Historic Landmarks of California Avenue: Stories Behind the Buildings, 834 California Ave, Los Angeles, United States
834 California Ave: The O.G. of California Avenue
Welcome to 834 California Ave, a location that packs a punch of history and charm in the heart of Los Angeles. This building, constructed in the late 1920s, has seen it all—from the jazz era to the tech boom.
The Jazz Era Hangout
Back in the day, 834 California Ave was a speakeasy. Yup, during Prohibition, this place was the bees' knees for jazz lovers and bootleggers. Rumor has it that legendary jazz musician Duke Ellington played an impromptu set here. The basement, which still has some of its original fixtures, was the spot where the magic happened.
A Brush with Hollywood
In the 1940s, the building served as a backdrop for some of Hollywood's noir films. Directors loved the building's unique architecture—think Art Deco meets Spanish Colonial Revival. Orson Welles reportedly used the location for a few scenes in his lesser-known films. Keep an eye out for the building in black-and-white classics!
The Literary Hideaway
From the 1950s to the 1970s, 834 California Ave was home to a quirky independent bookstore called "The Literary Hideaway." Local authors like Ray Bradbury would frequently stop by for readings and book signings. The store's owner, a bohemian named Martha, was known for her eclectic taste in literature and her pet parrot, Hemingway, who would mimic customers' voices.
The Tech Boom and Co-working Space
Fast forward to the 1990s and 2000s, and the building transformed yet again. This time, it became one of LA's first co-working spaces. The open-plan floors and high-speed internet attracted tech startups and freelancers. The building's rooftop garden, a nod to its 1920s roots, became a popular spot for brainstorming sessions and networking events.
Hidden Gems and Trivia
Secret Tunnel: There’s a secret tunnel in the basement that was used during Prohibition to smuggle alcohol. It was rediscovered in 2001 during renovations. Now, it's a cool, albeit spooky, storage space.
Architectural Quirk: The building features a hidden room behind a bookshelf on the second floor. Originally used as a panic room, it’s now a mini-library stocked with vintage books.
Art Installation: In the 1980s, local artist Banksy (yes, that Banksy!) left a graffiti mural on the building’s west wall. The mural, depicting a whimsical scene of cats playing jazz instruments, is now protected under a glass frame.
Haunted? Some say the building is haunted by the ghost of a saxophonist who used to play in the speakeasy. Staff have reported hearing saxophone music late at night when the building is empty.
Notable Visitors
Marilyn Monroe: Legend has it that Marilyn Monroe visited the building in the 1950s for a photoshoot. A rare photograph of her in front of the building surfaced in an estate sale in 2010.
Steve Jobs: During the early days of Apple, Steve Jobs reportedly visited the co-working space to meet with a budding developer. The meeting was apparently so inspiring that it led to the creation of a now-famous app.
Modern-Day Marvel
Today, 834 California Ave is a mixed-use building, housing trendy boutiques, a chic café, and upscale loft apartments. The rooftop garden is still a major draw, offering stunning views of the LA skyline. The building’s rich history and unique character make it a beloved landmark in the community.
Fun Events
Jazz Nights: Every Friday, the café hosts a jazz night in honor of the building’s musical roots. Local musicians come to play, and there's always a surprise guest or two.
Book Club: The mini-library behind the hidden bookshelf has become the meeting spot for a monthly book club. They often read works by authors who once frequented the Literary Hideaway.
Historical Tours: On the first Saturday of each month, the building offers guided tours that delve into its storied past. These tours are a hit with history buffs and curious locals alike.
Quirky Facts
The Parrot’s Legacy: Hemingway, the parrot from the Literary Hideaway days, is commemorated with a quirky statue in the lobby.
Time Capsule: During the 2001 renovations, a time capsule from the 1920s was found in the building's cornerstone. It contained newspapers, a jazz record, and a flask of whiskey.
Preservation Efforts
The building's current owners are dedicated to preserving its historical integrity. Every renovation is carefully planned to retain original features while incorporating modern amenities. The commitment to preservation has earned 834 California Ave a spot on the National Register of Historic Places.
Final Tidbit
While it may no longer be a speakeasy or a film set, 834 California Ave continues to be a place where stories are made. Whether you're sipping coffee in the café or networking on the rooftop, you're part of the building’s ongoing history.