 El Capitan
Zoning: C-S (Service Commercial) and R-2 (Medium-Density Residential)
General Plan: Services and Manufacturing and Medium-Density Residential
REPORT-IN-BRIEF
The City received an application to rezone property at 811 and 903 EI Capitan from Service-
Commercial and Medium-Density Residential, respectively, to Service-Commercial Mixed Use.
Proposed development plans show roughly 21,000 square feet of commercial space and 14,000
square feet for 16 apartments, housed in two multi-story buildings. The new buildings would
replace the existing structure on the site, sometimes referred to as the "Log Cabin," which is
currently occupied by the House of Prayer church. For additional information on the site and the
development proposal, please refer to the Attachments 1 and 5 (project plans and the CHC
report).
As part of the project review, it is necessary to determine whether the existing structure has any
historic, architectural, or aesthetic significance. This determination is critical - primarily for
environmental review, but also for architectural review and to evaluate compliance with the
City's demolition regulations.
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Council Agenda Report—811 El Capitan
Appeal of CHC action
Page 2
A Cultural Resource Inventory, prepared by Bertrando and Bertrando Research Consultants,
submitted as part of the application, indicates that the building is potentially significant and
recommends further analysis. Further analysis done by Chattel Architecture, Planning, and
Preservation, Inc. (Chattel) concludes that the building does not have any architectural or historic
significance. (Both reports are contained in the Council packets for this item and also available
for review in the Community Development Department: File #ER 108-00.)
The Cultural Heritage Committee was asked to review both consultants' reports and make a
determination regarding the building's significance. The CHC concluded that the building is
significant historically and architecturally. In a separate motion, the CHC recommended that the
City Council add the property to the contributing properties list based on their findings of
significance (Attachment 6).
The applicant is appealing the findings and recommendations of the CHC (Attachment 4). The
applicant believes that the research and analysis prepared by Chattel demonstrates that the
property is not historically or architecturally significant. The appeal statement contends that the
recommendation for inclusion on the contributing properties list is inconsistent with City policy
and points out that inclusion of this property on such a list will trigger preparation of an
Environmental Impact Report.
Building Description and Use
Original building plans and photos of the newly constructed building were not found by either
consultant. Nonetheless, the research provides a good description of the building's construction
and use. The rectangular structure at 811 El Capitan is approximately 40 feet X 80 feet in size
and was constructed circa 1930. It is wood-framed with redwood, log-shaped siding and a barrel-
shaped lamella roof. There is a stone chimney on the western elevation. (See photos in both the
Chattel and Bertrando reports.)
Since its original construction, the building exterior has been altered by overpainting the siding;
infilling the original windows and doors; and shed additions to the east and south elevations. On
the interior, the original mezzanine has been removed. (See pp 9-13 of the Chattel report.) Over
the years the building has been used as a dance hall, restaurant, meeting hall, theater, dance
studio, and church. (See pp. 9-11 in the Bertrando report and the chronology of events in the
Chattel report.)
Historic or Architectural Significance
On September 25, 2000, on a vote of 4 to 2, the CHC determined that the structure at 811 El
Capitan is historically and architecturally significant based on Historic Resource criteria outlined
in the City's Historical Preservation Program Guidelines (Attachment 7), specifically:
Architectural Style, I.2. and 1.3: The building's architectural style, characterized by redwood log
3-2
Council Agenda Report—811 El Capitan
Appeal of CHC action
Page 3
siding, lamella roof and local stone chimney, was and is a locally rare example of this eclectic,
vernacular building style.
Environmental Design Continuity, VA: The building has symbolic importance to the community
as a conspicuous and widely recognized landmark and helps establish a sense of time and place.
Historical Context, VIII.2: The building is associated with 1930s and 1940s San Luis Obispo
cultural development (dance hall, restaurant, receptions, and community events) at the edge of
the City and along a highway corridor.
Conclusion: CHC members all acknowledged that the property at 811 EI Capitan does not meet
the specific criteria for listing on the either the National or State Register of Historic Places.
Conversely,the historic resource criteria in the City's Historical Preservation Program Guidelines
are very broad in nature, designed to enable local listing even for structures that meet none of the
criteria for State or National listing. While the broadness of the local criteria effectively
maximizes opportunities for preservation of structures deemed to be locally significant, it also
increases the amount of subjectivity involved in determining significance.
The Betrando report suggests 7 local criteria that might be applicable to the Log Cabin structure.
The appellant agrees with the Chattel report, which concludes that the structure does not really
satisfy any of the local criteria. The CHC identified 3 criteria which a majority of members felt
were applicable. Council findings for approval or denial of the appeal should be based on the
historic resource criteria in the City's Historical Preservation Program Guidelines (Attachment 7).
Contributing Properties List
On a separate motion, approved 5 to 1, the Cultural Heritage Committee recommended that the
City Council add property located at 811 El Capitan to the contributing properties list, based on
the findings of historic and architectural significance outlined above.
City Council approval is required to add properties to the master list of historic resources and to the
list of contributing properties. The contributing properties list contains about 400 properties,most
of which are houses within designated historic districts. Contributing properties consist of
structures, gardens or other features which are at least 50 years old and which contribute to the
architectural or historical character of their neighborhood. City policies encourage their
preservation.Both contributing and master list properties are considered"historic."
The letter of appeal requests that the Council recognize that the Committee's recommendation is
inconsistent with established policy. Specifically, a plain reading of the City's Historical
Preservation Program Guidelines would indicate that contributing properties must be located
within historical preservation districts (Attachment 8). The property at 811 El Capitan is not
within a historical district. The guidelines do not explain how to add a property to the list of
contributing properties without changing historical preservation district boundaries.
3-3
Council Agenda Report—811 EI Capitan
Appeal of CHC action
Page 4
When the City Council first created historical districts, all contributing properties were located
within those districts. However, since that time, the Council and the CHC have determined that
the guidelines do not preclude contributing properties being located outside historic districts. As an
example, 1408 Johnson Avenue,which is not within a historical preservation district,was added to
the contributing properties list in 1997
Thus, there are three ways a historic property can be formally recognized: 1) adding it to the
Master List; 2) designating it as contributing and including it within a historic district; and 3)
designating it contributing,but outside a historic district. This latter approach is appropriate for
older, historic buildings which are located outside of historic neighborhoods,in outlying areas of
the City,or which are not logically part of a contiguous historic neighborhood.
The Cultural Heritage Committee believed this third option,although not clearly spelled out in the
guidelines, wasappropriate in this case and that it was a logical extension of the City's historic
preservation policies. This approach is also consistent with General Plan policy which states:
"Historical resources should be identified,preserved,and where necessary and possible,restored."
The CHC has included updating the Guidelines in their work program. Clarifying the process for
designating contributing properties will be addressed in this update.
Conclusion: If the building is determined to have historic or architectural significance,it could be
included on the contributing properties list, despite the fact that it is outside a designated historical
preservation district.If the building is not determined to have historic or architectural significance it
would not qualify for listing.
Environmental Review
In determining whether a project will have a significant impact to a historic resource under the
California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA), there is a two-part test: (1) Is the resource
"historically significant" and (2) would the project cause a "substantial adverse change" in the
significance of the resource?(CEQA Section 15064.5)
Designating the property at 811 El Capitan "a historically significant property at the local levee'
would satisfy the first part of the test. Removal of the historic resource, as proposed by the
project, would constitute a substantial adverse change. Therefore, preparation of an
Environmental Impact Report would be required. No other aspects of the project would trigger
the need to prepare an EIR.
Preparation of an EIR would not be necessary if:
A. the property is not found to be historically significant and,therefore, not placed on the list
of contributing properties; or
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Council Agenda Report—811 EI Capitan
Appeal of CHC action
Page 5
B. the project is redesigned to retain and refurbish the building, consistent with the Secretary
of Interior's standards for treatment and rehabilitation of historic buildings.
Conclusion: If the structure at 811 El Capitan is not a historic resource, there is no
environmental impact associated with moving, salvage and/or demolition. If the structure is a
historic resource,then demolition or relocation is considered a substantial adverse change, which
would require preparation of an Environmental Impact Report.
Before approving a project on this site that involves demolishing or removing a designated
historic resource,the Council, after considering the final EIR, would have to adopt a Statement of
Overriding Considerations, identifying the specific project benefits that override the significant
adverse impact.
Demolition Regulations and Architectural Review
If the Council finds the building not to have historic or architectural significance, the Chief
Building Official could issue a demolition permit, providing the building has been advertised as
available for moving for a period of 90 days, and providing the applicant submits photo
documentation of the building. Redevelopment of the site will still require ARC and
environmental review.
If the Council determines the structure has historic or architectural significance, the demolition
request is referred to the Architectural Review Commission with a record of Council's findings
and the EIR that would be required in this case. To approve the demolition request, Chapter
114.2 of the Demolition Regulations requires the ARC to find that:
A. "the proposed replacement structure is as, or more compatible with neighboring
development than the existing structure, consistent with ARC guidelines; and
B. "either the condition of the structure poses a threat to the health, safety or welfare of the
community, residents or people living or working on or near the site, or the applicant has
submitted written documentation that it is financially infeasible to rehabilitate the
structure or preserve the historic nature of the site."
CONCURRENCES
On September 25, 2000, the CHC determined that the structure at 811 El Capitan is historically
and architecturally significant based on historic resource criteria outlined in the City's Historic
Preservation Program Guidelines, as specifically discussed above. (Also see Attachments 6& 7.)
Committee members discussed historic documentation in the Bertrando report,the Chattel report,
and in correspondence from historian Bill Cattaneo (Attachment 9.). Most committee members
3-5
Council Agenda Report—811 El Capitan
Appeal of CHC action
Page 6
felt that while the building was not a "high style" building, it was a community landmark,
symbolic of the cultural development at the edge of the City and was architecturally distinctive.
FISCAL IlVIPACT
No significant fiscal impact is anticipated as a result of action taken on this appeal.
ALTERNATIVES
1. Adopt a resolution upholding the appeal and finding that the structure at 811 El Capitan
does not meet criteria in the Historical Preservation Program Guidelines for historic listing
and therefore is not eligible for inclusion on the Contributing Properties List.
2. Continue the item for additional information or study, and specify the additional
information or analysis needed. There is no mandated deadline for action on this item.
ATTACHMENTS
Attachment 1: Vicinity map and project plans
Attachment 2: Draft resolution denying the appeal
Attachment 3: Draft resolution upholding the appeal
Attachment 4: Appellant's statement
Attachment 5: CHC staff report
Attachment 6: Minutes of the CHC 9/25/00 meeting
Attachment 7: Excerpts from the City's Historical Preservation Program Guidelines
Attachment 8: Map of the City's Historical Preservation Districts
Attachment 9: Memo to CHC including correspondence from Bill Cattaneo
Available in the Council Reading File*:
1. Cultural Resource Inventory,prepared by Bertrando and Bertrando Research Consultants;
January 10,2000; P#40-=041008
2. Letter from Chattel Architecture, Planning &Preservation, Inc., dated September 7, 2000,
assessing the subject property's historic resource eligibility
3. Memorandum from Chattel Architecture, Planning &Preservation, Inc., dated September
18,2000,providing additional research information
* Copies also provided to individual City Council members, the City Attorney, CAO, Assistant
CAO, City Clerk, and the Clerk's information counter
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Resolution No. (2000 Series)
Appeal Denied: 811 EI Capitan ATTACHMENT 2
Page I
RESOLUTION NO. (2000 Series)
A RESOLUTION OF THE COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF SAN LUIS OBISPO
DENYING AN APPEAL OF THE CULTURAL HERITAGE COMMITTEE'S
ACTION, THEREBY FINDING PROPERTY AT 811 EL CAPITAN TO BE A
HISTORIC RESOURCE AND ADDING THIS PROPERTY TO THE LIST OF
CONTRIBUTING HISTORIC PROPERTIES
(GP/R/ER 108-00)
WHEREAS, on September 25, 2000, the Cultural Heritage Committee conducted a
public hearing and, based on the documentation and public testimony presented, found the
property at 811 EI Capitan to be historically and architecturally significant and recommended
that the City Council add the property to the list of contributing historical properties; and
WHEREAS, Carol Florence, Oasis Associates, Inc., filed an appeal of the Cultural
Heritage Committee's action on behalf of the property owner, Matt Quaglino, on September 26,
2000; and
WHEREAS, the City Council conducted a public hearing on November 21, 2000, and
has considered testimony of the appellant, interested parties, the records of the Cultural Heritage
Committee hearings and action, and the evaluation and recommendation of staff, and
BE IT RESOLVED,by the Council of the City of San Luis Obispo as follows:
SECTION 1. Findings. That this Council, after consideration of the Cultural Heritage
Committee's recommendations, the appellants' statement, staff recommendations and reports
thereof, makes the following findings regarding the property's historic significance pursuant to
the historic resource criteria outlined in the City's Historical Preservation Program Guidelines:
1. Architectural Style, I.2. and 1.3: The building's architectural style, characterized
by redwood log siding, lamella roof and local stone chimney, was and is a locally rare
3-13
Resolution No. (2000 Series) ATTACHMENT 2
Appeal Denied: 811 EI Capitan
Page 2
example of this eclectic, vernacular building style.
2. Environmental Design Continuity, V.1: The building has symbolic importance to
the community as a conspicuous and widely recognized landmark and helps establish a
sense of time and place.
3. Historical Context, VIII.2: The building is associated with 1930s and 1940s San
Luis Obispo cultural development (dance hall, restaurant, receptions, and community
events) at the edge of the City and along a highway corridor.
SECTION 2. Addition to the List of Contributing Historical Properties. The following
property is hereby added to the City's list of contributing historical properties, located outside of
an established historical preservation district:
811 El Capitan(The Log Cabin), Ca. 1931.
(Legal Description: Assessor's Parcel Number 053-411-010; Portion of Lots 103 and
104, San Luis Obispo Suburban Tract)
SECTION 3. Appeal Denied. The appeal of the Cultural Heritage Committee's action is
hereby denied.
On motion of , seconded by
and on the following roll call vote:
AYES:
NOES:
ABSENT:
3-14
Resolution No. 0000 Series) AnA�H�E Q
Appeal Denied: 811 El Capitan
Page 3
The foregoing resolution was passed and adopted this=day of.,_ _. , 2000.
Mayor Allen Settle
ATTEST;
Lee.Pri_e, City Clerk
APP &OVED AS TO FORM:
City Attorney Jeffrey G. Jorgensen
3-15
Resolution No. (2000 Series) ATTACHMENT 3
Appeal Upheld: 811 El Capitan
Page 1
RESOLUTION NO. (2000 Series)
A RESOLUTION OF THE COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF SAN LUIS OBISPO
UPHOLDING AN APPEAL OF THE CULTURAL HERITAGE COMMITTEE'S
ACTION,THEREBY NOT FINDING PROPERTY AT 811 EL CAPITAN TO BE A
HISTORIC RESOURCE AND NOT ADDING THIS PROPERTY TO THE LIST OF
CONTRIBUTING HISTORIC PROPERTIES
(GP/R/ER 108-00)
WHEREAS, on September 25, 2000, the Cultural Heritage Committee conducted a
public hearing and, based on the documentation and public testimony presented, found the
property at 811 El Capitan to be historically and architecturally significant and recommended
that the City Council add the property to the list of contributing historical properties; and
WHEREAS, Carol Florence, Oasis Associates, Inc., filed an appeal of the Cultural
Heritage Committee's action on behalf of the property owner, Matt Quaglino, on September 26,
2000; and
WHEREAS, the City Council conducted a public hearing on November 21, 2000, and
has considered testimony of the appellant, interested parties, the records of the Cultural Heritage
Committee hearings and action, and the evaluation and recommendation of staff, and
BE IT RESOLVED,by the Council of the City of San Luis Obispo as follows:
SECTION 1. Findings. That this Council, after consideration of the Cultural Heritage
Committee's recommendations, the appellants' statement, staff recommendations and reports
thereof,makes the following findings:
1. The property at 811 El Capitan is not historically or architecturally significant
because it does not adequately satisfy any of the historic resource criteria outlined in the
City's Historical Preservation Program Guidelines.
3-16
Resolution No. (2000 Series) ATTACHMENT 3
Appeal Upheld: 811 El Capitan
Page 2
2. Property at 811 El Capitan is not eligible for inclusion on the contributing
historical properties list because it does not adequately satisfy the historic resource
criteria outlined in the City's Historical Preservation Program Guidelines, specifically:
a. Architectural Style, I: The building is not a pure expression of a traditional style. It is
a false log cabin with a lamella roof. The building is not an example of a once popular
style. The building's alterations have undermined its original integrity.
b. Environmental Design Continuity, V: The spatial relationships between the building
and its site, environment, and setting has been much altered throughout its life. It has
never had strong associations with these elements, particularly the street and the creek. It
is not a contributor to the continuity of a district or geographically definable area.
c. Historic Context, VIII: The building is not associated with nor a prime illustration of
predominant patterns of political, social, economic, cultural, medical, educational,
governmental,military, industrial, or religious history.
(The Council may specify additional findings using the criteria in Attachment 7 and
analysisprovided in the Chattel report.)
SECTION 2. Appeal Upheld. The appeal of the Cultural Heritage Committee's action is
hereby upheld.
On motion of , seconded by
and on the following roll call vote:
AYES:
NOES:
ABSENT:
3-17
Resolution Nb. (2000 Series)
Appeal Upheld: 811 El Capitan ATTACHMENT 3
Page 3
The foregoing resolution was passed and adopted this day of __ _ _ , 2000.
Mayor Allen Settle
ATTEST:
Led Price; City Clerk
APPROVED AS TO FORM--
City Attorney Jeffrey G. Jorgensen.
3-18
CITY OF SAN LUIS OBISPO 4
0a515 OCT 4
28
LAND5CAPE
A c rI i T e c T u E COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENt
AND PLANNING
03 October 2000
City Council Members
c/o Mr.John Mandeville,Long Range Planning Manager
City of San Luis Obispo
990 Pahn Street
San Luis Obispo,CA 93401 via courier
RE:THE ROADHOUSE MIXED-USE DEVELOPMENT
File No.A108-00-811 El Capitan Way @ Broad Street,San Luis Obispo, CA
Appeal ojCultural Heritage Committee's Historic Resource Determination
Mesdames and Messieurs,
We are in receipt of correspondence from John Mandeville dated September 14 and September 26, page
one and two, respectively reiterating the Cultural Heritage Committee's (Committee) determination
regarding the historical significance of the above-mentioned (811 El Capitan Way) structure. Please note
that the correspondence fails to mention that the Committee is also recommending adding this property to
the city's contributing property list. Pursuant to the determination and recommendation of the Committee,
the applicant is aggrieved by this decision and therefore,respectfully requests that the City Council review
the previously submitted information, take additional testimony by the applicant and/or applicant's
consultants,and deny the Committee's recommendation.
The Committee determined that the structure was significant based upon certain criteria in the City's
Historic Preservation Program Guidelines. The Committee also agreed that the property did not appear to
be eligible for the National Register of Historic Places, California Register of Historical Resources
(California Register) or the city's master list. As we can find no mechanism within the local ordinance to
classify the property as a "contributing"property outside of a designated district, we are perplexed by the
Committee's decision.We request that the City Council recognize that the Committee's recommendation is
flawed and without merit, because the recommendation is inconsistent with established policy. We
therefore request that the Council deny the application.
On August 9, 2000, the applicant met with Ms. Jeanan Saunders, California Environmental Quality Act
(CEQA) specialist and staff to the State Office of Historic Preservation. Ms. Saunders found that the
building clearly did not warrant listing in the California Register, and cited among other things the
numerous alterations which severely affected the integrity of the building,the fact that it is not associated
with any significant events or persons, and that it is not architecturally or archaeologically significant As
stated,the Committee agreed that the property did not appear eligible for listing in the California Register.
We bring this particular piece of information to the attention of the Council, as preparation of the Initial
Study under CEQA has yet to be completed. If in fact Council desires to designate the building as a
contributing property, we ask that you concurrently find the building not to be construed or otherwise
treated as a historical resource under CEQA,because locally designated properties are automatically listed
in the California Register. If the property is locally designated, it raises its significance to listing in the
California Register.For this project, its listing in the California Register would necessitate the preparation
of a focused EIR to address project impacts on cultural resources.
805.541.4509
FAX 805.546.0525
3427 MIGUELITO CT
SAN LUIS OBISPO
CALIFORNIA 93401
3-19
OASIS ASSOCIATES,INC.
04 October 2000
The Roadhouse Mixed Use Development-Cultural Resources ATTACHMENT. 4
Page 2 of 2
Lastly;to provide the Council Members with an understanding of the project's recent history, attached is a
synopsis of the events to date. We want to take this opportunity to express that this project was designed to
acknowledge the city's stated goals to more efficiently utilize parcels within the city limits,create balanced
developments that provide for a mix of commercial and residential uses that are compatible with
neighboring uses, while complying with the city's environmental goals and policies. We look forward to
the opportunity to discuss the project details with the City Council. Thank you for your time and careful
consideration.
VFlorence,
TES,INC.
Agent
COVEY III
Attachment
cc: M.Quaglino
00-0026 mst corr/cmf
C.•I Roadhouselchcappeal2.doc
3-20
ENATTACHMENT 4
J A 5 I 5
LANDSCAPE
ARCHITECTURE
AND PLANNING
THE ROADHOUSE MIXED USE DEVELOPMENT
PROTECT HISTORY
03 October 2000
December 1999 Applicant discusses project with city planning staff and is
advised to perform an historical analysis of the building and
project site.Applicant is given a list of consultants,and
subsequently retains Bertrando and Bertrando.
10 January 2000 Applicant receives Cultural Resource Inventory of the Log
Cabin Parcel(Bertrando and Bertrando).
8 February Applicant attends pre-application meeting with city staff to
discuss preliminary project objectives,determine level of
processing and required technical and environmental analysis.
28 June Applicant submits General Plan Amendment/Rezoning and
Development Plan application with supplement including
discussion of environmental aspects,impacts and mitigation
measures.Traffic Engineering Analysis and Cultural Resource
Inventory appended.
01 August Applicant retains Chattel Architecture,Planning&
Preservation to prepare additional historical research as
recommended by Bertrando and Bertrando report.
e
9 August , Applicant meets with State Office of Historic Preservation
California Environmental Quality Act administrator,city staff,
and Chattel Architecture staff on-site.
16 August Project is reviewed by the Airport Land Use Commission(ALUC).
Applicant receives comments from Public Works,
Transportation,Building(Site Grading),Utilities,&Fire and
initiates additional work effort to prepare response to
comments.
28 August Applicant prepares Acoustical Analysis(Krause Engineering
Services)incorporating recommendations from the ALUC.
7 September Applicant submits Chattel Architecture's historic eligibility
report to staff.Chattel determines,based on National Register,
California Register,and specifically local criteria,that the
property does not meet the criteria and therefore the building
and its associations do not appear to be eligible for local
landmark designation.
25 September Cultural Heritage Committee reviews historic documentation
and makes recommendations to the City Council.
805.541.4509 C.IRoadhouselProjecthistory.doc
FAX 805.546.0525
3427 MIGUELITO CT
SAN LUIS OBISPO
CALIFORNIA 93401 3-2
m,.aae.cws M7
MEMORANDUM ATTACHMENT 5
CITY OF SAN LUIS OBISPO
TO: Cultural Heritage Committee
VIA: John Mandeville, Long Range Planning Manager
FROM: Whitney McIlvaine and Jeff Hook, Associate Planners
MEETING DATE: September 25, 2000
SUBJECT: Agenda Item# 1: 811 El Capitan;
City Application#: GP/R 108-00
Situation
The City has received an application for rezoning and redevelopment of a site at the corner of
Broad Street and El Capitan. The site is developed with a single structure currently being used
by the House of Prayer. As part of the property's development, the applicant would like to
relocate or demolish the House of Prayer building, sometimes referred to as the "Log Cabin
Theater." Under the Demolition Regulations, the Cultural Heritage Committee must determine
whether the structure proposed for demolition has"historic, architectural or aesthetic significance
to the community." Two documents have been prepared to assist in this determination: (1) a
cultural resource inventory prepared by Bertrando and Bertrando, and (2) a historic resource
eligibility report prepared by Chattel Architecture, Planning, and Preservation Inc. These are
included with each committee member's packet and available for review at the Community
Development Department.
•�p 5:w
H�
f •.1
Data Summary
Applicant: Matt Quaglino
Project Address: 811 and 903 El Capitan e
Zoning: C-S (Service Commercial) and R-2
(Medium-Density Residential)
General Plan: Services and Manufacturing
and Medium-Density Residential
Site Description/ Setting
71
The site is located at the corner of El Capitan Broad Street entry and side elevation
and Broad Street. It is comprised of a vacant
3-22
CHC Memo for 811 and 903 El Capitan ATTACHMENT 5
Page 2
lot adjacent to a residential subdivision and a larger lot developed with a building, currently
occupied by the House of Prayer. The site wraps around another lot developed with a discount
carpet store. A tributary to the East Fork of San Luis Creek runs along the southerly property
boundary. Please refer to the attached topographical survey.
Project Description
The project proposes construction of two buildings. Building "A" would be two stories with
approximately 13,871 square feet of commercial space and located parallel to Broad Street.
Building "B" would be three stories with approximately 7,000 square feet of commercial space
and 14,000 square feet of residential (apartments) space. Building "B" would be perpendicular to
Broad Street. The existing structure would be removed. Please refer to the attached project plans.
Demolition Regulations
If the CHC determines the structure has no historical, architectural or aesthetic significance, it
shall refer the demolition to the ARC with a recommendation to approve demolition. The
applicant will be required to advertise the structure as available for moving or salvage for a
period of 90 days prior to issuance of a demolition permit, and to provide photo documentation
of the building.
If the CHC determines the structure has historical, architectural or aesthetic significance, it shall
refer the demolition request to the ARC with a record of its findings. To approve the demolition
request, Chapter 114.2 of the Demolition Regulations requires that the ARC must then find that:
"the proposed replacement structure is as, or more compatible with neighboring
development than the existing structure, consistent with ARC guidelines; and
"either the condition of the structure poses a threat to the health, safety or welfare of the
community, residents or people living or working on or near the site, or the applicant has
submitted written documentation that it is financially infeasible to rehabilitate the
structure or preserve the historic nature of the site."
In determining significance, the Committee members should use the Council-adopted Historic
Resource Criteria for Building Evaluation and Recommendations, attached.
Environmental Review
In determining whether a project will have a significant impact to a historic resource under the
California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA), there is a two-part test: (1) Is the resource
"historically significant" and (2) would the project cause a "substantial adverse change" in the
significance of the resource?
3-23
CHC Memo for 811 and 903 El Capitan
ATTACHMENT 5
Page 3
If the structure at 811 El Capitan is not a historic resource, there is no environmental impact
associated with moving, salvage and/or demolition. If the structure is a historic resource, then
demolition or relocation is considered a substantial adverse change, which would normally
require preparation of an Environmental Impact Report.
Alternatives
After reviewing the facts, as presented in each of the reports, and testimony presented at the
meeting,take one of the following actions:
1. Find that the structure is historically, architecturally or aesthetically significant based on
the criteria outlined in the Historic Preservation Program Guidelines. The Committee should
specifically idents which of the criteria the structure satisfies.
2. Find that the structure is not historically, architecturally or aesthetically significant
because it fails to meet the criteria outlined in the Historic Preservation Program Guidelines and
list the findings.
3. Continue review with specific direction regarding the need for additional information.
Attached: Land Use/Vicinity Map
Existing and proposed site plans
Architectural plans
Historical Preservation Program historic resource criteria
Enclosed: Historic Resource Evaluation prepared by Chattel Architecture*
Cultural Resource Inventory prepared by Bertrando and Bertrando*
Please return copies of both reports to staff after the meeting.
A/L/chc/lopabin.rpt
3-24
Draft ATTACHMENT 6
MINUTES
SAN LUIS OBISPO CULTURAL HERITAGE COMMITTEE
Regular Meeting of Monday, September 25, 2000
The meeting convened at 5:30 p.m. in the Council Hearing Room (Room 9), San Luis Obispo
City Hall, 990 Palm Street.
ROLL CALL
Present: Chairperson Bob Schrage, Paula Juelke Carr, Margot McDonald, Steve McMasters,
Bob Pavlik, Tom Wheeler and Matt Whittlesey.
Absent: None.
Staff: Jeff Hook and Whitney McIlvaine, Associate Planners
APPROVAL OF MINUTES: On a motion by Committee member McDonald, seconded by
Committee member McMasters, the minutes of the regular meeting of August 28, 2000 were
approved as submitted on a 5-0 vote (Committee members Carr and Whittlesey arrived late).
PUBLIC HEARING ITEM:
1. GP/R/ER 108-00: Review historic documentation and determine historic significance
of the former "Log Cabin Theater" in connection with its proposed demolition and the
development of a new commercial project, located at 811 and 903 El Capitan. Covey III,
applicant.
Chairman Schrage introduced the item and stepped down due to a potential conflict of interest.
Vice-chairperson Pavlik asked staff to present the staff report. Whitney McIlvaine, Associate
Planner, presented the staff report and outlined cultural resource inventories prepared by
Bertrando and Bertrando and by Chattel Architecture, Planning and Preservation, Inc. She
explained that the Committee was being asked to: 1) determine whether the building was
architecturally, historically or aesthetically significant, and if so, 2) to recommend the City
Council add the property to the Contributing or Master List of Historic Resources.
Carol Florence, applicant's representative, provided background on the preparation of the
cultural resource inventories and introduced consultants Robert Chattel and Francesca Smith.
The consultants summarized their qualifications and methodology, and explained that, based on
their findings, the building did not meet eligibility criteria for federal, state or local historic
listing.
Committee members discussed historic documentation in the Bertrando report, Chattel report
and in correspondence from historian Bill Cattaneo. Most committee members felt that while
3-25
ATTACHMENT 6
CHC Minutes, Regular Meeting of September 25, 2000
Page 2
the building was not a "high style" building, it was a community landmark, symbolic of the
cultural development at the edge of the City and was architecturally distinctive. After lengthy
discussion and on a motion by Committee member Carr, seconded by Committee member
McMasters, the Committee determined that the structure was historically, architecturally or
aesthetically significant based on Historic Resource criteria outlined in the City's Historic
Preservation Program Guidelines, specifically:
Architectural Style, I.2. and I.3: The building's architectural style, characterized by redwood
log siding, lamella roof and local stone chimney, was and is a locally rare example of this
eclectic, vernacular building style.
Environmental Design Continuity, V.1: The building has symbolic importance to the
community as a conspicuous and widely recognized landmark and helps establish a sense of
time and place.
Historical Context, VIH.2: The building is associated with 1930s and 1940s San Luis Obispo
cultural development (dance hall, restaurant, receptions, and community events) at the edge of
the City and along a highway corridor.
The motion carried, 4-2 (Committee members Pavlik and McDonald voting no).
On a motion by Committee member Wheeler, seconded by Committee member Whittlesey, the
Committee recommended that the City Council add property located at 811 and 903 El Capitan
to the Contributing Properties list, based on the findings outlined above. The motion carried,
5-1 (Committee member McDonald voting no).
Chairperson Schrage returned.
3-26
B. WHAT PROPERTIES ARE HISTORICALLY IMPORTANT? ATTACHMENT 7
There are two types of historic properties in San Luis Obispo:
Individual buildings that have significant historic or architectural value are
called "Historical Resources."
-� Buildings in older neighborhoods that contribute to the character of that
neighborhood are called "contributing" structures.
Owners of these properties may be eligible for benefits and services described in
the next section. Additional information about historic properties is presented
below.
1. Historical Resources
In 1981 a citizens committee, appointed by the City Council, surveyed the older
buildings in town -- those built before 1941. After studying the history and
architecture of these buildings, the City Council approved a listing of properties
that are considered Historical Resources. There are five classes of resources. The
definition of each class and the "master list" of historical resources are included
in Appendix B of these guidelines.
The city is continuing to study the history of its older neighborhoods, so more �.
historic sites may be added to the list. Check with the Community Development
Department for the most up-to-date listing. Also, property owners may conduct their
own research and ask the City Council to add their property to the list. More
information about this procedure is included in Appendix C.
1. Historical Preservation Districts
In 1987, the City Council created three Historical Preservation Districts. The
purpose of the districts is to identify older parts of San Luis Obispo that exhibit
an important part of our community's history. The districts are shown on Figure #1
and include the downtown business district and parts of the older residential
neighborhoods that surround it.
--�! Buildings within each district have been classified as "contributing° or
"non-contributing." Contributing buildings add to the historic character of the
neighborhood. Non-contributing buildings are typically newer structures that do not
support the prevailing historic character of the area.
The boundaries of historic districts can change over time. Check with the Community
Development Department for the most up-to-date map. Citizens may ask the City
Council to create new historical districts or change the boundaries of existing
ones. Information about this procedure is included in Appendix E. .
3-27
2
ATTACHMENT 7
City of San Luis Obispo Cultural Heritage committee
DELINEATION OF HISTORIC RESOURCE CRITERIA
FOR BUILDING EVALUATION AND RECOMNMNDATIONS
ARCHITECTURAL CRITERIA
I. Style
Describes form of building such as size, structural shape and details within
that form (i.e., arrangement of windows and doors, ornamentation, etc.)
Building style will be evaluated as a measure of:
1. The relative purity of a traditional style (as compared to building styles
in San Luis Obispo);
2. Rarity of existence at any time in the locale; and/or current rarity
although the structure reflects a once popular style;
3. Traditional, vernacular and/or eclectic influences that represent a
particular social milieu and period of the community; and/or the uniqueness
of hybrid styles and how these styles are put together.
4. The degree to which the structure has maintained its integrity (i.e.,
assessment of alterations and structural condition, if .known).
I1 Design
Describes the architectural concept of a structure and the quality of artistic
merit and craftmanship of the individual parts. Reflects how well a particular
style or combination of styles are expressed through compatibility and detailing
of elements. Also, suggests degree to which the architect (i.e.,
carpenter-builder) accurately interpreted and conveyed the style(s).
Building design will be evaluated as a measure of:
1. Notable attractiveness with aesthetic appeal because of its uniqueness,
artistic merit, details and craftsmanship;
2. Overall attractiveness because of craftsmanship and aesthetic value, though
not necessarily unique;
3. An expression of interesting details and eclecticism among
carpenter-builders, although the craftsmanship and artistic quality may not
be superior.
3-28
ATTACHMENT 7
III. Age
Age is a measure of how relatively old a structure is in the context of the
history of San Luis Obispo, primarily Anglo-American history (circa 1850). (See
Scale of Building Age).
CRITERIA FOR BUILDING EVALUATIONS
IV. Architect
Describes the professional (an individual or firm) directly responsible for the
building design and plans of the structure.
The architect will be evaluated as a reference to:
1. A master architect (e.g., Wright).
2. A known architect who made significant contributions to the state or region
(e.g., Julia Morgan).
3. An architect who, in terms of craftsmanship, made significant contributions
to San Luis Obispo (e.g., Abrahams who, according to local sources,
designed the house at 810 Osos - Frank Avila's father's home - built
between 1927 - 30).
4. An early architect who is otherwise of no special significance but can be
identified as a professional (e.g., pioneer architects of the region as
confirmed by AIA archival membership records of California and the Central
Coast).
V. Environmental Design Continuity
Describes the inter-relationship of structures and their relationship to a
common environment. Refers to the continuity, spatial relationship, and visual
character of a street, neighborhood, or area.
Environmental design continuity will be evaluated as a measure of the:
1. Symbolic importance of a structure to the community and the degree to which
it serves as a conspicuous and pivotal landmark (i.e., easily accessible to
the public, helps to establish a sense of time and place).
2. Compatibility of a structure with neighboring structures in its setting on
the basis of period, style (form, height, roof lines), design elements,
landscapes, and natural features; and how these combine together to create
an integral cultural, historic, or stylistic setting.
3. Similarity to and/or compatibility of a structure with its neighboring
structures which, collectively, although of no particular aesthetic value,
combine to .form a geographically definable area with its own distinctive
character.
3-29
ATTACHMENT 7
HISTORICAL CRITERIA
VI. History - Person
Describes a person, group, organization, or institution that has been connected
with the structure, either intimately or secondarily, for at least two
generations (i.e., 40 years).
Historical person will be evaluated as a measure of the degree to which a person
or group was:
1. Significant to the community as a public leader (i.e., mayor, congressman,
etc.) or for his or her fame and outstanding recognition - locally,
regionally, or nationally.
2. Significant to the community as a public servant who has made early,
unique, or outstanding contributions to important local affairs or
institutions (i.e., councilmen, educators, medical professionals,
clergymen, railroad officials).
3. Contributions which, though minor, directly or indirectly, had a beneficial
effect on the community (i.e., firemen, law enforcement officers, postal
workers, businessmen/shopkeepers, city employees, etc.).
VII. History - Event
Associated with a social, political, economic, governmental, educational or
other institutional event that has been important to the community.
Historical event will be evaluated as a measure of:
1. A landmark, famous, or first-of-its-kind event for the city - regardless of
whether the impact of the event spread beyond the city.
2. A relatively unique or interesting contribution to the city (i.e., the Ah
Louis Store as the center for Chinese-American cultural activities in early
San Luis Obispo history).
3. A contribution which, though minor, nonetheless was important to the
community (i.e., local interest groups); or, alternatively, a unique or
interesting contribution only loosely connected with the structure, object,
site, or district.
VIII. History-Context
Associated with and also a prime illustration of predominant patterns of
political, social, economic, cultural, medical, educational, governmental,
military, industrial, or religious history.
Historical context will be evaluated as a measure of the degree to which it
reflects:
3-30
ATTACHMENT 7
1. Early, first, or major patterns of local history, regardless of whether the
historical effects go beyond the city level, that are intimately connected
with the building (i.e., County Museum).
2. Secondary patterns of local history but closely associated with the
building (i.e., Park Hotel).
3. Secondary patterns of local history but loosely associated with the.
building.
Historical context will also be evaluated on the basis of:
4. Whether or not a structure occupies its original site and/or whether or not
the original foundation has been changed, if known.
II
3-31
City of San Luis Obispo ATrANMEW s
HISTORIC DISTRICTS
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3-32
ATTACHMENT 9
illl!Iiliil���'� �III�IIIIIII VIII
MEMORANDUM
CITY OF SAN LUIS OBISPO
TO: Cultural Heritage Committee
FROM: Jeff Hook
DATE: September 25, 2000
SUBJECT: Item #1: Bill Cattaneo's comments on the review of historic documentation
for the former "Log Cabin Theater", located at 811 and 903 El Capitan.
Although recently moved to Kentucky, historian Bill Cattaneo continues to subscribe to local
newspapers, produce his "Our Town San Luis Obispo" program and take an active interest in
San Luis Obispo events. On reading of an article in the Tribune on August 7, 2000, Mr.
Cattaneo contacted staff to receive more information. At his request, he reviewed the historic
inventory by Betsy Bertando and sent the attached comments on the Log Cabin Theater, with
the intent they would be forwarded to the CHC for consideration at tonight's hearing.
Attachments
c: Whitney McDvaine
John Mandeville
Jh/L: mandenmem
3-33
I Jeff Hook- Log Cabin Page
From: <WLCattaneo@aol.com> ATTACHMENT 9
To: <JHOOK@ci.san-luis-obispo.ca.us>
Date: 9/24/00 3:21 PM
Subject: Log Cabin
Jeff,
I reviewed the a ceCultural Resource Inventory of the Log Cabin Parcel&
prepared by Betsy Bertrando.
Without referring to and evaluating specific sections of her document, I will
stand by the contents of my 18 September 2000 letter written to you,
regarding the Log Cabin.
With regard to the Cultural Heritage Committee meeting scheduled for
tomorrow, during which the Log Cabin will be discussed, I would recommend to
the CHC that they ask for and require detailed historical research on: 1) the
biographies of James and John Vail (ex U.S. Treasury agent) and 2)the
various community events, such as weddings, wedding celebrations and various
anniversaries held in the Log Cabin.
In my opinion the Log Cabin shares two vital similarities with Mission San
Luis Obispo: both are absolutely unique structures and both have played a
significant role in the family/community history of San Luis Obispo (city and
rural).
If the Log Cabin is demolished or even moved from its present site, for many
years people driving by will think to themselves: & ceThe old Log Cabin used to
be there.Too bad they tore it down.&
In your 20 years in San Luis Obispo,you have already witnessed many historic
losses.
San Luis Obispo today finds itself in an ironic time in its history: As it
attempts to become a more beautiful city through modem developments, it
finds itself facing the loss of its early historical structures.
I point to the decimation of the Little Italy residential neighborhood in the
name of commercial development as an example.
Thanks for sending Betsy& TM's report, which I found interesting and well done
for the most part.
Bill
3-34
Jeff Hook- RE-• Log CabrnFrom: "Bill Cattaneo" <cattaneo@bellsouth.net>
To: "Jeff Hook" <JHOOK@ci.san-luis-obispo.ca.us> ATTACHMENT 9
Date: 9/22/00 11:19AM
Subject: RE: Log Cabin theatre
Jeff,
As I mentioned in my letter to you,the Log Cabin is not the prettiest thing
in town, but I disagree with Matt Quaglino's second consultant, saying that
the Log Cabin definitely has local historical value, given that it was used
by so many families for weddings etc. In fact, some of Matt's relatives, the
Mainini family,almost certainly attended some of those local functions. Does
the Log Cabin bunaglow complex still exist? The Log Cabin does have
significant historical value based on the its association with the Vail
family and their legal connection with Prohibition in the person of John
Vail. If Chattel did not mention John Vail's biography and service with the
United States Army and the United States Treasury Department, their study
could be questioned at your Monday meeting. My phone call today tells of my
problem with our fax machine (almost useless)but I may get it to work.
Bill
3-35
ATTACHMENT 9
RECEIVED
SEP 2 2 2000
Gu CITY OF SAN LUIS OBISPO
COMMUNrTY DEVELOPMENT
18 September 2000
Jeff Hook
City of San Luis Obispo
Dear Jeff,
Based on its physical exterior appearance, the Log Cabin may not be a
strong candidate for historical preservation, but I do wish to comment on
the Log Cabin article which appeared in The Tribune on 7 August 2000.
The article, authored by Shaya Mohajer,which may or may not reflect
accurately the findings of Betsy Bertrando's Cultural Resource Inventory of
the Log Cabin Parcel, contains several questionable statements.
Mohajer states: "The Log Cabin structure,which dates back to the days of
Prohibition, has undergone an historical survey describing its past and its
cultural impact on San Luis Obispo."
The Eighteenth Amendment to the Constitution, prohibiting transportation
and sale of alcoholic beverages,was ratified by the required states on 29
January 1919.
The Volttead Act, or National Prohibition Act,was passed by Congress on
70*4~ 28 October 1919. Volstead provided for enforcement of the provisions of
805-541-0282 the Eighteenth Amendment.
;Oast OA(zw beset 16103
Sas && 4 The Log Cabin was completed and opened for business on 25 April 1931.
e4&oza4z 93406
P05-544-3111
1 3-36
ATTACHMENT 9
Mohajer's claim that the Log Cabin dates back to the days of Prohibition
could lead her readers to assume that the Log Cabin was somehow
entwined with illegal alcohol for the full run of the Prohibition, rather than
the last two years of that unfortunate legal aa,which was repealed by
required state ratification of the Twenty-first Amendment to the Constitution
on 5 December 1933.
The real danger of Mohajer's comment is that it lends unwarranted support
to her references to the Log Cabin's alleged shady past.
I also question Bertrando's statement in the article,wherein she attaches a
sordid history" to the building.
There indeed may have been some verifiable illegal activities and socially
undesirable acts which took place in the Log Cabin, but the Log Cabin's
history of acceptable activities and events over the years far outweighs the
negative instances.
There is one paragraph in the Mohajer piece which is especially
questionable: "The cultural inventory of the Log Cabin found that when
the building was owned by James Vail early in the 20" century, it was
steeped in illegal activity. During Prohibition, the building served as a
speak-easy for those seeking to imbibe illegal spirits, complete with an
escape chute in case the building was raided by police."
%&A4"
805-541-0282 Mohajer again attempts to link the Log Cabin to the forces of evil through
peat O#&e &z 16103 her use of the phrase, "early in the 20'' century," forgetting to inform her
Sa*,&& 0400 readers that 1931 does not numerically equate to 1919.
'arta. 93406
805-544-3111 2 3-37
ATTACHMENT 9
�GGG
Perhaps even more questionable is the use of James Vail's name in
connection with illegal events against the Prohibition Act.
James Vail had a brother by the name of John Vail, who was not only a
Spanish-American and World War I decorated war hero but also a United
States Treasury agent, who worked his Prohibition beat in San Luis Obispo
county.
To the best of my knowledge,John Vail left the Central Coast circa 1932.
The "escape chute" referred to by Mohajer was in fact one of several devices
built into the Log Cabin's interior to provide amusement to its patrons.
There was also a fireman's pole, down which patrons could move from the
mezzanine area to the main floor.
The Log Cabin may not be beautiful,Jeff, but it at least deserves to be
looked at with respect for the many positive contributions it made to the
history of San Luis Obispo city and county.
During the late stages of World War II, when I was a newspaper carrier for
the Telegram-Tribune, my bicycle route carried me out Orcutt Road and
out the Edna Road, almost to the airport area.
7 The Log Cabin bungalow complex was one of my last deliveries, and at
80x541-0282 that time, I believe I recall a Mr. Vail who lived on the grounds and who
Peat O*w bea 16103 had a ferocious orange-colored Chow dog— fortunately tied to a great
Sam.&a 4 iron rod with a strong chain.
G�all�oz.rta 93406
8o�s4¢3»' 3 3-38
ATTACHMENT g
Sincerely,
Bill Cattaneo
451 Mallard Cieek.Road
Louisville, Kentucky 40207-5418.
80x541=0282
poet Ogee *6z 16103-
'ago""
6703'a(o"" 93406
8054¢31„ 4 3-39
l
340
MEETINGAGENDA 3
From: Dorothea J. Rhodes <slodottie@email.msn.com> DATE 04�o ITEM #
• To: <sstendahl@slocity.org>
Date: 11/6/00 9:29AM
Subject: Log Cabin I MOUNCIL O'CC9 DIR
❑r:.I DIR
C:1l.;i,J ❑FI.^.c CHIEF
City Council of [.BATT- ^:ZY ❑P':1 CIR
San Luis Obispo, ❑r v"L!CE CHF
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California TR�6uM� ❑UTIL DIR
❑PERS DIR
Dear Sirs, h1,5CO end
W. 146 IL.VAI NE
We have owned the property adjacent to the Log Cabin since 1956. We have seen the many
changes of this building, built by James B. Vail in the 1920's. Some for good and some not so good. With
all the changes of ownership and uses of this building, there has been much remodeling of the original
building. The items that made this building unique and of historical value are gone.
To preserve this building in it's present state in not in the best interest of the owner, neighbors or the
city.
We have seen the plans for the proposed new building and feel this would be an improvement to the
community and the neighbors.
Sincerely,
George AI Rhodes
Dorothea J Rhodes
Matt, this is a copy of the letter I will send, do you have any problems with it?? Is there any thing else I
could add, that you feel would help
Dottie
RECEIVED
N O V 08 2000
SLO CITY COUiVCJL
11/09/00 THU 11:13 IAA 1SU5754843U UAININUIN AJJUI. WIuu4
N, ING 1AgV�pIL���HU R CANNON, PE
DATE ��—°�� ANDaE,y� RIAM, AIA, AICP
amon ANI
ASSOCIATES
November 9,2000
COUNCIL EFIRECHIEF
R
Mayor Allen Settle s„D' IEFCouncil Member John Ewan ATTORNEY ENGINEER5Council Member Jan Marc CrLERK/ORtG CHF0 I.1G T TEAM PLANNERS Council Member David Romero Council Member Ken Schwartz1ta1Cc R t
SURVEYORS 990 Palm Street alt1c5 C'/1t(nC(
San Luis Obispo,CA 93401 VJ M eflva l n e
Re: Log Cabin Property
Dear Council Members:
As neighbors concerned with the beautification of San Luis Obispo,we are going to great
lengths to upgrade and improve the neighborhood near the Log Cabin. Therefore,I
cannot imagine what criteria would lead our city leaders to construe a former pom theatre
as historically significant.This feeble and dilapidated structure should be demolished and
forgotten. It is a blight upon the neighborhood.Its preservation is analogous to saying
that the past, however trivial,must be preserved at the expense of the future.
Imagine what this says about our community.Are we so desperate to establish historic
significance that we lower ourselves to this level?It tells the citizens of this town and of
those surrounding us that,we truly lack substantive cultural depth.
An explanation may be applicable to this perverse idea of preserving this dump.Could it
be that someone is using the preservation of this and other structures to forward an
agenda such as impeding growth?
When I built my building at 364 Pacific Street,I was forced by the ARC to recall other
industrial buildings in the area.The only building meeting that criterion is the one that
once housed Mission Dry Cleaners.This building should also be demolished to allow
new construction without further impediment from the City.I must now claim the
distinction of having preserved an architectural blemish. I do not wish to see this mistake
repeated I trust that our city council will have the wisdom and courage to say that"the
King is not wearing any clothes”and abandon any intention to acknowledgeor condone
preserving this mistake in perpetuity.
/Stffcrely,
�
364 PACIFIC STREET Michael F. 6%P. RECEIVED
SAN Luis Oenao, CA President
934n1 NOV g — 2000
NEC:pfd SLO CITY CLERK
805 544-7407
.-Ax 805 544-3863 PROVYUINr SERVICE SINCt 1976
Nov-01-00 10:08A P-02
ME JGoo AGENDA
o q
DATE—!. 2 ITEM #.
2083 Pct *wff10 !91`OUNCIL O:UTIL
R
HCAO ❑
0 OHIEF
Q��TTDRNEY C
CLERKIORIG ❑ C'F
❑MGMT TEAM ❑ R
'Tuesday,October 31,2000 g,f�Zu3vNtz' ORQ CaA,_F_?i!; ❑ IR
Honorable Mayor Allen Settle d iz•Whi5 e✓Iand
Ciry Council Members y,(. �1cslJai4P�
990 Palm Street
San Luis Obispo, Cx 93401
Honorable mayor,city council Members
Again,the Council has an opportunity to greatly enhance a gTatcway inti
the City of San Luis ()bispo.'1'he project on the southeast corner highway 227
and Irl Captain Way would be such an opportunity.
The existing building (formally the X-rated movie house) should not be
considered an historic structure.J oat because it is old does not qualify it a$ an
historic building.The area needs to be enhanced,not left old an dilapidated.
Do not let this opportunity to create something;superior, for the people
of the City,slip through your fingers.
Sincere ,
oe
Gar oldg;rafer 11
Managing General Partner
2083 Partnership
RECEIVED
N O V 0 1 1999
SLO CITY COUNCIL
(W6)fid.�.2tiN2
I TING AGENDA
DATE 11-2-00 ITEM #
CHARLES L. SENN
178 BROAD STREET, SAN LUIS OBISPO, CA 93405
November 1, 2000 ilm�
EXCouNell [R CDD DIREKAO ❑FIN DIR ,Mayor Allen Settle E3CCAo ❑FIRE CHIEFCouncilmember John Ewan Ei�ITTORNEY ❑Pw DIRDCCERKIORIG ❑POLICE CHFCouncilmember Jan Marx ❑I.A MT TEAM ❑REC DIRCouncilmember David Romero ?FC►svFLfs ❑UTIL DIRCouncilmember Ken SchwartzLa' 1�1t� ❑PERs DIR
e.w*I6rP,ttAf4D
990 Palm Street W- KP I L.VA*f44 .
San Luis Obispo, CA 93401
Re: Log Cabin Property
Dear Council Members,
We were recently advised the Cultural Heritage Committee has recommended the log
cabin located on Broad Street be added to the list of contributing historic structures. This
seems like a"stretch" considering the history of the property.
• We were provided a copy of the proposed mixed-use facility, for the location. This
seems to be consistent with the City's General Plan and will be more visually appealing
than what is currently located on the property.
We have been actively involved in the development of the Creekside project located
across Broad Street from the log cabin property. The proposed new development is
consistent with the character the City is trying to establish on Broad Street and you are
encouraged to overrule the Cultural Heritage Committee's recommendation.
Thanks for your consideration.
Sincerely,
Charles Senn
RECEIVED
NOV 07 20100
SLO CITY COUNCIL
Nov-07-00 US . 13A Property ManagQoi.-nt 8055430992 P. 01
mEETING AGENDA
DATE III___ITEM #=.
RUTLEDGE COMPANY
• COMMERCIAL I(EAL ESTATE
P.O. Box 977 w GZ'COU�ICIL :71:
C'9
San Luis Obispo, CA 9340(,(905)543.6819 Fax: (805)543-0992 p^ h0 :';:ilEF
0310 :L'Ci1FcU --L..!T Tom'-.:.1 Dig
L67L DIRFax9-�fR LPA WS DIR
✓ K•whi*enand
Vol W- Mc-rLvai n&
To: Mavor Allen Settle from: Dan Rutledge
Company: City of sw Pages: 15
Fax: 781-7109 Date: November 7.2000
Phone:
❑ Urgent ❑ For Review ❑ Plcasc:Comment ❑ Please Reply ❑ Plcase Recycle
Re: 811 Ll Capitatt- "Log Cabin" Property
Dear Mayor Settle:
T am writing you regarding the Quaglhio project on the property where the"Log Cabin"
stucture is located. T am involved with other properties in the Broad Street/Airport Area. it
is my understanding that Mr. Quallino wishes to remove this structure:utd construct a new
mixed use project on this site. i have seen plans for the proposed project and wish to express
my opinion that the new project would be it better use for this property and tum what has been
a Somewhat run down area into a professional looking project that will be consistent with the
development of this business corridor along Broad Street to the Airport Area. It is also my
understanding that the"lug huilding"may be considered a historic structure and as such could
stand in the way of the proposed development. 1 cannot say that T am an expert on historic
structures, but i hope this structure is not placed in that category. It is a building that has been
on this property for sonic tune,but I cannot see and have never heard ul'any historical
significance or events associated with it. Tt seems to me that it is just wi older structure that
has served its'purpose and needs to be replaced.
SincerelyLP"-t ree
ir
an Rutledge =7 -
V1111, , Lu1�.upl3ru
Mo�-�n Brc�. I
,q� s 2000
VELOPMENT
SPECIALIZING IN JAPANESE SWEDISH ITALIAN �__I. PORT NE
Michael Morin 1�_
Proprietor ALSO SERVICING SERVICING MOST AMERI
AGENDA
DATE 1Lai---Qk ITEM # 3
To Whom It May Concern,
I am writing in regards to the property at 811 El Capitan Way' in particular
the building known as "the Log Cabin", currently occupied by the House of
Prayer. I own the business and building directly across El Capitan from the
House of Prayer, Morin Bros. Foreign Automotive. I am sympathetic to the
goals of the Cultural Heritage Committee. . I assume they wish to preserve
the building because of it's historical significance. I would like to point out
thatevebuilding over fifteen or twenty years old has a story to tell, some
more varied than others. I remember dancing and playing pool in that
building when it housed "Crazy Horse" saloon in the early seventies. No
doubt the building had already had an interesting life before that. However,
an interesting history does not, in my opinion, immediately qualify a
structure for preservation, especially one of no particular historic or
architectural significance. Some nice pictures of it in its present condition
and maybe an article by Dan Kreiger in "Times Past" in the TT ought to be
sufficient.
MOUROI:71 Thank You For Your Attention @,ACAO
tk y � 0rvap tIGMT�-,u , /I`/,, '3 I( BtLERKI❑MGMT Michael Morin e t
✓R.Wv%m ena.nd
✓�. ►aandevtll>✓
RECEIVED
N 0 V 7 - 2000
SLO CIT°' CLERK
MMSER 4090 Broad Street San Luis Obispo, CA 93401
rat-COUNnis (805) 541-2407
ME. ,AG AGENDA
DATE 1 I .ay`°0 ITEM #.
From: Ed Stevens <eclonorvel.com>
• To: <sstendahl@slocity.org>
Date: 1117/0012:37PM
Subject: Proposed mixed-use development at corner of Highway 227 and EI CapitanWay
Dear Mayor Allen Settle and City Council Members,
I am a small business owner in San Luis Obispo. My company, NORVEL, imports
model-hobby supplies from around the world and distributes them to our base
of 12,000 U.S. customers. I employ five good people.
My family and I run our business in San Luis Obispo because of the great LWC.0V%Q
quality of life here. But, to remain competitive, our company needs to
grow. As you know, finding affordable space for a small business in San prn*( @F#§N
Luis Obispo is getting really hard. @N
In principle, I like how the City Council protects the quality of life in ate" @
MIN
SLO. But, sometimes the protective actions of our local government look
more zealous than anything. And, I don't think our local government ft,whiff e„and
demonstrates enough concern for average folk. We're the ones who have to ,i YJ. MC-X1,/ain e.
live with the consequences of well-intentioned "quality of life" policies.
For example, the Cultural Heritage Committee has recently recommended
preventing commercial development at the south-east corner of Highway 227
and EI Capitan Way just to save a"Log Cabin"which isn't even made of logs.
The building they are wanting to protect is not architecturally significant.
It's just old.
If this commercial development is prevented, it will directly hurt small
business owners like me. I implore you to consider the perspective of small
business owners. We need affordable space. Why should a reputable, local
developer be forced to jump through so many hoops just to put up a building
that's desperately needed by citizens?
Does.our local government really want a super beautiful city only rich
people and rich companies can afford? Who's looking out for the little guy?
Please do not accept the Cultural Heritage Committee's findings and please
do not approve their recommendation to prevent the development at Highway
227 and EI Capitan Way.
Very truly yours,
Ed Stevens
General Director
NORVEL, LLC
P.O. Box 3459
San Luis Obispo, CA 93403
(805) 547-8360 phone
RECEIVED
NOV 0 7 2000
SLO CITY COUNCIL
r .eaxiu 1•10r,19 YUL 15 Egig
NU.974 P. 1/1
MEETING AGENDA
ITEM #
November 7, 2000
Q'COUNCIL
Lam^;� ❑Fi..`I C'
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Mayor Allen Settle and City Council Members "
V
990 Palm Street ts,wr+is�Hg►�n
San Luis Obispo, CA 93401 v1 w►. M°SI J6tcn�
Re: City Council Meeting, Nov 9, 00
Quaglino: Log Cabin
Dear Mayor Settle and City Council Members:
I would like to express my support for Matt Quaglino's appeal of the Cultural Heritage
Committee's decision regarding the °Log Cabin". The building has no architectural
historical significance and the proposed new project would be a vast improvement.
As an architect, I am very familiar with this structure as I was hired to design a remodel
for it in 1982. The plan at that time was to convert it into a teen night club. The
structure had been previously remodeled several times and was in very poor condition.
The teen club was short lived and the building was sold and has been remodeled several
times since.
There are many fine historical buildings in San Luis Obispo that should be preserved.
this one does not fall into that category.
erl ,
+3 en D. Putts, AIA
RECEIVED
Arc?> ectc�e.PlaranAn S Canh N 0 V 7 — 2000
3950 Broad Sheet—$We I06
San Lrds Obispo,CA 93401 S LO C+T',1
(805) 541-504 CLERK
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San Luis
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{•'i}�t4 �-.- �`��- ..�_ �'. Office • 111 - Numbers
(8 05) 1 •
(805) 543-7831
805) 543-7877 (FAX)
E-mail: bertrando@thegrid.not
Elm's1n f 7, Jv l � F� �t betsyb@thegrid.net
January 1 2000
ResourceCultural 1 1 1
the Log CabinParcel,
P#40-041008
Southeast Corner 1
El Capitan Way andBroad
1 1 076-421-028
ILuisObispo, '
Prepared
Matt Quaglino Betsy Bertrando, HistoricalResearch
San Luis Obispo, CA 9
-
• • 1
ABSTRACT
In December, 1999,a request was made by Matt Quaglino for a cultural research
survey and inventory for a property located at the corner of Highway 227(Broad Street)
and El Capitan Way. The two adjacent lots (103 &104) contain one existing structure that
was recorded and assigned a Primary number by the State Historic Preservation Office: P
40-041008. As a result of the historical research and archaeological investigation, it was
determined that the existing structure on the parcel is potentially significant based on
criteria set forth in the California Environmental Quality Act, the Public Resources Codes
and the City of San Luis Obispo's guidelines for the preservation of historical and cultural
resources. Following these findings, recommendations are contained within this document
as to how to proceed with future development of the parcel with consideration of this
potentially significant resource.
INTRODUCTION
The field work carried out as part of this study was conducted by Ethan Bertrando and
Betsy Bertrando and assisted by Luther Bertrando. Ethan Bertrando holds a Masters Degree in
Anthropology and has over ten years experience implementing archaeological research projects
in the central coast. Betsy Bertrando has over twenty years experience with the cultural resources
of the central coast and has completed numerous research projects for the City of San Luis
Obispo. The field work took place on December 31, 1999. The parcel is depicted on the San
Luis Obispo 7.5' USGS quadrangle topographic map and is situated in a newly annexed portion
of the City of San Luis Obispo.
The request for a cultural resource inventory and historic structure evaluation was made
by the current landowner, Matt Quaglino. Preliminary plans for the two parcels call for the
removal of the existing structure to allow appropriate space for the development of commercial
office space at that location.
BACKGROUND
Natural History
Prior to the development of the-land surrounding the project area, the general
environment contained plant and animal species endemic to similar coastal valleys in the area.
Open grasslands and chaparral dominated the landscape with oak forest scattered intermittently.
Today, the immediate area surrounding the project area is developed and zoned as both
commercial and residential land. Undisturbed areas of natural growth can still be found nearby .
Geology
The dominant geology of the general area can be characterized as Franciscan formation
Log Cabin Inventory,SLO: 1
(melange)with intrusive dacites (e.g. Bishop Peak) and isolated low lying areas of
Pleistocehe/Holocene alluvial deposits (Chipping 1987). The Franciscan melange is composed
of a variety of rock and mineral types. These types include dark shale, sandstones (graywacke),
basalts (e.g. pillow and redrock), serpentine, greenstone (altered submarine basalt), chert and
small localized blocks of metamorphic rocks with minerals of the blueschist facies dispersed
throughout a matrix of sheared shale or tectonic paste. These materials represent one of the
oldest geologic formations of the immediate area and date to the Cretaceous Period. These wide
variety of materials were exploited in prehistory for a number of uses. Chert, and to a lesser
extent, basalt and shale were used in the production of chipped stone industries (e.g. projectile
points, scrapers, choppers, blades, bifaces, etc.). Sandstone is well suited to the manufacture of
groundstone products such as manos, metates,mortars and pestles. Examples of these materials
used for these tool types are quite common in the general area. Because of its relatively soft
composition, serpentine and, specifically, schists referred to as "soap stone" were used to make
shaped objects, often ornamental in nature. Beads, pipes and effigies of this material were highly
prized and appeared as trade items throughout California. Other less common materials, such as
chromite, were also utilized but played a relatively small role in the stone tool technology of the
area.
Scattered relict Tertiary deposits are also found in the San Luis Obispo and Chorro Creek
drainages. Pockets of Monterey formation from this period contain both shales and cherts. At
least one of these locations in the Chorro Valley was a heavily exploited source of toolstone that
may have played an important role in the prehistoric economy of the local area(E. Bertrando and
D. Han o 1997,E. Bertrando 1996a).
The most visually impressive geology of the area was produced through volcanic activity
during the Oligocene/Early Miocene Periods. These volcanic events resulted in the formation of
the series of hills extending from San Luis Obispo to Morro Bay, often referred to as the seven or
nine sisters. These range in height from Davidson Seamount, located underwater off the coast of
Morro Bay to Bishop Peak which reaches 1,559 feet above sea level. The foundation stone of
these ancient volcanic plugs can best be discerned from the large exposures on Bishop Peak,
Hollister Peak and Morro Rock. The material is dacite but has been referred to locally at various
times in the past as bluestone, redstone, granite and granitic. Dacite from these exposures is
composed of; "plagioclase microlites and glass and a few homblende crystals, and a mass of
phenocrysts of andesite,plagioclase feldspar, biotite and hornblende, with minor quartz and
magnetite. Some minerals have been altered by groundwater to zeolites." (Chipping 1987). This
material has been used extensively as a local building material throughout history. This material
-had several uses in prehistory as well. Examples of this material being used for bedrock mortars,
pestles and metates occur throughout Chorro Valley and the upper reaches of San Luis Obispo
Creek. Several examples of rock art are also known to be contained on exposures of this
material. Recently, a unique prehistoric dacite quarry location was identified near Dairy Creek
that appears to have been used to make large pestle blanks (Roper et al. 1997).
The most recent geology in the project area are those Holocene and to a lesser extent
Pleistocene alluvial deposits which are still in the formation process. An example of these
occurs with the eastern fork of Islay Creek. The development of these soils is attributed to the
Log Cabin Inventory,SLO: 2
activity of the stream which tends to flood during torrential rains. The flooding results in
additional`deposition of alluvial materials around the banks of the creek.
On the parcel, the topsoil is composed of either silt or clayey silt where visible. The soil
type noted during the survey was a dark greyish brown. Buried soils of the area are described in
earlier reports (Bertrando 1994; Fitzgerald 1998; Singer et al. 1993). The likelihood of
encountering buried soils or paleosols in low-lying areas, such as the project area is relative high.
Most notably the discovery of a 10,000 year old occupation site in the general vicinity of the
project area demonstrates that such encounters are possible and of potentially great significance
(Fitzgerald 1998).
Hydrology
Islay Creek, the eastern fork of which is located immediately to the south of the project
area boundaries, is part of the greater San Luis Obispo Groundwater Basin. This basin includes
other major watershed such as Davenport Creek, San Luis Creek, Prefumo Creek and Stenner
Creek as well as numerous minor and unnamed drainages. Islay Creek is seasonal today but may
have been perennial in the past, before modem extraction of the groundwater system. The creek
joins Arroyo de los Alisos near the project area and eventually feeds into San Luis Obispo Creek
before entering the ocean at Avila Beach.
Climate
The climate of the general area is described as Mediterranean,hot dry summers and mild
wet winters. The upper interior areas of the coastal valleys, such as the area surrounding the
project area, experience annual and daily temperature fluctuations more drastic than coastal areas
but less extreme than other areas further inland. Summer temperatures around the project area
occasionally reach beyond 100°Fahrenheit but more often settle around the mid to upper 80's.
Winter temperatures dip below freezing but this is also very dependant on elevation as the valley
bottoms can go frost free. Snowfall has been known to occur in the San Luis Obispo area but is
extremely rare. Precipitation occurs almost exclusively between the months of November and
April. Annual rainfall is variable dependant on elevation and slope exposure but flooding in the
coastal valleys is almost an annual occurrence.
Biology
The surrounding native plant communityis that of scattered oak and chaparral with areas
of grassland intermixed. Riparian environments exist nearby at locations such as at Islay Creek.
The surrounding hills are dominated by scattered oak woodland and chaparral. Steep slopes
which have little topsoil development support chaparral communities while open level areas
contain native and introduced grasses. Among the native plants found on or near the property
that were important to aboriginal population are a variety of oak (Quercus sp.), willow(Salix
sp.), sage (Salvia sp.) and bunchgrass species (Juncus sp.).
Log Cabin Inventory,SLO:3
The land surrounding the project parcels still supports a variety of native animal species
that have existed in the area since prehistoric times. Among these surviving species are badger,
rabbit, skunk, grey and ground squirrel, mule deer, fox, raccoon, coyote, bobcat, black bear and
mountain lion as well as a variety of local and migrant avifauna, reptiles and smaller fauna.
Important native species to the local prehistory and history that can no longer be found in the
area are tule elk,pronghorn antelope and grizzly bear. These were important species to the local
Native American inhabitants. Elk and antelope continue to be important natural resources in the
interior of the county.
In the past San Luis Obispo Creek and its tributaries supported a fairly large seasonal run
of anadromous trout(steelhead)and salmon (coho) which were actively exploited by the native
inhabitants of the area. Although currently their populations are down, active steps taken
recently are appearing to be successful in the stabilization of these keystone species in these
drainages. In addition, the east fork of Islay Creek does still maintain a riparian community of
animal species including several species of fish, crayfish, western pond turtle,watersnake and a
variety of frogs and toads
Prehistory
The area surrounding the project area was occupied by speakers of the Obispefio dialect
of the Chumash Language. The Chumash were a group of hunter-gatherer-fishers who attained
an extraordinary level of social complexity given their means of subsistence. Today, descendants
of these groups continue to live in San Luis Obispo, Santa Barbara and Ventura Counties as well
as elsewhere in California.
The Obispefio Chumash occupied the northern limits of the Chumash occupation sphere,
an area beginning near the Nipomo area and extending northwards,perhaps as far as San Simeon
and beyond (Greenwood 1972, Gibson 1991). Due to a paucity of data available for local
prehistory, chronology of San Luis Obispo's past is based largely on current models developed to
the north and south. These periods can be roughly broken down into; Paleo-Coastal Adaptation
(12,000 to 9,000 Years Ago), The Early Period or Oak Grove (9,000 to 5,000 Years Ago), The
Middle Period or Hunting (5,000 to 2,000 Years Ago), and The Late Period of Canalino (2,000
to 200 Years Ago).
The area that would later be known as San Luis Obispo did not support as dense a
population as neighboring coastal areas such as Morro Bay and Pismo Beach and at times may
have only been seasonally occupied. This is primarily due to the lack of marine resources that
were aggressively exploited in the coastal regions. This pattern of population concentration
appears to have occurred throughout the Chumash homeland and beyond to neighboring areas of
California. Despite this trend,there are known prehistoric sites that exist within the city limits.
Most of these sites represent temporary occupations or small village sites located on one of the
major creeks running through the city (i.e. Stenner and San Luis Obispo Creeks). Other sites in
the area suggest they were used for a particular function such as milling stations or quarry sites.
Log Cabin Inventory,SLO: 4
Archaeological evidence for Native American habitation in the local area has spanned at
least 9,000 years and perhaps greater than 10,000 years (Greenwood 1972, Gibson 1996,
Fitzgerald 1998). The indigenous inhabitants were quite accomplished at recovering shellfish
and other marine resources such as fish, marine mammals and seaweed. At inland sites,
terrestrial resources provided the greater part of their consumable goods although marine
resources can also be found there as well (a result of either migration to and from the coast or
trade with those inhabiting the coastline). Terrestrial resources that were common in the San
Luis Obispo area included plant and animal communities associated with the chaparral and
grassland environments, riparian and wetland communities (e.g. Stenner Creek, Laguna Lake,
etc.) and even the higher elevation resources of the Cuesta Grade area.
A wide variety of prehistoric site types have been identified in the general vicinity of the
project area. These include; chipped stone quarries, groundstone quarries, seed processing
stations, hunting blinds, rock art sites, animal kill/butchering sites, seasonal camps, stone tool
manufacturing locations, lithic scatters, settled occupations, and spiritual "shrine" locations. To
date, it has been difficult to determine any shift in settlement types or locations over time in the
upper coastal valley. There does appear to be increasing evidence that fluctuations did occur,
stimulated primarily by climatic shifts.
The nearest recorded prehistoric site to the project area is SLO-1427. It is located at the
southeastern base of the serpentine ridge (known as Cheapskate Hill) located northwest of the
project area. This site was recorded in 1990 as a collection of four bedrock mortars (Dills 1990).
No other artifacts were noted but the recorder stated that an intensive survey of the area was not
conducted.
With the establishment of Mission San Luis Obispo de Tolosa in 1772, and occasional
European visits to the area prior to that time,the Native American culture of the area changed
dramatically (Gibson 1991). Indigenous technologies were lost or replaced by western ones and
religion and belief systems became integrated with the Spanish version of Western culture. Most
devastating to the local Chumash population was the introduction of Old World diseases for
which they had little natural tolerance (Heizer 1974). As a result, the Native American
population in the area dropped dramatically between the end of the 18th to the end of the 19th
century (Gibson 1991).
History
The first known recorded-European contact in San Luis Obispo occurred on September 6,
1769 when the Spanish land expedition led by Gaspar de Portold arrived from San Diego. Fr.
Crespi gave the name La Canada de la Natividad de Nuestra Senora to the place that three years
later would be near the location where Mission San Luis Obispo de Tolosa was founded
(Engelhardt 1933). The expedition crossed San Luis Obispo County and continued north along
the coast to Monterey. It was the beginning of the chain of missions that was to connect the two
outposts.
Within the City of San Luis Obispo very little is known of the location of the adobe and
Log Cabin Inventory,SLO: 5
stone buildings associated with the mission complex (Bertrando and Bertrando 1998). The
decline ofthe mission that started in 1820 was seriously impacted when the earthquake of 1830
caused extensive damage to the mission buildings (Kocher 1972). The secularization of the
missions by the Mexican government was enacted in 1835. This caused mission lands to pass
into private hands through Mexican land grants.
In 1839, the Indians from the Mission requested that the land known as Corral de Piedra
be left to them and not awarded to the petitioner Senor Filomena Pico de Pomberre. They said
that the wild cattle of the Mission were gathered at that place and if lost to them would cause
them to loose their livelihood(Blomquist 1943). Governor Alvarado granted what was thought
at the time to be a reasonable request. However,the land between Islay Hill and Arroyo Grande
was soon to change ownership.
The project area is located just to the north of the Rancho Corral de Piedra and is thought
to have been a part of the original boundaries of the large Rancho that extended to Arroyo
Grande. Petitioned from the Mexican government by Jose Maria Villavicencio in 1840,
Governor Alvarado awarded Villavicencio two leagues of land in 1841 When the land was
surveyed in 1842, however, it was surveyed for seven leagues of land which was included in the
petition signed on 1844 (Blomquist 1941). The United States Government Land Commissioner
confirmed 30,911.20 acres to Villavicencio in 1867 (Perez 1996).
The area of the Log Cabin was once on the property of Solano Rodriguez who had a
house south of the building during the later 1800s. His sister was the wife of Josd Maria
Villavicencio. His brother, Desiderio lived in the adobe that still exists on the other side of the
Union Pacific rails at the foot of Islay Hill (Rodriguez pers comm).
After the American Period took hold in the 1850s, growth in the area consisted of a
sprinkling of farms and ranches, many from the immigrant populations that were slowly entering
the valley. The dairy industry took hold in the 1870s and was a major economic force until the
1940s. Many of the dairies were operated by Swiss-Italian settlers who had brought their
expertise with them from the old country.
METHODS
Archival Research
Much of the research material for this report was available in the archives of BBRC. This
included reviewing early directories, great registers, and written histories. Early maps and land
requests as well as the Sanborn Fire Insurance Maps for San Luis Obispo were also available.
Maps and documents were reviewed at the County Clerk/Recorders Office for the Chain of Title
and land development history. Individuals that have lived in the surrounding area for many years
were interviewed. Of particular help was Dorothea Rhodes, the adjacent property owner.
Contact was made with the Edna Farm Center and the members graciously under the direction of
Marilyn Britton gave their time to share their recollections of the Log Cabin. In addition, the
Log Cabin Inventory,SLO: 6
Central Coast Information Center at the University of California at Santa Barbara was also
visited to review previous investigations conducted in the area as well as archaeological sites
known to exist in the vicinity. All copies of available reports for the area were reviewed and
compared with the project parcel.
Field Investigation
The field investigation took place on December 31, 1999 with Matt and Steve Quaglino
present. This investigation had two primary objectives; 1) Inspect and assess the standing
structure and other historical features, and 2) Observe the ground surface for evidence of
associated or preceding archaeological deposits. The structure investigated had architectural
attributes noted and photographed. The thrust of this analysis was to gather data that would be
appropriate in determining the potential significance of the resource. The surface
reconnaissance was employed in an opportunistic manner. Inspection was conducted in areas
that were accessible based on the absence of structures and paved areas. The location of any
potentially significant material was to be recorded for future provenance information.
SIGNIFICANCE CRITERIA
Legislation created with the goal of protecting cultural resources originated with the
passing of The Antiquities Act of 1906. This act protected and preserved cultural resources on
federal lands including Indian Reservations, forest preserves and military reservations. Other
acts followed including The Archaeological Resources Protection Act of 1979,The Historic Sites
Act of 1935, The Archaeological and Historic Preservation Act of 1974, The Reservoir Salvage
Act of 1960, National Environmental Policy Act of 1969 National Historic Preservation Act of
1966.The Federal Aid Highway Act of 1956,The American Religious Freedom Act of 197a and
The Native American Graves Protection and Repatriation Act of 1990 (E. Bertrando and B.
Bertrando 1996). Any or all of these may be invoked to address cultural resource issues on
federal property. Locally, however, the majority of projects subject to cultural resource
considerations rely on the California Environmental Quali1y Act of 1970 (CEQA)to provide
guidelines regarding determining resource significance and mitigation measures.
CEQA was adopted and approved to set forth some basic policies for environmental
protection. Historic and prehistoric resources are specifically addressed in Appendix K of
CEQA's definition of environmental resources. Section 21001 of CEQA provides that the state
should "take all action necessary to provide the people of this state with clean air and water,
enjoyment of natural, scenic, and historic environmental qualities . . . and preserve for future
generations representations of all plant and animal communities and examples of the major
periods of California history." (underline added). Additionally, this act provides for the
identification of resources through the preparation of environmental impact reports such as this
one. It further provides that the loss of resources be avoided or mitigated (Wilcoxon and
Bertrando in prep.).
Log Cabin Inventory,SLO: 7
J
In CEQA, Appendix K set forth basic criteria established to determine the potential
significance of a cultural resource. The results of this determination subsequently affect how the
resource may be treated during future use related impacts. These criteria, once identified as
applicable to the resource, are used as indicators of potential significance. The criteria used to
identify significant cultural resources include the following attributes:
1. Is associate with an event or person of:
1) Recognized significance in California or American History, or
2) Recognized scientific importance in prehistory.
2. Can provide information which is both of demonstrable public interest and useful in
addressing scientifically consequential and reasonable or archaeological research
questions;
3. Has a special or particular quality such as oldest, best example, largest, or last surviving
example of its kind;
4. Is at least 100 years old and possesses substantial stratigraphic integrity; or
5. Involves important research questions that historical research has shown can be answered
only with archaeological methods.
Modifications to these criteria have been made adopting stipulations present in the Public
Resources Code, Section 5024.1, Title 14 CCR Section 4852. These revision are effective
February 1999 and should be considered to pertain to this project. The new criteria include the
following;
1. Is associated with events that have made a significant contribution to the broad patterns of
California's history and cultural heritage.
2. Is associated with the lives of persons important in our past.
3. Embodies the distinctive characteristics of a type, period, region or method of
construction, or represents the work of an important creative individual, or possesses high
artistic value.
4. Has yielded,or may be likely to yield, information important in prehistory or history.
Cultural resources displaying one or more of these characteristics, or others not
mentioned, may be considered significant and thereby subject to special measures of avoidance
or evaluation prior to any potential impacts. If impacts cannot be avoided then a mitigation plan
is normally developed. CEQA directives regarding mitigation of cultural resources are also
addressed in Section VI &VII, Appendix K(Wilcoxon and Bertrando in prep.).
Log Cabin Inventory,SLO: 8
Because the project area is located within the city limits of San Luis Obispo two other
documents were also reviewed in completing this preliminary assessment. For general
determinations on historic and/or cultural resources criteria found in the City of San Luis
Obispo's Archaeological Resource Preservation Guidelines were used. For the Log Cabin
Structure itself, the Historical Preservation Program Guidelines,produced by the city, were
consulted. In particular, Delineation of Historic Resource Criteria for Building Evaluation and
Recommendations. found in Appendix C of the City Guidelines was most useful.
RESULTS
Archival Research and Interviews
The review of the historic records for the Log Cabin revealed its interesting, important
and often overlooked role in the development of a community. It contributed to aspects of
culture and society that have not currently been addressed with its regards to the City of San Luis
Obispo and its environs. In this case, the activities include dancing, socializing and other
nightclub activities as well as illegal pursuits such as smuggling, prostitution and unlawful sales
and consumption of alcohol (during Prohibition). These appear to be at the root of the
development of the Log Cabin.
Within the framework of a community, illicit activities preferred particular locations.
Often these areas were in closely associated impoverished locations. In the 1800s, the San Luis
Obispo Red Light District, gambling houses and opium dens were on Palm and Morro Streets
adjacent to the Court House. Some brothels were depicted on the Sanborn Fire Insurance Maps
as "female boarding houses".
In the early 1900s when the automobile began to allow greater mobility, the convenience
of easy access to government and business districts was no longer an important consideration in
determining the location of these types of"unwholesome" activities. In fact, removing these
business from under the public eye was seen as a benefit to the society as a whole. The
"roadhouse"became a social structure placed outside of the town boundaries yet accessible by
automobile. It provided a way of allowing illicit activities and boisterous behavior not always
popular with the townspeople to take place a discreet distance from town. Most communities
along the central coast had these roadhouses that were outside the jurisdiction of the local police
departments. With the advent of prohibition these places became more popular and introduced
._ -the-"Speak=easy", to the roadhouse. This necessitated the game of Federal law enforcement
trying to catch the patrons drinking in an isolated area without the patrons being forewarned. In
San Luis Obispo, a small Red Light District developed along South Broad Street/Edna Road
(today Highway 227),particularly near the intersection of Tank Farm Road. After prohibition,
the district's clients included servicemen stationed in the area during WW II.
This unofficial district continued offering the public various activities that were not
popular within confines of more densely populated City neighborhoods. Although during the
Log Cabin Inventory,SLO: 9
later half of the twentieth century some of this activity consisted of large gatherings featuring
loud bands, alcohol and dancing, it was mixed with church services and meeting/social hall
activities.
A change in the role of the Log Cabin took place when it came under the control of the
Edna Farm Center. A proposal initiated by the San Luis Obispo Chamber of Commerce to the
County Board of Supervisors resulted in a Farm Bureau under the leadership of the Agricultural
Extension Service. The first meeting was held on December 28, 1922. The Smith-Lever Act of
1914 provided federal matching funds to cover the cost of county agents later known as farm
advisors. The Farm Bureaus were divided into community centers and were represented on the
Farm Bureau Board of Directors. The Edna Farm Center was one of the original twelve centers
organized in the County by the Farm Bureau(Souder 1997). The use of the Log Cabin by the
Edna Farm Center began in 1951 when they acquired the Log Cabin to use as a meeting place
and social hall
Unfortunately, a fire in 1964 at the former location of the Farm Bureau on Higuera Street
was responsible for destroying most of the early records of the organization and local agricultural
history. The following year the new Farm Bureau was dedicated at its present location on Tank
Farm Road.
In 1997, the San Luis Obispo County Farm Bureau celebrated its 75`h anniversary in this
county. The Edna Farm Center is a part of District 4 that represents Arroyo Grande, Edna Valley
and Nipomo. Five Districts represent the County of San Luis Obispo in all aspects of farming
and ranching.
The 1906 a Man of the Subdivisions of the San Luis Obispo Suburban Tract depicts the
project area including both Lots 103 and 104. These lots were under the ownership of the James
Vail for most of the first half of the twentieth century. Vail was a building contractor and built
"Vail's Villas" on Edna Road. Lot 104 was owned by the Hathways for the latter part of the
same time period until it was sold by Hathway to the Edna Farm Center in 1951. In interviews
with the Edna Farm Center members, and the neighboring parcel owners, all agreed that the Log
Cabin was operated by James Vail and built by Vail on Lot 104. A follow up check of the deeds
at the County Recorders Office certainly attest to both Vail and Hathway as two names being
involved with Lots 103 and 104.
The Edna Farm
_group felt that the Log Cabin was in-place in the 1920s,-several had
visited the structure during the 1930s and 1940s when it was a "road house"/dance hall.
Remembered also,was "the chute that allowed for a quick exit". Prohibition lasted from 1920 to
1933 and the chute was probably from that era in the building's history. During World War II
servicemen frequented the establishment regularly. In 1951, when the property was deeded to
the Edna Farm Center, it became a meeting place for ranchers and farmers in Edna Valley.
Money was lent for the purchase by John Christensen who was chairman for the group from
1945 to 1947 (Daresay pers. comm.). They paid for the structure by renting the hall for parties
and special events, holding bake sales and preparing monthly meals. Eventually, with the
Log Cabin Inventory,SLO: 10
insurance costs, it became more than they could manage and it was sold to James and Marguerite
Rentz in 1970 (Lot 104).
The Log Cabin was sold to Norm and Pat Jackson for a Dance Studio in the 1975. At
that time it was modified by Steve Pultz, Architect. The mezzanine that surrounded the interior
space was removed (Quaglino pers. comm.). After the Jacksons sold the building, it gained a
rather unsavory albeit brief reputation as the "Pussycat Theater" (Britton pers. comm.) During
most of the 1980s and 90s both Lots 103 and 104 were owned by George Tate. For a brief
period the Log Cabin became the "Crary Horse". This was popular with the college crowd,
however it was not prepared to handle the overwhelming crowds (Rhodes pers. comm). Later the
building was known variously as The House of Prayer and the Redwood Manor. The project:
parcel was annexed to the City of San Luis Obispo in February 1999 (Quaglino pers. comm.).
Field Investigation
The results of the field investigation focused on the Log Cabin structure itself. Basic
architectural features and methods of construction were noted along with types of building
material. Small areas surrounding the structure were landscaped and provided some exposure to
the ground surface of the area. The vast majority of the project area is paved for parking.
Because of these limitations and the prominence of the historic structure, the emphasis of study
was placed on the Log Cabin.
Architectural Review
Exterior
The two story rectangular Log Cabin is approximately 40 feet 5 inches by 80 feet 4
inches. The upper story windows have been covered by the same siding used throughout the
building. The siding is in the form of tongue and groove clear cut 5 1/4 inch diameter halved
redwood logs. The north and west side have had a raised concrete deck leading to the main
entrance on the wet side. A later one story addition of board and batten construction remains on
part of the rear east side. The south side had a one story 18 feet extension constructed of various
materials with an attempt to continue the log look across the front(west) side. The roof is semi-
elliptical and covered with rolled paper roofing. The front of the Log Cabin has a native stone
fireplace chimney on the south side of the entrance.
Interior
The entrance lobby has a stone fireplace. The stairs to the left of the entrance lead to
offices above the lobby. At one time this area was a projection room for showing films (Pussycat
Theater era). The main hall that at one time contained a surrounding mezzanine, has an altar at
the far end and is used for religious services. The hall is lit by four wagon wheels used as
chandeliers, each holding 6 lantern style lights.
Log Cabin Inventory,SLO: 11
One of the unusual features of the Log Cabin is the roof support system of diagonal
bracing that consists of two different dimensions of 2 by 6 inch boards. A member of the Edna
Farm Bureau recalled the same technique being used in a building that was formerly located on
971 Higuera Street. The Higuera Street building at one time housed a Safeway downstairs and a
dance hall upstairs called the Balconades. The roof design appears to be a Lamella roof which
was patented in 1925 and used for long roof spans. A network of short sheathed wood members
supported a reticulated barrel vault roof(Callender 1974, Bucher 1996).
Grounds
There are no major trees within the surrounding asphalt parking areas. A small grassy .
planted area is located between the front of the building and Broad Street continuing over to the
creek. A pepper tree is in the middle of the lawn area. A small cluster of redwoods near the
street may be a second growth. An oak, ceanothus, bottle brush and creek sycamores are also
evident. Near the comer of the creek and bridge there is a trash storing area with a shed. There
is also a three foot square mortared rock wall that contains a well that has been capped. A
narrow planted strip with spaced eucalyptus trees border the property as well as planter boxes
delineating the parking area and entrance to the Log Cabin.
The bridge spanning the creek on the southern border of the project parcel was
constructed by Cal Trans over Broad Street in 1978 and is of concrete box girder construction
(Pavlik pers. comm.). Previously the creek had plugged up and flooded the area during the
unusually heavy rains of 1962 (Garcia pers. comm.). The perennial creek has no official name at
this time and is listed on the bridge as East Fork of San Luis Obispo Creek. Early documents
describing the property that was once deeded to Henry A Tefft by Jose Maria Villa
(Villavicencio)refer to the Creek as Arroyo de los Alisos (Alder Creek). This property included
the project parcel within its northwest boundary. Dorothea Rhodes said that the plaque on the
former bridge stated the creek was the East Fork of Islay Creek.
Two small plank lined pits were found near the creek terrace, south of the Log Cabin.
They were approximately 2'6" square with an undetermined depth. The purpose of these features
is unknown but may be related to earlier use of the location as a Speak-Easy as storage locations
for contraband.
Archaeo—logy
The field survey for archaeological remains found no evidence of prehistoric use of the
project area. Almost the entire project area is paved or developed which afforded virtually no
surface visibility. Portions of the project area along the south edge of the parcel include a small
creek. This drainage provided excellent subsurface visibility through the creek cut.
Approximately six feet of soil was visible in these exposures. This exposure indicated that ca.
three feet of dark greyish brown alluvial silts with clay composed the topsoil grading into a more
clayey substrate. The creek itself glides across exposed yellowish blue brown clay derived from
argillic parent material, probably serpentine. The soils were surprisingly devoid of gravels,
Log Cabin Inventory,SLO: 12
cobbles or other rocks. No artifacts or altered soils associated with archaeological deposits were
identified'during the inspection.
Historic records indicate that related adjacent structures were present in the project area.
However, because these areas are paved, there can be no conclusive statement made at this time
as to whether such structures have related archaeological deposits that have survived or not.
Findings
Based on the findings of this report the structure in the project area known as the Log
Cabin appears to be potentially significant and may qualify for nomination to the State Register
of Historic Places. The qualities bom by the structure that make it potentially eligible are
contained in the Public Resources Code, Section 5024.1, Title 14 CCR Section 4852 and
include:
1. Is associated with events that have made a significant contribution to the broad patterns of
California's history and cultural heritage.
During Prohibition revenue from bootleggers (unloading alcohol from boats landing at
night along the extensive deserted beaches) was a surprisingly large part of the local economy.
The illicit business can be compared to the marijuana growers along the north coast of California
that operate today. This activity drew the attention and commerce of large sections of the state,
particularly southern California. In fact, it appears that this activity is in part responsible for the
later development of the tourist trade in this county. Settlements such as Pismo Beach can trace,
in part, the rise in their development to their role in the bootlegging industry of the 1920s and 30s
Later in the 1950s, the Log Cabin was associated with the hard working pioneer families
from the ranches, farms and dairies in the Edna Valley. It became a meeting and recreation place
for their families. Agriculture was their bond. Both groups of people came to the Log Cabin for
meeting and recreation, although of a vastly different kind. Social interaction, no matter what the
group, is a major part of our community. Both uses had an important effect on the economy of
the region.
2. Is associated with the lives of persons important in our past
The structure was owned by,.and built-by James-Vail, a most interesting and colorful
character in the history of San Luis Obispo. Additional contributions by this independent
individual include many of the buildings that were built in the City of San Luis Obispo during
the first half of the twentieth century. In addition, during Prohibition, Vail was a "prominent
bootlegger and Speak-easy owner". The club was an important part of the community by filling
the need of many to be free to drink and socialize during the prohibition years. His liquor
acquiring abilities were well known and his Log Cabin establishment was visited by famous and
influential people during prohibition such as Jean Harlow(D. Rhodes pers. comm.)
Log Cabin Inventory,SLO: 13
3. Embodies the distinctive characteristic of a type period region or method of
construction. or represents the work of an important creative individual or possesses huh
artistic value.
The structure is unquestionably unusual in its manner of construction (the Lamella roof)
and materials used (redwood log siding). At the same time it follows a building pattern with
similar characteristics displayed by other structures in the county that were used as dance halls
and socializing locales. Most are no longer in existence. In addition, the potential for
discovering remains or artifacts on the property and in the building that relate to the Speak-easy
era remains high.
At a local level, the Log Cabin demonstrates its role in history and its significance as an
historic structure in many ways. Judged on criteria set for in "The Historical Preservation
Program Guidelines" (Appendix C), this structure appears to be potentially eligible for inclusion
to the City's list of historic structures. The merit for the structures inclusion and the historic
value it represents is presented in several sections of the city's guidelines. Those that are
applicable to the Log Cabin include:
Amhitectaral Criteria
I. Style
1. The relative purity of a traditional style (as compared to building styles in San
Luis Obispo);
2. Rarity of existence at any time in the locale; and/or current rarity although the
structure reflects a once popular style.
3. Traditional, vernacular and/or eclectic influences that represent a particular social
milieu and period of the community; and/or the uniqueness of hybrid styles and
how these styles are put together.
4. The degree to which the structure has maintained its integrity (i.e., assessment of
alterations and structural conditions, if known).
II. Design
3. An expression of interesting details and eclecticism among carpenter-builders,
although the craftsmanship and artistic quality may not be superior.
III. Age
Historical Criteria
VII. History - Event
2. A relatively unique or interesting contribution to the city.
3. A contribution which, though minor, nonetheless was important to the
community.
VIII. History - Context
2. Secondary patterns of local history but closely associated with the building.
Log Cabin Inventory,SLO: 14
CONCLUSIONIRECOMMENDATIONS
Based on the preponderance of evidence brought to light during this study it is apparent
that a conclusive determination of significance and possibly nomination of the building to the list
of the City's Master List of Historical Resources must be made prior to any development
activities that may threaten the structure. This determination must consider the building's
potential eligibility to the State Register of Historic Places as well. The results of the findings
should also be used to develop mitigation procedures (if appropriate) for future use of the project
area.
To reiterate, the results of this study recommend that additional documentation is
required to address the potentially significant historic resource in the project area. This
additional documentation should include:
► Biographical sketch of the previous owner and builder, James Vail.
► In depth study of the role of the bootlegging industry in San Luis Obispo County.
► In depth history of the Log Cabin during the Prohibition years.
► Definitive and conclusive statements about the structure's significance on a state and city
level.
► Consultation either with the State Historic Preservation Officer(SHPO) or the City of
San Luis Obispo's Cultural Heritage Committee(CHC) to receive concurrence on
determinations of significance.
► Recommendations on procedures to take place that may impact the structure and
mitigation measures if deemed appropriate.
► A discussion of the potential of encountering historic archaeological remains in area
currently paved.
All research should be conducted by qualified individuals experienced in research of this
type. They should be familiar with local history, historic architecture, local and state guidelines
for evaluating resources such as-this. They should also be recognized by the city as qualified for
completing this type of study.
Log Cabin Inventory,SLO: 15
REFERENCES CITED
Bibliography
Bertrando,Ethan
1994 Cultural Resource monitoring for the P=osed Briclsyard Project Site. Prepared for J.D.Design
&Construction, San Luis Obispo,CA.
1996a Cultural Resource Subsurface Evaluation(Phase 2)of the Powell Parcel(CA SLO-214)APN•
038-711-010 B 1) EI Moro Avenue Los O os CA Report Prepared for Michael Powell,Los
Osos,CA.
Bertrando,Ethan,and Betsy Bertrando
1996 Archaeological Resource TrainingSyllabus. Workbook Prepared for the City of San Luis Obispo.
1998 Cultural Resource Investigation for the Proposed Utility Trenching at the 800 and 600 Blocks of
Walnut and Morro Streets in the City of San Luis Obisl2o.CA. Report prepared for the City of
San Luis Obispo.
Bertrando,Ethan and Douglas Harro
1997 Correlations between Lithic Raw Material Quality and Availability and the Formation of Flaked
Stone Tool Assemblages: Examples from the Chorro Valley,San Luis Obispo County. In,
Proceedings of the Society for California Archaeology. Volume 10.
Blomquist,Leonard Rudolph
1941 The San Luis Obispo District 1830-1850 Unpublished Master Thesis,University of California.
Bucher A.I.A.,Ward
1996 Dictionary of Building Preservation. Preservation Press,John Wiley&Sons, Inc.,New York.
Callender,John Hancock
1974 Time-Saver Standards for Architectural Desien Data. Fifth Edition,McGraw-Hill Book
Company,New York.
Chipping,David G.
1987 The Geology of San Luis Obis o County a Brief Description and Travel Guide.
Published by Kinko's Copies, San Luis Obispo,CA.
City of San Luis Obispo
1987 The Historical Preservation Program Guildelines
1995 ArchaeoloPical Guidelines.--Community Development Department.
Dills,Charles
1990 _Archaeological Site Record: CA-SLO-1427. Record on File at the Central Coast Information
Center,UCSB.
Engelhardt,O.F.M.,Fr.Zephyrin
1963 Mission of San Luis Obispo in the Valley of the Bears W.T. Genns, Santa Barbara.
Log Cabin Inventory,SLO: 16
Fitzgerald,Richard
1998 Archaeological Data RecoveN at CA-SLO-17 7 the Cro reek Site San Luis Obi po County,
California.Coastal Branch Phase 11 Project eport Prepared for the California Department of
Water Resources,California State Water Project,Coastal Branch,Phase II.
Gibson,Robert O.
1991 . Indians of North America: The Chumash,Frank W. Porter III,General Editor, Chelsea House
Publishers,New York.
1996 Results of Archaeoloeical Monitoring for UNOCAL Soil Testing Program Along
Pipelines Near Santa Margarita.San Luis Obispo Counjy.CA. Report Prepared for John Ljung,
UNOCAL CERT,San Luis Obispo,CA.
Greenwood, Roberta S.
1972 9000 Years of Prehistory at Diablo Canyon San Luis Obispo County Califomia. San Luis
Obispo County Archaeological Society Occasional Paper No. 7.
Heizer,Robert
1974 The Destruction of California Indians. Peregrine Smith Inc. Santa Barbara Ca.
Kocher,Paul H.
1972 Mission San Luis de Tolosa 1772-1972. Blake Printing&Publishing,Inc., San Luis Obispo.
Perez,Crisostomo N.
1996 Land Grants in Alta California. Landmark Enterprises, Rancho Cordova,CA.
Roper,C.Kristina,Ethan Bertrando,Michael Imwalle,Doug Harro, Rebecca McKim,Betsy Bertrando, Carol
Denardo and Barry Price
1996 Archaeological Evaluation of Resources along Segment 2 of the Chorro Valley Water
Transmission Line Report Prepared for the Department of General Services,San Luis Obispo,
CA and the Environmental Resources Branch of the U.S.Army Corps of Engineers,Los Angeles
District.
Singer,C.A.,J.Atwood and Frierman
1993 IT CAME FROM BENEATH THE STREETS: An Archaeological Report On The Expansion of
the City Of San Luis Obispo Wastewater Treatment System. Report Prepared for the Wastewater
Division, City of San Luis Obispo.
Souder,Mark
1997 75'h Anniversary 1922-1297. San Luis Obispo Farm Bureau. Commemorative Booklet Produced
for the San Luis Obispo County Farm Bureau.
Wilcoxon, Lary and Ethan Bertrando
in prep.Cultural Resource Investigation and Evaluation of the Proposed Coast Rock Mining_Project Santa
Marta and Sisquoc River Drainages. Report Prepared for Coast Rock Mining, Santa Maria,CA.
Log Cabin Inventory,SLO: 17
Historic Documents
Deeds
APN 77.421 028(Number change from 076-421-018)Lot 104 Log Cabin Lot
9/1956 Doc 11424 Vol 863 pg 266
James Vail to George and Dorothea Rhodes(Still live in the house on the south side of the creek)
3/4/1970 Doc 4945 Vol 1556 pg 255
Edna Farm Center grantee to James Rentz and Marguerite E.,2744 Chandler St, SLO. Signed
by William Froom and Donald Evenson
1975 Doc 10394 Vol 1826 pg 995
Rentz to Norman Jackson and Patricia M.
1979 Doc 8701 Vol 2136 pg 702
Jackson to Station 51, Inc.
1980 Doc 43050 Vol 2272 pg 380
Station 5l, Inc to Hallquist-Morton Investment Corp.
1982 Doc 18567 Vol 2404 pg 893
Hallquist to Miranda Vincent
1886 Miranda Living Trust to George Tate
1997 Doc 021767 George Tate to Walnut Properties
1999 Doc 042491
George Tate to Walnut Properties
APN CT 76.421 004(New Number from 76-421-026)Lot 103
1951 Doc 11676 Vol 628 pg 44
Ella Hathway to the Edna Farm Center
1983 Doc 052849 Vol 2534 pg 0692
Dennis Pfister and Barbara to George Tate
1983 Doc 080952 to George Tate
1986 Doc 074447 to House of Prayer
1992 Doc 002766 to George Tate
Log Cabin Inventory,SLO: 18
Death Records
Book 25 pg 178
Henry Clay Hathway - retired rancher, born SLO 1874, died SLO 1948, 69 yrs.
Book 55 pg 290
Murray Camden Hathway - real estate broker, born 1893, died SLO 1968, 74 yrs.
Book 50 pg 189
James Benjamin Vail - builder/contractor, born 1885 in Canada, died SLO 1965,
80 yrs.
Book 29 pg 316
William Lemuel Vail - Carpenter/building contractor, born 1873 in Mo. Died
SLO 1951, 78 yrs. Lived at"Vail's Villa" on Edna Road.
Historic Mans
1874 Mao of the County of San Luis Obis. Published by R.R. Harris.
1906 Man of the Subdivisions of the Suburban Tract The property of J.D. Grant,
surveyed by A.F. Parsons
Interviewed
Marilyn Britton and the members of the Edna Farm Center, Righetti, Darway et al.
Eddie Garcia, land owner in the project area who lived across Broad Street from the Log
Cabin from the late 1940s to 1978.
Robert Pavlik, Cal Trans District 5 Historian
Matt Quaglino, Project Developer
Dorothea and George Rhodes, long time property owners on the adjacent parcel to the
south of the Log Cabin.
June Rodriguez in conjunction with recording the Rodriguez Adobe.
Log Cabin Inventory,SLO: 19
Map 1: Project Location Map
Pismo Beach 7.5' USGS Quadrangle Topographic Map
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APPENDIX A
Site Record
Slate of California The Resources Agency 041008ir # P40 '
DEPARTMENT OF PARKS AND:RECREATION HRl #
PRIMARY RECORflTnrlornla)
NRHP;Status Code
Other<Llsdngs;
Revtew Code" Reviewer Date
Page_I of 2 *Resource Name or#• (Assigned by recorder)
P1. Other Identifier: Loa Cabin
*P2. Location: ❑ Not for Publication ❑ Unrestricted *a. County San Luis Obispo
and (1`2c, Pte, and P2b or P2d. Attach a Location Map as necessary.)
•b. USGS 7.5' Quad Pismo Beach Date 1978 T 3ISS; R 12E; :qE '/4 of NW '/4 of Sec 12; B.M.
c. Address SE corner El Capi tan Wy & Broad St City San Luis Obispo Zip 93401
d. UTM: (Give more than one for large and/or linear resources) Zone _, mE/ mN
e. Other Locational Data: (e.g., parcel #, directions to resource, elevation, etc., as appropriate)
APN:076-421-026 & 076-421-028
•P3a. Description: (Describe resource and its major elements. Include design, materials, condition, alterations, size, setting, and
boundaries) The two story Log Cabin is approximately 40'5"x80'4". The tongue and
groove redwood siding is in the form of half-cut logs. The north and west side have
a raised concrete deck leading to the main entrance on the west side. The roof is
semi-elliptical and covered with rolled paper roofing. There is a native stone
fireplace chimney on the south side of the entrance. There is a one story addition
on part of the east side and an 18' extension across the south side of the building.
There is a creek on the south side; a small planted area in the front; with thw rest
of the surrounding area an asphalted parking lot.
•P3b.Resource Attributes: (List attributes and codes) HP 13 Community Center/Social Hall
*P4.Resources Present: ® Building
❑ Structure ❑ Object ❑ Site ❑
District ❑ Element of District ❑
Other (Isolates, etc.)
P51b. Description of Photo: (view, date,
accession #)
•P6. Date Constructed/Age and
Y Source: ® Historic
-- - l' ❑ Prehistoric ❑ Both
0 C
est. Mid 1920s.
•P7. Owner and Address:
?. Matt Ouaglino 815 Fero
Lane San Luis Obispo. CA
93401 "
*P8.Recorded by: (Name, affiliation, and
address) BBRC. 267 Foothill
Blvd San Luis Obispo, CA
93405
*P9.Date Recorded: 1/10/2000 •P10.Survey Type: (Describe) California Register Nomination
•P11. Report Citation: (Che survey report and other sources,or enter"none.") cultural Resource Investigate on of the
Loa Cabin Parcel Southeast Corner of El Capitan Way and Broad Street SLO CA
*Attachments: ❑NONE ❑Location Map ❑Continuation Sheet ❑Building, Structure, and Object Record
❑Archaeological Record ❑District Record ❑Linear Feature Record ❑Milling Station Record ❑Rock Art Record
❑Artifact Record ❑Photograph Record ❑ Other (List):
DPR 523A (1/95) *Required information
APPENDIX B
Photo
graplis
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Y
Chattel
Architecture,
Planning&
Preservation. CM
Inc.
MEMORANDUM
VIA FEDERAL EXPRESS
DATE: September 18, 2000
TO: Carol Florence
Oasis Landscape Architecture& Planning
FROM: Robert Jay Chattel,AIA and Francesca Smith
RE: "Log Cabin," 811 El Capitan Way/2746 Edna Road, San Luis Obispo
This memorandum was prepared as a follow up to the telephone conversation regarding the Log Cabin
property, on September le with Whitney McIlvaine at the City of San Luis Obispo. While we feel that
our report provides more than adequate documentation evaluating the eligibility of the above-referenced
property,Ms. McIlvaine wanted additional information. As she requested,this memo addresses: 1)
interviews that were conducted in our evaluation of the building,2) interviews that were conducted by
Betsy Bertrando in preparation of her report dated January 10, 2000, and 3) further examination of local
landmark criteria.
We have confidence that Ms.McIlvaine conclusively understood the assessment of Jeanan Saunders,
staff to the State Office of Historic Preservation,that the building clearly did not warrant listing in the
California Register of Historical Places,made at our shared field visit on August 9, 2000.
11 Interviews conducted for our evaluation of the Log Cabin building
Nearly twenty interviews were held with members of the local community to find out more about the
history of the property. Other people were contacted who had no information on the property.The
following list enumerates the persons with whom telephone interviews were conducted regarding the Log
Cabin building by and for Chattel Architecture:
a. At your suggestion,we contacted Roland Maddalena on September 12,2000,and got his
thoughts on the history of the property. He was not able to provide any information that would
modify our report or its findings, but recommended we contact Gerard Parsons(with whom we
had already spoken).
b. Interview and subsequent research by Agent John diAngelo, Bureau of Alcohol,Tobacco and
Firearms(ATF)headquarters in Washington, D.C., on August 25, 2000. ATF inherited the
duties and records of the U.S.Commission of Internal Revenue, the agency responsible for
enforcing federal liquor restrictions during Prohibition.
C. Interview with Murray Hathway, 76-year resident of San Luis Obispo,and great nephew of Log
Cabin owner Amos R."Bud'Hathway in late 1930s and 1940s,August 25,2000.
d. Interview with J.B. Fowler,PE, FAIA,ICBG, Chief Building Official,City of Pasadena,
Department of Planning& Permitting,August 30,2000. Subsequent field investigations of like
properties were made with Mr. Fowler on September 1,2000.
e. Interview with Mike F. Smith, P.E., partner in Lampman& Smith,August 25,2000. Mr. Smith
has been a professional engineer in the San Luis Obispo area for 20 years.
13310 Vallepheart Drive South Shermaa Oaks.CA 91423-3287 818.788.7954 818.788.9795 fax ehatfnl()r hall not
i
f. Interview with Gerard Parsons, long time San Luis Obispo resident by Francesca Smith,August
25,2000. Mr. Parsons is a 64-year veteran in the lumber business. His father owned the San
Luis Milling and Lumber Co. from 1911 until his death. The mill was subsequently owned by
his mother and later co-owned with his brother.
g. Interview with Norm Jackson, former owner of subject property(1975-1979), September 4,
2000. The heavily carved front doors and hinges were fabricated for Mr. Jackson.
Additional interviews were made by telephone that are not referenced in the document. These interviews
were not referenced because they did not provide information that was germane or useful to the
evaluation:
h. Betsy Bertrando, August 15,2000.
i. Melvyn Green, S.E., August 18, 2000. Mr.Green is principal of Melvyn Green&Associates,a
Torrance-based structural engineering firm that specializes in historic resources.
j. Fran Smith Sled in Records department, San Luis Obispo Police Department,August 20,2000.
k. Receptionist, San Luis Obispo Sheriffs department, August 20, 2000, and"C" in Sheriff
Detectives division, September 14,2000.
1. Dorothea Rhodes, long time neighbor of the property,August 25, 2000. Mrs. Rhodes is
referenced in the Bertrando report.
in. Howard Stornetta, long time San Luis Obispo resident,August 28, 2000.
n. Robert Selway,Chief, Orange County Historical Programs, August 28,2000. He was called to
establish whether the Tustin Blimp Hangars have lamella roofs(they do not).
We tried unsuccessfully to locate James Vail's daughter, Lea Vail Black,who lived in Independence,
Missouri,at the time of her father's death. No efforts were made to speak to the Rentz family,as their
ownership, between 1970 and 1975,did not appear to have included major modifications to the building
and thus did not affect its significance.
Our client, Matthew Quaglino also held interviews with local residents whom he thought might be able to
provide information on the history of the building. He was kind enough to provide us with the following
list:
o. Roy Parsons, Gerard Parsons' brother,who knew nothing other than the fact that Vail owed his
father money.
P. Gary Karver, who owned the building for a short time during the early 1980s,prior to its use as
the Log Cabin Theater.
q. Bob Spurgeon,county tax assessor's office staff, who maintains an extensive collection of books
on the history of the community. Mr. Spurgeon could not find any reference to the Log cabin in
his collection.
2) Bertrando report interviews
During last week's conversation,you recommended that we contact all of Mrs.Berteando's referenced
interviewees. Although Matt Quaglino asked Mrs.Bertrando for her files and notes on the project,she
has not provided the information. The following list cites each interviewee and describes whether they
were or were not contacted:
a. Mr. Quaglino and his representatives have contacted a number of Edna Fane Bureau old timers,
and no information that shed light on the building's potential significance was gleaned from
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CM
those communications. He has been and continues to make every effort to locate photographs of
the building in its original configuration(with exterior the original window and door
arrangement).
b. No effort was made to call Eddie Garcia, who is referenced in the Bertrando report. The Garcias
lived nearby from the late 1940s through 1978—which would have been far later than the period
of significance, if the building were significant for illegal activity during Prohibition, 1931 (when
the building was erected)to the end of Prohibition, in late 1933. Adequate information was
located on the activities at the property during the Garcia family's residency.
C. Because Robert Pavlik is on the Cultural Heritage Commission,we thought it would be
inappropriate to contact him.
d. Mr. and Mrs. George Rhodes were contacted(see above).
e. We do not recognize a connection between this building and the Rodriguez adobe,therefore June
Rodrguez was not contacted.
As you can see,we made a concerted and systematic effort to contact people in the local community and
elsewhere,who could provide information on the building, its type of construction and its potential
significance.
3) Local Significance
As clearly stated in our report, based on our review of the history of the building and its associations, it
does not appear to be eligible for local landmark designation.
The building does not appear to meet the historic resource Architectural Criteria under Style:
Criterion I-I The building it is not a pure expression of a traditional style, it is a building
which is clad in false log siding,with a lamella-type roof,which is common in
the local area and elsewhere. The building is actually an obscure and artless
combination of disparate elements—there is no connection or nexus between the
rustic siding and the roof form.
Criterion I-2 As a meeting hall, it is not a rare type in San Luis Obispo. There are at least five
other community meeting buildings in the community: Masonic Temple,
Monday Club,Odd Fellows Hall,Trinity Hall and Veterans Memorial Building.
Each but Trinity Hall is a very good example of their architectural style,and
their original appearances have not been altered, as the Log Cabin has(doors and
windows infilled).
Criterion I-3 The design of the building does not reflect traditional,vernacular or eclectic
influences. The nailed-on log siding and lamella roof do not make the building a
"traditional"building type or the result of an influence. Because log
construction is not a regional building type, it cannot be interpreted as vernacular
(and the building is not true log construction),nor is the lamella roof any
distinctive vernacular type—it was simply an inexpensive way to span a long
distance,used for gymnasia,parking lots, movie theaters and markets. Finally,
the combination of the false log siding and lamella roof cannot be described as
an"eclectic influence" it is simply an odd combination of rustic siding and an
inexpensive roof type.
Criterion I-4 In addition,the much-altered building has not maintained sufficient integrity,
that is someone who knew the building in the early 1930s would not recognize it
as the same building. Since the 1970s,the building has had numerous
modifications, including: permanent infilling of the many exterior windows,
-3-
CM
modifications to the front entrance and deck,additions to the south(side)and
east(rear)elevations of the building, and overpainting the redwood siding
material. In addition,numerous interior alterations were made, including
addition of: low-ceilinged lobby,second floor office, projection booth,and
hundreds of theater seats. The mezzanine has been mostly demolished and the
original fire pole and slide were removed. The stage area was modified with the
following additions: a large fiberglass and plexiglass baptismal font and lighting
and sound equipment, including alteration of a tie-rod to accommodate stage
lights. Because of these many appearance altering modifications,the building
lacks sufficient integrity to be considered for local landmark.
The building does not fulfill any of the Design Criteria:
Criterion 11-1 The building cannot be described as notably attractive or aesthetically appealing,
nor is it unique or artistically meritorious, it does not possess exceptional details
or craftsmanship. It is a large, rectangular building with a segmentally curved ,
roof that has undergone a number of significant modifications.
Criterion II-2 The building was not constructed using particularly fine craftsmanship. It was
erected by a local builder, using an inexpensive siding material that was mass
produced in Fort Bragg. The siding is simply nailed onto the exterior walls.
Criterion II-3 The building is not"an expression of interesting details and eclecticism among
carpenter-builders." It was supply a large plain building,and the only remaining
"detail" is the redwood, false log siding that was widely distributed as a standard
building material.
Criterion III In a community with a large number of significant 19'and early 20te century
buildings,the subject property is undistinguished. Its designation would
effectively"lower the threshold"of what has been designated in the community
and thus demean the significance of those properties. If San Luis Obispo had no
other buildings that dated from before 1935, or there were no local buildings
that held any architectural merit, perhaps the building would be important for its
architecture.
Criterion IV, 1 There is no evidence that the building was designed by an architect.
Criterion V, 1-3 The spatial relationships between the building and its site,environment,and
setting have been much altered throughout its existence. The building never had
strong associations with these elements, particularly the street and creek. As far
as the site has been described, it did not ever possess a specific landscape,most
of the site has been a parking lot throughout the existence of the building. The
building is not a contributor to a district or geographically definable area,
therefore it does not possess Environmental Design Continuity.
Criterion VI, 1-3 The building has no connections to any persons who have contributed
significantly to the history of the community. The original owner was not a
public leader,public servant,or an esteemed member of the community.And the
building's later use as a dance hall,dance studio, bar, meeting hall, disco, movie
theater and church do not have close associations with any single, important
person.
Criterion VII, 1-3 There is no association with any historic events; or evidence of significant illegal
liquor-related activities associated with the property,and such activities were
commonplace in the San Luis Obispo area. As described in this report,the
adaptable building has been variously used as a restaurant, social hall,dance
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venue,theater and church, none of these uses has been long-lived,no significant
event or pattern of events occurred at the building.
Criterion VIII, 1-4 The building is not associated with, nor is it illustrative of predominant patterns
of local history,and the site and building have been altered several times which
diminishes the relationship to its immediate context.
We hope that this responds adequately to the issues Ms. Mcilvaine discussed. Feel free to call us to
discuss this at(818) 788-7954. We look forward to seeing you at the meeting on Monday.
-5-
Chattel
Architecture, CM Planning 8r
Preservation,
Inc.
September 7, 2000
Ms. C.M. Florence, Principal
Oasis Landscape Architecture and Planning
3427 Miguelito Ct.
San Luis Obispo, CA 93401
Re: "Log Cabin," 811 El Capitan Way/2746 Edna Road, San Luis Obispo
Dear Ms. Florence:
Chattel Architecture, Planning&Preservation,Inc. (Chattel Architecture) evaluated the potential
for 811 El Capitan Way/2746 Edna Road' in San Luis Obispo, California(the"subject
property"), for historic resource eligibility under federal, state, and San Luis Obispo landmark
criteria,and the related provisions of the California Environmental Quality Act(CEQA). The
single building on the subject property, currently in use as a church, was historically and is
commonly known as the"Log Cabin." The proposed project involves demolition of the Log
Cabin and redevelopment of the site. Our analysis found the subject property to not possess
requisite significance or integrity to qualify for historic resource designation at the local, state or
national level.
QUALIFICATIONS
Chattel Architecture is a historic preservation consulting fine with a statewide practice. We are
comprised of professionals meeting the Secretary of the Interior's Professional Qualifications
Standards(36 CFR Part 61,Appendix A) in architectural history and historic architecture. The
firm's principal, Robert Jay Chattel,AIA, has 18 years' experience and holds a Bachelor of Arts
in Architecture from the University of California Berkeley (1980) and a Master of Science in
Historic Preservation from Columbia University(1983). The project team included Mr. Chattel
and planner/architectural historian,Francesca Smith. Brief resumes of project team members are
included in attachments hereto (Attachment 1).
METHODOLOGY
We reviewed the January 10,2000 report prepared by Bertrando and Bertrando Research
Consultants(Bertrando). As noted on page 15 of the Bertrando report,assessment of the subject
property's historic resource eligibility could not be made without research and analysis of
developer James B. Vail, and relationship of the subject property to illegal liquor-and
prostitution-related activities in the community.
1 Edna Road is also known as Broad Street and State Route 227.
13310 VaUeyhemi Drive South She=—Oaks,CA 914233287 818.788.7954 818.788.9795fax chattelftcxcbel net
r
Ms. C.M. Florence
Oasis Landscape Architecture and Planning
September 7, 2000 CM
Page 2
A physical inspection of the subject property was made on August 9, 2000. Also on that date,we
met and toured the building and site with representatives of the City of San Luis Obispo and
State Office of Historic Preservation. A chain of title search and additional archival research,
performed at the San Luis Obispo Public Library, included extensive review of city directories
and newspapers. Telephone interviews were conducted with several community members. The
integrity of the building was evaluated using National Register guidance. Although no building
permits were located for the main building or two major additions,this omission did not
constrain the analysis. Historic photographs were sought for a record of the previous appearance
of the building, however none pre-dating 1983 were obtained.
The attached Chronology (Attachment 2) describes in detail history of uses and alterations to the
subject property. It serves as the foundation of this analysis, essential to evaluation of the
historic resource eligibility of the property, and is referenced as if fully set forth herein. The
Chronology is followed by single page r6sum6s of the report preparers (Attachment 1)with
copies of advertisements and articles on the Log Cabin from the local newspaper(Attachments 3
and 4). Other attachments include Record of Survey showing the building on the property
(Attachment 5), Log Comer Notching Systems(Attachment 6), a siding catalog cut sheet
(Attachment 7), 1981 plans for revisions to the building (Attachment 8),a sketch of the building
in its original configuration(Attachment 9), and contemporary photographs of the Log Cabin
(Attachment 10) and comparable properties(Attachment 11).
REVIEW AND APPLICATION OF HISTORIC RESOURCE DESIGNATION AND
ENVIRONMENTAL REVIEW CRITERIA
National&4v ster of Historic Places
Properties may qualify for the National Register if the Keeper of the Register determines that
they meet any of four criteria.Z Resources must possess significance in at least one of four
aspects of American history:
A. Are associated with events that have made a significant contribution to the broad
patterns of history.
B. Are associated with the lives of persons significant in our past.
C. Embody the distinctive characteristics of a type,period, or method of
construction; represent the work of a master; possess high artistic values;or
represent a significant and distinguishable entity whose components may lack
individual distinction.
2 Readers interested in more detail on the criteria and the seven aspects of integrity and their application in
evaluating the historic value of particular properties or districts are encouraged to read National Register Bulletin
15: "How to Apply the National Register Criteria for Evaluation"
r r
Ms. C.M. Florence
Oasis Landscape Architecture and Planning CM September 7, 2000
Page 3
D. Have yielded,or may be likely to yield, [archaeological] information important in
prehistory or history.
The National Register maintains an arbitrary cut-off for eligibility at 50 years of age.
A final component of eligibility is integrity. Integrity is the ability of a property to convey its
significance and whether the property retains the identity for which it is significant. The National
Register criteria recognize seven aspects or qualities of integrity: location, design, setting,
materials,workmanship, feeling,and association.
The Log Cabin does not appear to be eligible for listing in the National Register. The subject
property is not associated with any events that have made a significant contribution to the broad
patterns of history(Criterion A). There is no evidence to corroborate the property's connection
to either illegal liquor-or prostitution-related activities, during or after Prohibition. In addition,
research shows that alcohol was widely available in the San Luis Obispo community throughout
Prohibition. This report has demonstrated that James B. Vail was merely a local builder and
therefore property was not"associated with the li[fe] of[a] person... significant in [the
community's] past"(Criterion B). The property is a large redwood sided building with a
common, lamella-type roof. It is not an authentic log cabin and does not"[e]mbody the
distinctive characteristics of a type,period, or method of construction; represent the work of a
master,possess high artistic values;or represent a significant and distinguishable entity whose
components may lack individual distinction"(Criterion Q. In addition,the property has not and
does not appear likely to yield archaeological information important in prehistory or history
(Criterion D). Furthermore,because of the many significant alterations to the building including
infilling all original fenestration,relocation of doors, and painting the redwood siding with
opaque paint; the building does not possess sufficient integrity to qualify for National Register
consideration.
California Register of Historical Resources
Public Resources Code Section 5024.1 and Section 4852(b) of the California Code of
Regulations provide that in order for a resource to be considered eligible for the California
Register, it must be found by the State Historical Resources Commission; or Office of Historic
Preservation'to be significant at the local, state, or national level under one or more of the
following four criteria:
1. It is associated with events that have made a significant contribution to the broad
patterns of local or regional history, or the cultural heritage of California or the
United States;
3 PRC 5024.1 (e)applies to resources nominated for listing.
4 PRC 5024.1 (g)applies to resources identified as significant in an historical resource survey.
Ms. C.M.Florence
Oasis Landscape Architecture and Planning
September 7,2000 CM
Page 4
2. It is associated with the lives of persons important to local, California,or national
history;
3. It embodies the distinctive characteristics of a type,period,region, or method of
construction,or represents the work of a master or possesses high artistic values;
or
4. It has yielded,or has the potential to yield, (archaeological] information important
to the prehistory or history of the local area, California, or the nation.
California Register Regulations Section 4852(c) also provides that"It is possible that historical
resources may not retain sufficient integrity to meet the criteria for listing in the National
Register, but they may still be eligible for listing in the California Register."
The Log Cabin does not warrant consideration for listing in the California Register. Research
has proven that it does not possess significance at the local, state, or national level under any of
the four applicable criteria. It cannot be demonstrated that the building was"associated with
events that have made a significant contribution to the broad patterns of local or regional history,
or the cultural heritage of California or the United States"(Criterion 1). The property is not
associated with the lives of any persons important to local, California,or national history
(Criterion 2). The building's simulated log siding and lamella roof do not embody "the
distinctive characteristics of a type, period, region, or method of construction,or represent...the
work of a master or possesses high artistic values(Criterion 3). Nor has the property yielded
archaeological information important to the prehistory or history of the local area, California,or
the nation(Criterion 4). Although consideration for the California Register does not have the
same strict integrity requirements as the National Register, the building has been considerably
altered and does not resemble the original design.
Cily of San Luis Obispo: Master List of Historical Resources
As described in Appendix C and E of the City's Historical Preservation Program Guidelines,
properties can be nominated for Historical Resource designation,that is to be added to the Master
List of Historical Resources, by having an application filed with the Community Development
Department. The property must meet the"Delineation of Historical Resource Criteria For
Building Evaluation and Recommendations"in order to qualify for designation.
Evaluations are made on the basis of three Architectural Criteria,including: Style(Criterion I),
Design(Criterion II), and Age (Criterion III). In addition,there are specific "Criteria For
Building Evaluations,"including Architect(Criterion IV), Environmental Design Continuity
(Criterion V),History-Person(Criterion VI),History-Event(Criterion VII), and History Context
Criterion VIII).
Criteria for amending or establishing Historical Preservation Districts are described in the City
Zoning Regulations, Chapter 14.54 as:
Ms. C.M. Florence
Oasis Landscape Architecture and Planning CM September 7,2000
Page 5
1. The property is within an area where buildings with pre-1941 architectural styles
create a recognizable character.
2. The property or area contains structures which are (a)good or excellent examples
of pre-1941 architecture, or(b) were designed by eminent architects or designers,
or(c) are community architectural landmarks.
3. The property or area contains structures that are included in the city's Master List
of Historical Resources.
4. The property, area or structure was owned or occupied by someone who had a
significant role in the history of the city, region or nation.
The subject property does not appear to meet the historic resource Architectural Criteria under
Style,for the following reasons: it is not a pure expression of a traditional style, it is a false log
cabin with a common lamella roof(Criterion I-1); it is not a rare type (meeting hall)or style
(redwood sided, lamella roof) (Criterion I-2); it does not reflect traditional, vernacular or eclectic
influences(Criterion I-3); and the much-altered building has not maintained sufficient integrity
(Criterion I-4). The building does not fulfill any of the Design Criteria: it cannot be described as
notably attractive or aesthetically appealing,nor is it unique or artistically meritorious, it does not
possess exceptional details or craftsmanship(Criterion II-1); the building was not constructed
using particularly fine craftsmanship(Criterion H-2); it is not"an expression of interesting details
and eclecticism among carpenter-builders" (Criterion II-3). In a community with a large number
of significant 19"and early 20'"century buildings,the subject property is undistinguished
(Criterion III). There is no evidence that the building was designed by an architect(Criterion IV-
1 through 4). The spatial relationships between the building and its site, environment, and setting
has been much altered throughout its life. The building never had strong associations with these
elements, particularly the street and creek. It is not a contributor to a district or geographically
definable area,therefore it does not possess Environmental Design Continuity (Criterion V-1
through 3). The building has no connections to any persons who have contributed significantly
to the history of the community(Criterion VI-1 through 3). There is no association with any
historic events;there is no evidence of illegal liquor-related activities associated with the
property, and such activities were commonplace in the San Luis Obispo area. As described in
this report,the adaptable building has been variously used as a restaurant, social hall, dance
venue,theater and church, none of these uses has been long-lived, no significant event or pattern
of events occurred at the building(Criterion VII-1 through 3). The building is not associated
with,nor is it illustrative of predominant patterns of local history,and the site and building have
been altered several tunes which diminishes the relationship to its immediate context(Criterion
VIII-I through 4).
i
Ms. C.M. Florence
Oasis Landscape Architecture and Planning
September 7, 2000 CM
Page 6
California Environmental QlWi(y Act
According to CEQA,
...an historical resource is a resource listed in,or determined eligible for listing in,the
California Register of Historical Resources. Historical resources included in a local
register of historical resources..., or deemed significant pursuant to criteria set forth in
subdivision(g) of Section 5024.1, are presumed to be historically or culturally significant
for purposes of this section, unless the preponderance of the evidence demonstrates that
the resource is not historically or culturally significant(PRC §21084.1).
If the proposed project created substantial adverse changes to historical resources, the
environmental clearance for the project would require mitigation measures to reduce impacts.
"Substantial adverse change in the significance of an historical resource means the physical
demolition, destruction,relocation, or alteration of the resource or its immediate surroundings
such that the significance of an historical resource would be materially impaired"(PRC §15064.5
(b)(1)). PRC §15064.5 (b)(2)describes material impairment taking place when a project:
(A) Demolishes or materially alters in an adverse manner those physical
characteristics of an historical resource that convey its historical significance and
that justify its inclusion in, or eligibility for, inclusion in the California Register...
; or
(B) Demolishes or materially alters in an adverse manner those physical
characteristics that account for its inclusion in a local register... or its
identification in an historical resources survey... unless the public agency
reviewing the effects of the project establishes by a preponderance of evidence
that the resource is not historically or culturally significant; or
(C) Demolishes or materially alters those physical characteristics of an historical
resource that convey its historical significance and that justify its inclusion in,or
eligibility for,inclusion in the California Register... as determined by a lead
agency for the purposes of CEQA.
As proposed,the project would not result in the"physical demolition, destruction,relocation,or
alteration"of any historical resource or adjacent setting because there are no historical resources
nearby. Therefore, no substantial adverse change to historical resources would be caused by the
project.
Ms. C.M. Florence
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Page 7
DETAILED PROPERTY DESCRIPTION AND EVALUATION
Loa Cabin as Sg=kf&U or Roadhouses
Anecdotal rumors have been circulated locally regarding the Log Cabin's early history as a
speakeasy or brothel. No primary documentation or evidence exists that the Log Cabin ever
functioned as a speakeasy business dispensing bootleg alcohol. There has been supposition that
the building, during Vail's ownership,may also have functioned as a brothel. For the building to
possess historic significance predicated on this principle, it would be necessary to document such
a use,as well as prove that the building was significant because of that use.
The Eighteenth Amendment, known as Prohibition or the Volstead Act was instituted on July 1,
1919,and was repealed on December 5, 1933. Prohibition was the federal law that made the
manufacture;transportation, sale and possession of alcoholic beverages illegal, for other than
medicinal or sacramental purposes. Enforcement of Prohibition was loose, home wine- and
cider-making were allowed, and medicinal and sacramental beverages were legal, although the
industry was regulated. Existing wineries, mostly in California, were permitted to sell wine and
5 The following definitions will assist the reader in reviewing the discussion"Log Cabin as Speakeasy or
Roadhouse." All definitions are taken from the online Merriam-Webster Collegiate Dictionary, 2000,unless
otherwise noted.
brothel (brothel)norm, 1593;Etymology:Middle English.Worthless fellow,prostitute,from brothen,
past participle of brethen to waste away,go to ruin,from Old English. brEothan to waste away;
akin to Old English brEotan to break.
A house of prostitution.(New College Edition The American Heritage Dictionary of the English
Language, 1976)
honkey-took (h3[ng1-kE-"t3[nglk)noun, 1909; 1.A usually tawdry nightclub or dance hall;especially one that
features country music. 2. A district marked by places of cheap entertainment.
Prohibition (pr6' 9-bash'an)noun,nd;The forbidding by law of the manufacture,transportation,sale and
possession of alcoholic beverages.
The period...during which such a law was in force in the United States. (New College Edition The American
Heritage Dictionary of the English Language, 1976)
roadhouse (rOd-"haus)noun, 1857; An inn or tavern usually outside city limits providing liquor and usually
meals,dancing,and often gambling.
speakeasy (spEk-"E-zE)noun, 1889;A place where alcoholic beverages are illegally sold;specifically,such
a place during the period of prohibition in the U.S.
1
Ms. C.M. Florence
Oasis Landscape Architecture and Planning EM September 7, 2000
Page 8
champagne abroad and were bonded by the federal governmenO Prohibition enforcement agents
were notoriously corrupt,a large number were terminated for"...bribery,extortion,theft,
violation of the National Prohibition Act, falsification of records, conspiracy,perjury and other
causes."' A number of interview sources confirmed that James B. Vail's brother,John(later a
partner in the Log Cabin business)was a Revenue Agent(federal representative charged with
enforcing Prohibition). If James Vail's brother, John was indeed a federal agent,a connection
between the Vail brothers in a bootlegging business would be less-than-significant and not
unique.
At the time, local San Luis newspapers often ran stories chronicling the adventures of federal
agents,describing arrests and illegal liquor operations in great detail. A systematic search of
local newspapers between 1930 and 1933 revealed no articles describing the arrest or
investigation-of James B. Vail,nor illegal activities at the Log Cabins The Bureau of Alcohol
Tobacco and Firearms (ATF)Headquarters was contacted for records on James B. Vail,none
were located.' In the early 1930s,there were a number of advertisements in local newspapers for
dances and parties being held at the Log Cabin,it is assumed that true speakeasy operations
would not advertise in newspapers. In addition,there were a number of society page articles
describing parties and events at the building, including detailed accounts of the nature of the
events,who attended and what was wom. If such events at the Log Cabin involved illegal
activities,it is unlikely these events would have been announced or described in print.
Furthermore, bootlegging activities were not rare in the San Luis Obispo community. Long time
San Luis resident Murray Hathway recently described"a number of prominent area families...
[being] involved with bootlegging"during prohibition.10 He said that wine and spirits-related
6 Doris Muscatine,Maynard Amerine and Bob Thomson,eds. The University of California/Sotheby Book
of California Wine. (Berkeley: University of California Press/Sotheby Publications, 1984)56.
7 U.S.National Commission on Law Observance&Enforcement. Report on the Enforcement of the
Prohibition Laws of the United States. (Washington,DC.:Government Printing Office, 1931).
s Researchers checked both the San Luis Obispo Telegram-Tribune and Daily Telegram for articles(and
advertisements)regarding activities at the Log Cabin,arrest records,and activities related to Prohibition and
prostitution in the community,between May of 1930,when the Log Cabin opened for business and 1933,when
Prohibition was repealed
' Telephone interview and subsequent research by Agent John diAngelo,Bureau of Alcohol,Tobacco
and Firearms(ATF)Headquarters,by Francesca Smith,August 25,2000. ATF inherited the duties and records of
the US Commission of Internal Revenue,the agency responsible for enforcing federal liquor restrictions during
Prohibition.
to Telephone interview of Murray Hathway,76-year resident of San Luis Obispo,and great nephew of
Log Cabin owner Amos R."Bun"Hathway in late 1930s and 1940s,by Francesca Smith,August 25,2000.
0
Ms. C.M. Florence
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September 7, 2000
3
Page 9
activity was "very common in the area,"particularly among the Italian, Swiss,and Portugese
farmers. This type of use was common throughout the nation,an article in"The Foreign Born
and Prohibition,"Constantine Palumbo described immigrant families who"drank... with their
meals by custom,and many... made their own [wine and spirits] in their homelands." " Mr.
Hathway described a local dairy farmer who openly filled his cream cans with homemade liquor
which he shipped via rail to his brother in San Francisco. So, bootlegging and alcohol-related
activities were common in the area at the time. In conclusion, there is no documented
association among James B. Vail, the Log Cabin and bootlegging operations. Furthermore, if the
Log Cabin had been associated with such activity,this would not necessarily make the property
important locally,regionally or nationally as such activities were widespread
The alleged use of the building as a bordello similarly did not yield any published records. There
is no published record regarding prostitution activity, raids or arrests being made at the subject
property. In fact,the original plan of the building, one large rectangular room with a mezzanine,
does not easily lend itself to use for prostitution. Generally, brothels are depicted as having a
lobby/living room/reception area, and a number of private bedrooms used for business
transactions. The fact that the Log Cabin was essentially a single open, large room would not
physically lend itself to the operation of a bordello.
Description-Exterior
The building is rectangular in plan,two stories in height, and has a segmentally curved roof. It is
approximately twice as long as it is wide,and is clad in half-width,redwood, false log siding.
The roof-wall junction has no eaves, and the front comers of the building feature cornerboards.
The west,or main fagade has a slender,two story chimney, set just south of the center,comprised
of uncut stone, set in random courses. The chimney material is indigenous, or local stone,is
wider at the base than the flue. The asymmetrical chimney culminates in a course of irregular
stone at the top, creating rough pinnacles. A double door entry (two single leaves, set close
together) is located on the same gable wall,protected by a simple, low sloping, gabled pediment.
The redwood doors are single panel,with plain rustic carving and hammer motif hinges. There is
a glazed,by-pass message board next to the main entry. A single door of the same type occupies
the bay on the other side of the chimney. Above the canopy a simple sign reads "House of
Prayer"with a small decorative medallion above. A raised concrete deck wraps around the north
and west sides, with a comer stair, a ramp (at the south end), and simple wood railing. There is
a small,flat-r000fed, single story addition at the rear(east)elevation,and a one story,shed
roofed addition runs the length of the south side. The roof is finished in built-up roofing. Refer
to Attachment 10.
11 Constantine Palumbo. "The Foreign Born and Prohibition,"Annals of the American Academy of
Political and Social Science,September 1932,947-154.
Ms. C.M. Florence
Oasis Landscape Architecture and Planning CM September 7,2000
Page 10
DescriRtion-Interior
The building is entered through a small, single story lobby. The lobby has a low ceiling,with
hewn beams and there is a large,overpainted,native stone fireplace on the exterior wall. A
narrow enclosed stair on the north side leads to a second floor office. The office is nearly the
same size as the lobby, but has a higher ceiling. A smaller office has been subdivided on the
south end. A contiguous small film projection booth is also on the second level,toward the
center of the building.
The main area of the building is a large,two story volume,with an open,curved ceiling. The
lamella roof framing forms a simple, irregular, diamond-shaped pattern on the ceiling and there
are lateral tie-rods with turnbuckle braces at intervals at the tops of the walls. The room is
arranged with two aisles separating straight rows of upholstered theater seats and low,raised
stage at the east end. The main floor is finished in maple. The stage has a few different levels,
and a low non-continuous wall. At the rear center,there is a large, fiberglass and plexiglass
baptismal font.
On the south side of the building there is an addition featuring a food service area, and smaller
rooms toward the west end. The addition has banks of multi-light windows which run nearly its
length.
A double loaded hall leads to a rear(stage)door, and turns a corner leading to a pair of multi-
stall restrooms, and a small additional room.
Lamella Roof
The building has a lamella roof. According to the Academic Press Dictionary of Science &
Technology,the word lamella"... in building engineering,means any of a series of wood,metal,
or reinforced-concrete members joined in a crisscross pattern, forming a vault." It is further
described as"a series of parallel arches, skewed with respect to the sides of the rectangular
covered area... intersected by another series of skew arches so that an efficient interaction is
obtained between them." The word is taken from naturally occurring crystal formations that the
roof structure resembles.
The roof seems to have been developed in the mid 1920s and was most popular during the
second World War for use as hangar roofs. During its heyday in the mid-20m century,the lamella
roof was considered"an inexpensive way to span a moderate distance (75 to 100 feet)." 12 Some
12 Telephone interview with J.B.Fowler,PE,FAIR,ICBO,Chief Building Official,City of Pasadena,
Department of Planning&Permitting,by Francesca Smith,August 30,2000.
Ms. C.M. Florence
Oasis Landscape Architecture and Planning CM September 7, 2000
Page 11
of the most dramatic examples of lamella roofs were concrete hangars and stadia designed by
noted designer Pier Luigi Nervi,some of which spanned more than 1,000 feet"
The shape of the roof is described by an local professional engineer as "very common"in the San
Luis Obispo area. He cited other local buildings with similar roof forms, including the
downtown County Parking Garage, Old Gymnasium at Cuesta College,Fremont Theater,"and
Gymnasium at Camp Roberts. Because of the continued existence of these other area buildings
featuring lamella roofs,the building has a relatively common roof type, locally. In addition,the
roof is a very common building feature in the region, with numerous examples in the Los
Angeles metropolitan area's
"Log"Finished Exterior
Although the building has been called the Log Cabin from time to time throughout its history,
that designation is a misnomer. The building is actually wood framed, with redwood log-shaped
sections affixed to the exterior as a cladding or finish material, similar to shiplap or clapboard
siding. The siding was fabricated by the Redwood Manufacturing Company,in Fort Bragg,
which ceased operations in 1980.16 Refer to Attachment 7 for similar log siding material. Vail
ordered the siding through the San Luis Mill& Lumber Co.,the company that provided all of the
lumber used in construction of the subject building." Refer to Attachment 10, frame E.
For the Log Cabin building finish material,redwood logs were split lengthwise,the final product
was approximately one-half of a log. Flanges and grooves were cut on the top and bottom of the
boards in a consistent method. It typically laid-up in stacked,horizontal rows, and is nailed to
13 Mario Salvadori. Structure In Architecture. (Englewood Cliffs: Prentice-Hall,Inc., 1963) 198.
According to The Works of Pier Luigi Nervi,his most notable lamella roofed designs include Italian air force
hangars(1935,and 1939-41,destroyed in World War II),numerous sports stadia in Florence and Rome(1930-60),
and exhibition hall at Turin(1949).
" Telephone conversation with Mike F.Smith,P.E.,partner in Lampman&Smith,by Francesca Smith on
August 25,2000. Mr.Smith has been a professional engineer in the San Luis Obispo area for 20 years.
15 Some examples of buildings with lamella roofs in the Los Angeles metropolitan area:Los Angeles
County+USC Medical Center Central Files Building,Michael's/The Derby Restaurant,and Webber's Bread
Building. There are at least three lamella roofed buildings on Colorado Boulevard in Pasadena:Starlight Skating
Rink(now vacant),Colorado Theater,and a nearby thrift store.
16 Telephone conversation with Gerard Parsons,long time San Luis Obispo resident by Francesca Smith,
August 25,2000. Mr.Parsons is a 64-year veteran in the lumber business. His father owned the San Luis Milling
and Lumber Co.from 1911 until his death. The mill was subsequently owned by his mother and later co-owned
with his brother.
17 Parsons.
Ms. C.M.Florence
Oasis Landscape Architecture and Planning EM September 7,2000
Page 12
the building frame. A similar"log"siding was manufactured in six,eight and ten-inch wide
dimensions. The redwood siding was a stock or standard material,which was dressed in a
conventional manner to remove bark and impart a uniform appearance to an otherwise random
material.
The building was not originally and has never been,a"log cabin." Log house construction can
be traced to Scandinavian origins in the Viking period, approximately 1000 to 800 AD.18 Log
construction was historically limited to one or two rooms, called"pens." As originally designed
and constructed,the subject building was a single large room with a mezzanine. It was
subsequently subdivided into additional smaller rooms and additions were added to the south and
east sides,enlarging and distorting the original rectangular footprint. Refer to Attachment 5.
True log construction consists of hewn logs,placed horizontally (laid one on top of the other),
and most importantly"held together by carefully interlocking or notching the squared timbers
where they join.. at the corners of the buildings.s 19 The comers of an authentic log building
would exhibit one of five basic,log comer, carved, notching systems. Refer to Attachment 6. At
the comers,the finish material variously has comerboards and is fit together at 90-degree angles,
or mitred. The subject building does not have the critical feature that would make it log
construction: interlaced logs at the comers. It is not the work of an artisan or a particularly
skilled carpenter. The redwood cladding that gave the building its name was a standard siding
material and its existence does not make the building an authentic or true"log cabin."
As it was originally constructed,the siding was untreated, or perhaps had a clear stained or oiled
finish. In the late 1980s,the siding is said to have been overpainted, and the paint finish
remains. Overpainting the siding diminishes integrity, or ability of the property to impart its
original appearance, much like overpainting a brick or stone building. Because of the porous
nature of the siding,overpainting on surfaces such as redwood is most likely irreversible.
IntegritX
Historic integrity is defined by the National Park Service as"the authenticity of a property's
identity,evidenced by the survival of physical characteristics that existed during the property's
historic period."20 For a property's integrity to remain,the physical characteristics that made it
18 Mary Mix Foley,The American House. (New York:Harper Colophron Books: 1980)49. The ancient
Norse name for this single room,windowless basic shelter was"eld-hus,"meaning fire or hearth house. The
English word house is thought to be derived from this term.
19 Virginia and Lee McAlester. A Field Guide To American Houses. (New York:Alfred A.Knopf: 199 1)
36,82,83.
20 US Department of the Interior,National Park Service. "Guidelines for Completing National Register
of Historic Places Forms" 1991:Appendix IV,2.
Ms. C.M. Florence
Oasis Landscape Architecture and Planning
September 7,2000
Page 13
important during its historic or significant period must be present. For a property to qualify for
inclusion on the National Register, it must possess some combination of the following seven
aspects of integrity: location,design, setting, materials, workmanship, feeling and association.
Neither the California Register nor the local ordinance meaningfully address the question of
integrity. Use of National Register integrity standards is necessary because it is the only
substantive written guidance on the subject.
The most significant alterations that have been made to the subject building are: permanent
infilling of the many exterior windows,modifications to the front entrance and deck,additions to
the south(side)and east(rear) elevations of the building, and overpainting the redwood siding
material. Refer to Attachments 8, 9 and 10.
On the interior,a small lobby with a low ceiling has been created, a second floor office was
added, a projection booth remains (from the period the building was operated as a theater), and
hundreds of upholstered theater seats were added during the theater period. The mezzanine has
been, for the most part,been removed,and the original fire pole and slide no longer exist. The
main stage area has been modified over the years, currently a large fiberglass and plexiglass
baptismal font occupies the rear center of the stage, and a large amount of lighting and sound
equipment has been added(including alteration of a tie-rod to accommodate stage lighting).
The side,or south elevation has a single story, lean-to addition. It has a shed roof, and
continuous multi-light windows. The south addition obscures the entire first floor of the south
elevation and there is no extant or original log siding on the south elevation. At the rear, or east
elevation,there is a single story, lean-to addition that covers most of the end wall. It is flat
roofed,has a large amount of HVAC equipment above, and forms a right angle to meet the side
addition.
Plans prepared in 1981 for modifications to Station 51" show a number of significant alterations,
and/or existing conditions that no longer remain. The no longer extant features include: a double
door main entrance on north elevation,at least 13 exterior windows (now infilled or removed) on
the north and east elevations, and a two story exterior stair on the west elevation. Other changes
include: demolition of original front entry canopy roof on the north elevation and of a chimney
on north side of the rear addition; existing wrap-around entrance deck modified,handrail being
removed and replaced,new concrete steps built at north(original) entrance. Numerous interior
modifications were made,consisting of: removal of mezzanine at stage area; new mezzanine
supports added,and construction of walls circumscribing stage and office areas.
It can be assumed that the windows were infilled for the theater use, which began circa 1982.
The same log siding was used to infill the window areas, so although the modification is not
21 Steven Pults,AIA."Plans for Station 51" 2746 Edna Road.September 8, 1981. sheets A-1,-2 and-3.
Ms. C.M.Florence
Oasis Landscape Architecture and Planning
September 7, 2000 CM
Page 14
undetectable,the siding appears to be continuous,but there are"breaks"where the windows once
were. Most likely, the original siding was removed from the south elevation(where none now
exists)and reused to infill the window openings. Refer to Attachment 9.
Compadson of Comparable Properties
The subject property was compared against other related properties because, as a public meeting
hall, it is not a rare or unique property type in San Luis Obispo. In addition,the building does
not clearly possess the defined characteristics required to strongly represent the social hall
context. National Register guidance recommends evaluation of the property by comparison to
comparable buildings in the same context. The Log Cabin as a meeting hall is not the first,nor
do its physical features make it a rare property type within the community (refer to Lamella Roof
discussion). Its design is not distinctive nor significant,and the much altered building does not .
convey the integrity of its original design.
There are at least five other public meeting hall buildings in the San Luis Obispo area. They are
listed in the table below and depicted in Attachment 11:
Name Address Serial Number'
Masonic Temple 859 Marsh Street 0123-03C
Monday Club 1815 Monterey Street 0137-03C
Odd Fellows Hall 520 Dana Street na
Trinity Hall 6565 Broad Street na
Veterans Memorial Building 801 Grand Avenue na
* Serial number from the Master List of Historic Resources,adopted July 1983,updated December 1990.
Among the other five buildings,two were found to appear eligible for inclusion in the National
Register. Based on a recent windshield survey,the Odd Fellows Hall appears to be locally
significant, and may qualify for listing in the California Register because of its distinctive
Streamline Moderne/Spanish Eclectic design. The Veterans Memorial Building,while not 50
years of age, also appears to be architecturally significant, at least at the local level,and when it
attains the requisite age, should be evaluated more completely. Trinity Hall,while it has strong
cultural significance to the Portugese community,has been significantly altered. Therefore, of
the five comparable properties,two have been previously evaluated as eligible for historic
resource designation and two should be further evaluated for historic significance.
"Log Cabin"
811 El Capitan Way/2746 Edna Road,San Luis Obispo
The consultant's analysis found the subject property to not possess requisite significance
or integrity to qualify for historic resource designation at the local, state or national level.
The Log Cabin building does not appear to be eligible for listing in the National Register
of Historic Places because:
• It is not associated with any events that have made a significant contribution to the
broad patterns of history (Criterion A).
• The developer,James B. Vail was merely a local builder and therefore property was
not"associated with the life] of[a] person.. significant in [the community's] past"
(Criterion B).
• It is a large redwood sided building with a common,lamella-type roof,not an
authentic log cabin and therefore does not"[e]mbody the distinctive characteristics of
a type,period,or method of construction; represent the work of a master,possess high
artistic values; or represent a significant and distinguishable entity whose components
may lack individual distinction"(Criterion Q.
• It has not and does not appear likely to yield archaeological information important in
prehistory or history (Criterion D).
Furthermore,because of the significant alterations to the building, it does not possess
sufficient integrity to qualify for National Register consideration.
The building does not appear to qualify for listing in the California Register, because it
does not possess significance at the local, state, or national level under any of the four
applicable criteria:
• It cannot be demonstrated that the building was"associated with events that have
made a significant contribution to the broad patterns of local or regional history,or
the cultural heritage of California or the United States"(Criterion 1).
• The property is not associated with the lives of any persons important to local,
California, or national history (Criterion 2).
• The building's simulated log siding and lamella roof do not embody "the distinctive
characteristics of a type,period,region, or method of construction, or represent... the
work of a master or possesses high artistic values(Criterion 3).
• The property has not yielded archaeological information important to the prehistory or
history of the local area,California, or the nation(Criterion 4).
Although consideration for the California Register does not have the integrity
requirements as required by the National Register,the building has been considerably
altered and does not resemble the original design.
For local designation,the building does not appear to meet the historic resource
Architectural Criteria under Style,because:
it is not a pure expression of a traditional style, it is a false log cabin with a common
lamella roof(Criterion I-1);
• it is not a rare type(meeting hall)or style(redwood sided, lamella roof) (Criterion I-
2);
• it does not reflect traditional,vernacular or eclectic influences(Criterion I-3); and
• the much-altered building has not maintained sufficient integrity(Criterion I-4).
The building does not fulfill any of the Design Criteria:
it cannot be described as notably attractive or aesthetically appealing,nor is it unique or
artistically meritorious, it does not possess exceptional details or craftsmanship(Criterion
II-1);
the building was not constructed using particularly fine craftsmanship (Criterion H-2); it
is not"an expression of interesting details and eclecticism among carpenter-builders"
(Criterion II-3).
In a community with a large number of significant 19°i and early 20'b century buildings,
the subject property is undistinguished(Criterion III).
There is no evidence that the building was designed by an architect(Criterion IV-1
through 4).
The spatial relationships between the building and its site, environment, and setting has
been much altered throughout its life. The building never had strong associations with
these elements,particularly the street and creek. It is not a contributor to a district or
geographically definable area,therefore it does not possess Environmental Design
Continuity (Criterion V-1 through 3).
The building has no connections to any persons who have contributed significantly to the
history of the community(Criterion VI-1 through 3).
There is no association with any historic events; there is no evidence of illegal liquor-
related activities associated with the property, and such activities were commonplace in
the San Luis Obispo area As described in this report,the adaptable building has been
variously used as a restaurant, social hall, dance venue,theater and church,none of these
uses has been long-lived,no significant event or pattern of events occurred at the building
(Criterion VII-1 through 3).
The building is not associated with,nor is it illustrative of predominant patterns of local
history,and the site and building have been altered several times which diminishes the
relationship to its immediate context(Criterion VIII-1 through 4).
In that the building is not a historical resource under CEQA,the proposed project would
not result in the`physical demolition, destruction, relocation, or alteration'of any
historical resource or adjacent setting. Therefore,no substantial adverse change to
historical resources would be caused by the project.
Ms. C.M. Florence
Oasis Landscape Architecture and Planning
September 7,2000 CM
Page 15
CONCLUSION
In conclusion, the proposed project would not cause substantial adverse changes to any historical
resource. The subject property is not a historical resource, and would not be affected by any
proposed project,therefore no historical resources impacts under CEQA are expected.
Should you have any questions, please call (818) 788-7954.
Very truly yours,
CHATTEL ARCHITECTURE, PLANNING&PRESERVATION, INC.
By: L �
RcPbert Ja C ttel, AIA
1 \
CZ3
LIST OF ATTACHMENTS
1. Single page rdsumds of Robert Jay Chattel,AIA and Francesca G. Smith
2. Chronology
3. "Formal Opening of Log Cabin on Wednesday"Daily Telegram. 4 May 1931: page 3
4. Advertisement for opening of the Log-Cabin [sic] Daily Telegram. 4 May 1931: page 4
5. Record of Survey, prepared by Wilson Land Surveys, annotated to show the approximate
location, size and layout of the building on the property,November 1999 and September
2000
6. Log Comer Notching Systems, excerpted from Virginia and Lee McAlester. A Field
Guide To American Houses. (New York: Alfred A. Knopf. 1991)page 36
7. "Siding"catalog cut sheet
8. "Plans for Station 5 V by Steven D. Pults, AIA, 2746 Edna Road. September 8, 1981.
sheets A-1 through A-3, note windows clearly shown on first and second floors, as well
as no longer extant portions of the mezzanine
9. Sketch of Log Cabin building depicting original arrangement of doors and windows,
based on Pults' plans and physical inspection, prepared by Chattel Architecture,2000
10. Contemporary Photographs of Log Cabin Building
11. Photographs of Comparable Properties
Chattel
Architecture,
PIanning&
Preservation,
Inc.
ROBERT JAY CHATTEL,AIA
Preservation Architect
Robert Jay Chattel,AIA has over 18 years' experience in the fields of planning,design,and
construction. Mr. Chattel's unique qualifications include: meeting the Secretary of the Interior's
Professional Qualifications Standards in architectural history and historic architecture, and;
licensure as both a general contractor and architect in California. He specializes applying the
Secretary of the Interior's Standards for Treatment and interpreting Federal, state and local
historic preservation law and regulations.
As director of programs for the LA Conservancy,he developed walking tours and brochures. As
project planner for the LA Community Redevelopment Agency, he managed development within
two National.Register districts in downtown Los Angeles. As a real estate developer with H.T.
Greene,he handled projects ranging from single-family tract developments to high-rise
commercial office buildings. Following the Northridge earthquake,Mr. Chattel conducted a
National Register eligibility review of over 1,000 earthquake-damaged buildings for the
California State Office of Historic Preservation.
Mr. Chattel holds a B.A. degree in Architecture from U.C. Berkeley and a M.S. degree in
Historic Preservation from Columbia University. In 1997, he initiated a popular series of courses
in historic preservation for UCLA Extension.
In 1991,Mr. Chattel received the California Preservation Foundation's President's Award for his
work on the Beverly Hills Waterworks and the expansion and renovation of the Los Angeles
Central Library. Most recently,Mr. Chattel received a regional American Planning Association
Focused Issue Planning Award for City of Orange, Local CEQA Guidelines for Historic
Resources.
Continuing a relationship established on the Central Library project, Mr. Chattel has partnered
with Mellon&Associates on a variety of survey,documentation and strategic planning projects.
These projects have included preparation of an historical assessment and artifacts inventory of
the Regina Winery in Rancho Cucamonga,nomination of the San Bernardino County Court
House to the National Register of Historic Places, consultation on a specific plan for
development of underutilized property surrounding the Hotel del Coronado, and representation of
the University of Southern California on sale of the Embassy Hotel and Auditorium. Dr. Knox
Mellon and Mr. Chattel currently represent Lennar Mare Island, LLC,master developer in reuse
of over 500 historic resources at the former Mare Island Naval Shipyard in Vallejo.
As a volunteer board member of the Jewish Historical Society of Southern California,Mr.
Chattel directs physical assessment, planning and design for rehabilitation of the Breed Street
Shul,a historic former synagogue, in East Los Angeles. An official White House Millennium
Council"Save America's Treasures"project,the collaborative effort of Latino and Jewish
communities to create a museum, cultural and educational center is being recognized as a model
for community-based historic preservation.
Chattel
Architecture,
Planning&
Preservation, CM
Inc.
F'RANCESCA G. SMITH
Planner/Architectural Historian
Francesca Smith has 15 years of experience in the fields of planning,design review, and
construction management. Mrs. Smith's qualifications include: meeting the Secretary of the
Interior's Professional Qualifications Standards in architectural history, and qualification as an
Architectural Historian by Caltrans. She has broad experience applying the Secretary of the
Interior's Standards for Treatment(Secretary's Standards) and interpreting Federal, state and
local historic preservation law and regulations.
Mrs. Smith holds a M.S. in Real Estate Development with a historic preservation focus from
Columbia University, and a B.A. in Political Science with a minor concentration in architectural
history from.The College of Charleston(South Carolina). Mrs. Smith recently presented at Los
Angeles Central Library on"Los Angeles River Bridges: Past,Present& Future"with Clark
Robins in the LA City Historical Society lecture series. She has lectured with Robert Chattel and
others for UCLA extension courses on historic preservation practice and theory, the history of
Los Angeles water and railroads,and construction management. In addition, she has performed
design review for the cities of Los Angeles and Pasadena, as Historical Property Contract
Manager for the Cultural Affairs Department of the City of Los Angeles, and as a planner for the
Design& Historic Preservation section at the City of Pasadena.
Her relevant project experience includes preparation of environmental documentation for public
agencies(shown in parentheses),including: East Central Interceptor Sewer(SCIS)EIR(City of
Los Angeles, Bureau of Engineering), 1351-53, 1357-59 South Alvarado Street and 1336-38
South Hoover Street and Adeante Eastside Redevelopment Project(CRA), Del Amo Boulevard
Overcrossing, (City of Carson,Caltrans,Federal Highway Administration,FHWA),and Mid-
City Red Line Extension (Final Supplemental EISIEIR) (MTA, FTA). She has evaluated the
following bridge rehabilitations,relocations, seismic retrofits and bridge designs for compliance
with the Secretary's Standards: Fletcher Drive Bridge(currently in progress),North
Broadway/Buena Vista Viaduct,and Olympic Boulevard Bridge (all for the City of LA, Bureau
of Engineering,Department of Public Works); Rehabilitation of Rock Creek Bridge(with
construction of adjacent new bridge),and Relocation of Duck Creek Bridge(both for Dallas Area
Rapid Transit,DART). Mrs Smith has conducted thousands of bridge evaluations for Section
106 compliance, including: Alameda Corridor(Alameda Corridor Transportation Authority),
Barham Cahuenga Improvements Project Historic Resource Evaluation Report(City and County
of LA, City of Burbank,Caltrans,Federal Transit Administration,FTA), Conrail/Norfolk
Southern and Union Pacific/Southern Pacific railroad mergers,(Surface Transportation Board),
Northeast Corridor Environmental Assessment and North Central Corridor DEIS, (both for
DART),Mt.Vernon Bridge,(City of San Bernardino), Main Street Viaduct, (City of Barstow),
and Interstate-10 High Occupancy Vehicle Project(Caltrans,FHWA).
She is a member of the Board of Directors of the Los Angeles City Historical Society and serves
as its Preservation Officer. Mrs. Smith previously served on the board of the Society of
Architectural Historians/Southern California Chapter.
CHRONOLOGY
The following chronology is an abstract of events related to the subject property. A number of
complex transactions are described herein, although certain brief transfers of the property may
not be included. This timeline represents the most objective,complete and accurate overview
prepared for the subject property.
1885 James Benjamin Vail is born to Victoria and James H. Vail in Canada'
1906 Map of San Luis County Suburban Tract, lot 104(subject property)is recorded
on February 6 .
1919 On July 1", Prohibition is instituted.'
circa 1921 James B. Vail arrives in California
1930 On October 16'e, sale of lots 103, 104 and 105 of the San Luis County
Suburban Tract to James B. Vail by Nancy C. Rose is recorded. The
consideration amount is $10.
1930 Alice Louise"Dagmar"Vail, wife of James B.Vail (at the time), transfers
seven properties, including the subject property,to James B. Vail by quitclaim
on the 2'of December.
May, 1931 The Log Cabin opens as a dining and dancing facility on Wednesday, May 6 .
In an article entitled"Formal Opening Of Log Cabin On Wednesday,"the
building is described. It is furnished with"a slide,a fireman's pole and ladder
[are] provided in the hall for those who do not care to use the stairs to the dance
floor from the balcony, and these are also a source of entertainment for the
guests:'3 Refer to Attachment 3.
May, 1931 A large advertisement featuring elegant art work describes"...the most gala
opening [sic] of anything of this type,"with dinner for"$2.50 per plate,"and
"Gentlemen$1.00... Ladies 50¢"admission! Refer to Attachment 4.
' County of San Luis Obispo.Certificate of Death. June 1, 1965.
' Volstead Act 18'"Amendment to the United States Constitution.
3 "Formal Opening of Log Cabin on Wednesday"Daily Telegram. 4 May 1931:3.
° classified advertisement. Daily Telegram. 4 May 1931:4.
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CM
May, 1931 A surprise birthday patty is held in honor of Miss Dolly Martin's 17ie birthday
on May 6". The event is organized by three local matrons the guest list is
exhaustively enumerated in the local paper on the society page. The formal
party is described as having"a charming air."S
June, 1931 Classified advertisement in the local paper: "DANCE and Dine, Log Cabin
Wednesday night. Music by Log Cabin Seranaders."6
July, 1931 Announcement for"Dance at the Log Cabin,"to be held"every Wednesday
and Saturday,"with a dance prize of"A Dancing Elephant Given Free to the
Best Dancers"as well as other prizes. The Saturday "all night dance" is
enthusiastically described as"fun for all"with"special music."
August, 1931 "Whoopee Dance"advertized in the local newspaper for the night of August
8". The evening includes $1. admission, with"music by Seranaders"and not
only"Ladies Free,"but promises"PRIZES and GIFTS for Every Lady.ss
October, 1931 Newspaper advertisement for an"all night carnival dance...at the Log Cabin"
discloses that it is"Under New Management."9
1931 Newspaper announcement"Log Cabin will be the scene of one of the jolly New
Years eve parties ... plans are being made for one of the most enjoyable social
functions of the winter season. A supper dance is being announced by Ray
Bailey and Cush Branch, who have recently taken over management of the
popular dance hall." 10
1932 Judgement made against James B.Vail for$634.37, on January 12, 1932 for
San Luis Furniture Company.
5 "Surprise Birthday Party is Charming Event at Log Cabin" Daily Telegram. 6 May 1931:2.
6 classified advertisement. Daily Telegram. 17 June 1931:3.
7 advertisement. Daily Telegram. 29 July 1931:3.
8 advertisement. Daily Telegram. 8 August 1931:4.
9 advertisement Daily Telegram. 24 October 1931:np.
10 "Log Cabin to Feature Supper Dance New Years." Daily Telegram. 31 December 1931:np.
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i
1932 Victory luncheon held at a Paso Robles area Methodist church to celebrate the
twelfth anniversary of Prohibition."
1932 "Collegiate Dance at the Log Cabin" is advertised in the local paper"every
Friday night." Prices are"Shieks 50¢, Co-eds Free, Extra lady 25¢,"although
there is no definition of what an"extra lady"might be. On the same page as
that advertisement,there is a small announcement"For Rent By Night: Log
Cabin- Parties banquets, dances, etc. Accommodate 500 people. Phone Mr.
Vail 2074:1 12
1933 Incorporated clubs publicly claim that their incorporated status makes them
eligible to sell liquor. Local authorities throughout the state are nevertheless
urged to act immediately against such businesses which violate the law.13
1933 Prohibition is repealed on December 5'.
1933 Odd Fellows and Rebekahs hold their annual dance at the Log Cabin. An
advertisement features "Turkey Prizes" and music by the Paramount Dance
Band.14
1935 Articles of Incorporation are filed for the non-profit"Log Cabin Country Club"
by J. Ben Vail, John H. Vail, J.W. Kimball,and W.C. Kelsey, " all citizens of
San Luis Obispo County. Among the purposes for which the club was formed,
it was:
(1)To provide, solely for use of the members thereof, club rooms,bar
rooms,card rooms,rest rooms,reading rooms, where the members thereof
may engage in any and all lawful games and amusements; swimming
pools, golf courses,tennis courts,riding horses, and facilities for all other
sports.
(2) To prohibit any unlawful games or other unlawful conduct on any
premises owned, leased, or controlled by said corporation.
11 "Less Drinking Says Teacher." Daily Telegram. 18 January 1932: 1.
12 advertisement. Daily Telegram. 8 April 1932:np.
13 "Speakeasies Raided by Officers of State Board" Daily Telegram. 8 December 1933: 1.
14 advertisement. Daily Telegram. 8 December, 1933:np.
13 Log cabin Country Club. Articles oflncorporation. dated June 26, 1935,filed June 28, 1935.
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i
1936 James B. Vail and(new)wife Lorene J. Vail make a Declaration of Homestead
on the subject property on February 3'.
1936 Vail is released from San Luis Furniture Company judgement on August 266.
circa 1938 Subject property is foreclosed on by Amos Reilly "Bun" Hathway, long time
local cattleman. Mr. Hathway soon dies and the property is operated by his
estate.16
1938 The Log Cabin on Edna Road is listed in the County Directory under
"restaurants '
1942 Vail and wife Lorraine are listed in the city directory living at Vail's Villas.
1940-1950 The Log Cabin functions as"a regular, old-time dance hall"with dance
hostesses and a saloon,operated by Bun's son, Cam Hathway" The hall is
frequented by soldiers stationed at nearby Camp San Luis.
1950 Anita M. and Ella Hathway (daughters of Bun Hathway) record sale of subject
property to Edna Farm Center.18 With that sale, the building's use as social hall
continues. Their activities are described:
They served dinners as a money-raising project to pay for the building,
besides holding their own meetings and parties. It was a rustic hall with a
batnlike open-beamed ceiling,hooks on the wall for wraps,and folding
chairs or bales of hay for seating. The only hall in the area spacious
enough to accommodate a large crowd, it was not very glamorous to attend
in flus or evening clothes.19
1965 James B.Vail dies of natural causes at the age of 80, at San Luis Obispo
Hospital. His residence is listed as the Rancho Motel, room 144?0 Although
Vail is said to have been married six times, he was divorced at the time of his
16 Telephone interview of Murray Hathway,76-year resident of San Luis Obispo,and great nephew of
Amos R."Bun"Hathway,by Francesca Smith,August 25,2000.
17 lbid.
Is County of San Luis Obispo. Grant Deed dated February 6, 1950,recorded April 7, 1950.
19 Rose McKean, Parade Along the Creek (San Luis Obispo:np, 1988),93 and 94.
20 Certificate of Death.Also Joseph Andre,Lieutenant Deputy Coroner. Coroner's Report. Case No.
2156,printed 5-31-65.
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death. The Coroner's Report lists his last occupation as self-employed
"contractor-builder."
1970 In local calendar of events,the following announcement is run in January and
February: "The Bachelor and Bachelorettes singles square dance group will
meet... in the Edna Farm Center."21
1970 Marguerite and James Rentz purchase subject property from the Edna Farm
Center.'
1971 Property listed in the local white pages as"The Log Cabin." No use is cited.
1974 Caltrans is granted a temporary easement of a portion of the subject property
(until 1979) for adjacent bridge construction.23
1975 Patricia and Norman Jackson purchase subject property from Marguerite and
James Rentz.24 Mr. Jackson later describes the building at the time of purchase
as having"80 broken windows"and needing a great deal of work.
1975 Building becomes"American Dance and Performing Arts,"Pat Jackson is
listed as the director."
1975 Local area woodshop teacher fabricates the heavy, rustic carved"buffalo"doors
and hammer motif hinges 26
1976 Property known as"Pat Jackson Dance Studio."
21 "Weekly T-T calendar of events." San Luis County(California) Telegraph-Tribune. 24 January and
14 February, 1970: np.
22 County of San Luis Obispo. Corporation Grant Deed dated February 26, 1970,recorded
March 4, 1970.
23 County of San Luis Obispo. Grant Deed dated September 19, 1974,recorded December 5, 1974.
24 County of San Luis Obispo. Joint Tenancy Grant Deed dated April 4, 1975,recorded
April 8, 1975.
u Pacific Telephone&Telgraph Co. Yellow Pages. 1975:90.
26 Telephone interview with Norm Jackson(former owner)by Francesca Smith,September 4,2000.
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1976 Norm and Pat Jackson have a slide fabricated to dramatically transport dancers
from the mezzanine to the main level.27 This slide may or may not have been
similar to the original mezzanine slide. Refer to Attachment 3.
1977 Dance school relocates. Property briefly known as"Redwood Manor,"and is
listed in local directory under"Halls and Auditoriums." Station 51, an
alcohol-free disco at 2746 Edna Road is listed in the Bell System Yellow Pages
on page 65. Their paid advertisement features "facilities to accommodate
parties from 10 to 500."
1979 Patricia and Norman Jackson transfer subject property to Station 51, Inc.,a
California corporation.28 Business is listed in the yellow pages as"Station 51,
disco nightclub featuring The Comedy Station."29
1980 Station 51,Inc. transfers the subject property to Hallquist-Morton Investment
Corporation by quitclaim"
1981 Plans for a dance club, Station 51, are prepared by Steven D. Pults, AIA.
Plans show no longer extant double door main entrance on north elevation, at
least 13 exterior windows (now infilled or removed) on the north and west
elevations, and a two story exterior stair on the west elevation. Other changes
include: demolition of original front entry canopy roof and chimney on north
elevation of rear building; existing wrap-around entrance deck modified,
handrail removed and replaced,new concrete steps built at north(original)
entrance. Numerous interior modifications are made,consisting of: removal of
mezzanine at stage area; new mezzanine supports added, and construction of
walls circumscribing stage and office areas 3' Refer to Attachment 8.
27 Ibid.
28 County of San Luis Obispo. Individual Grant Deed dated February 28, 1979,recorded March 1,
1979.
29 Pacific Telephone&Telegraph Co. Yellow Pages. 1979:np.
30 County of San Luis Obispo. Corporation Quitclaim Deed dated September 26, 1980,recorded
September 29, 1979.
J1 Steven Pults,AIA. Plans for Station 51,2746 Edna Road. September 8, 1981. sheets A-I through
A-3.
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1982 Hallquist-Morton Investment Corporation transfers the subject property to
Vincent Miranda(probably DBA Walnut Investment Co.)."
1982-84 Property is listed in local telephone book as "Log Cabin Theater." Theater is
described by local residents as showing "triple X" -rated films. This may have
necessitated infill of windows. Refer to Attachments 9 and 10.
1985 Advertisements are in the local paper for Log Cabin(Theater), showing films
"Rated X,No One Under 18 Admitted." The schedule included:
Firestorm and Debbie Does Dallas(February 2 );
Suzie Superstar and All The Way(February 9th);
Young Blonde &Hot!and Spitfire, featuring Rikki Harte, Chelsea
Manchester and Annie Sprinkle, plus Kinky Business (February 15d'); and
Shauna Grant in Virginia: She Never Outgrew Her Need For Daddy's
Love and Anna Ventura in When She Was Bad(February 23rd)
Each of the ads boasts "loads of free parking."
1985 House of Prayer church relocates to subject property from Southwood Drive.
1986 George Tate, successor trustee to Vincent Miranda transfers the subject
property to House of Prayer Church of God in Christ,the current tenant 33
1992 House of Prayer Church of God in Christ transfers the subject property (back)
to George Tate.34
2000 Covey III, a California General Partnership acquires the subject property.31
32 County of San Luis Obispo. Grant Deed dated April 29, 1982,recorded May 6, 1982.
33 County of San Luis Obispo. Grant Deed dated November 19, 1986,recorded December 8, 1986.
34 County of San Luis Obispo.: Grant Deed(In Lieu of Foreclosure). dated September 20, 1992,recorded
October 27, 1992.
35 County of San Luis Obispo. Grant Deed dated November 2, 1999,recorded March 24,2000.
-7-
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(Wednesday, May 6th)
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most gala opening of anything of this
type Wednesday with the for.
mat opening of the Lop Cabin. Music 1f�
by the Log Cabin Serenaders. with _ �•
b.,noons and serpentine. will help to
create the. most enjoyable atmos• x
mere. Reservations must be made for 1
the diwner hour not later than Wed-
I-rep.) r.esday nwrning. .`•
NG• 1N
WAVES
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ris—Fincer the Dinner ti
inc—shin!- $2.50 Per Plateng :M
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Dancing All E%ening
A%rs
11, GENERAL ADMISSION ,
Tn Those Not Wanting Dinner
rttritJtit After 'J:17 Only
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Gentlemen Ladies
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Sketch of Log Cabin Building
original arrangement of doors and windows,
Chattel Architecture, 2000
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CONTEMPORARY PHOTOGRAPHS OF LOG CABIN BUILDING
A. Overall view southeast of main elevation, note altered windows,doors and deck.
Compare with Attachment 9.
B. Overall view southwest of rear elevation, note altered windows and doors, flat-roofed
addition and HVAC equipment.
C. Interior detail of lamella roof framing.
D. Detail view of front elevation, log siding and stone chimney. Note ghost lines of infilled
window at center.
E. Detail view of redwood false log siding.
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PHOTOGRAPHS OF COMPARABLE PROPERTIES
A. Veterans Memorial Building, 801 Grand Avenue
B. Monday Club, 1815 Monterey Street
C. Odd Fellows Hall, 520 Dana Street
D. Masonic Temple, 859 Marsh Street
E. Trinity Hall, 6565 Broad Street
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