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South Park: San Diego's Newest Historic District
November/December 2017
By Ann Jarmusch
After two long decades, the South Park Historic District in Golden Hill is finally official! Applause greeted the Historical Resources Board's unanimous vote in favor of the designation on October 26.
With a period of significance from 1906 through 1949, the 300-building district is a special element of San Diego's historical and architectural development because it illustrates suburban streetcar development in San Diego (and Golden Hill) and a variety of pre-1950 architectural styles. Read report.
Huge thanks to Susan Bugbee, long-time resident and historian, who drafted the context statement and provided original research materials. Other champions include David Swarens, a SOHO Board member and Chair of the Golden Hill Planning Group; former resident Bonnie Poppe; and the late Beth Montes. City staff Kelly Stanco and Bernie Turgeon also were key players who helped bring this big project in on an ambitious schedule.
As the first San Diego community with an established railway line, South Park used the streetcar line as a marketing tool to promote sales (Figures link). Originally, South Park development also included restrictions attached to each deed, which specified the minimum cost for each home and only allowed single-family dwellings to be constructed. The resources lining the blocks of this district represent the full range of popular architectural styles from the first half of the 20th century, including Craftsman, Spanish Colonial, Mission Revival, Tudor, and Prairie styles.
Along with its overall support, SOHO contributed research and mapping that convinced the board to add five buildings to the district.
Congratulations to the many South Park Historic District residents, owners and supporters who have advocated for and finally succeeded helping to preserve forever this special, highly livable San Diego neighborhood!
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