Reflections
Newsletter
Mary F. Ward 1925-1999
First Historic Site Recognising a San Diego Preservationist
By Beth MontesOn February 27, 2003, a Mission Hills home was designated a historic site by the City of San Diego Historical Resources Board. Site No. 572, located on Sheridan Avenue,
has been named the Mary F. Ward/Emmor Brooke Weaver House. It is becoming more rare to have a home designated due to its association with a historic person. Homes are being primarily designated for their architectural features or design by noted architects. What makes this designation even more rare is the fact that Mrs. Ward died fairly recently, in 1999. Normally the historic person must be noted for his or her works fifty or more years ago. Mary had to be acknowledged as "an exceptional person in her field" to win this recognition.
What made Mary Ward so special? Her absolute dedication to history and historic preservation. Mary gave untold volunteer hours over many years to her passion. In 1986, Mrs. Ward's capabilities were officially recognized when she was hired as the County of San Diego's first historian. She retained that position until her death on January 1, 1999.
Besides her works in the community, Mrs. Ward practiced what she preached. She purchased the Sheridan Avenue house in 1986. It had been used as a rental for many years and was in near "tear-down" condition. After much thought and planning, she undertook a quality restoration of the home, working closely with noted San Diego architect, M. Wayne Donaldson. Mr. Donaldson and Mrs. Ward retained much original fabric, while making a few, well-planned interior changes. Thanks to thoughtful stewardship by its current owner, Vince Petranzio, the home continues to be a stunning example of 1911 artistic bungalow architecture. Many in the community were recently able to enjoy the home when it was on SOHO's San Diego Arts & Crafts Home Tour on March 9th.
More from this issue
- SOHO Files Suit to Stop Coronado Rail Line Destruction
- National Security Executive Order
- President's Message
By David Marshall- Message from the Executive Director
By Bruce Coons- Historic Districts: How They Work for Your Community
- Deadline Extended! Tecate Depot architect reward
- Mary F. Ward 1925-1999
By Beth Montes- How to Be a Preservationist
- Desert Drugs is History
By Bob Boze Bell- Highway 101 Association
By John Daley- Remembering Larry Booth 1920-2003
- People in Preservation Awards
By Kathleen Kelley-Markham- Attention Coronado Craftsman Era Homeowners
- San Diego Old House Fair!
- Museum Shop at The Whaley House Spring Catalog 2003
- Theatre at the Whaley House: 'Round Cape Horn Must Go!
- Whaley House Garden News
- Volunteer Profile: Athena Jaharis
- Arts & Crafts Weekend 2003 in Review
By Alana Coons
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