Pasadena’s Rich Craftsman Heritage Takes Center Stage As Architectural Series Culminates in Immersive Weekend

Pasadena Heritage is hosting the third and final installment of their series, “Preservation Pasadena Part III: Craftsman Style, Pure and Simple” with an immersive experience celebrating the Arts & Crafts Movement and delving into Pasadena’s vibrant Craftsman heritage.

During Preservation Pasadena III, participants will have the opportunity to explore historic neighborhoods and landmarks alongside experienced docents and preservation experts. The two-day happening runs over the weekend of Oct. 21 and 22.

Pasadena Heritage has a longstanding tradition of hosting educational programs focused on the city’s Craftsman architecture. 

Originating in 1991, Craftsman Weekend became an annual event until 2019. Hordes of aficionados would flood the city for this popular event.

In 2020, Craftsman Weekend was reimagined and expanded as Preservation Pasadena, encompassing not only Craftsman architecture but also its influence on contemporary architectural styles. 

“This fall, we are thrilled to return to our Craftsman roots and offer a variety of programs that will highlight Pasadena as one of the West Coast Centers of the Arts & Crafts Movement,” Pasadena Heritage said in a statement. 

Ticket sales for Preservation Pasadena Part III are now live. To learn more about the event and purchase tickets, visit the event website,  https://pasadenaheritage.org/upcoming-events/preservationpasadenapart3/.

Preservation Pasadena III is sponsored by Michael Robleto of Compass, Fedde Furniture | Stickley, Pobal Construction, and Window Restoration & Repair.

Founded in 1977, Pasadena Heritage is a nonprofit organization dedicated to historic preservation. The organization advocates for historic resources, educating the public about local history and the advantages of preservation, providing advice for those involved in historic building restoration, and showcasing restoration excellence. 

The organization has over 1,000 household members from Pasadena and Southern California at large and continues to make a positive impact on preserving the area’s heritage. 

For more information, visit www.pasadenaheritage.org.

As listed by Pasadena Heritage, here are the events for Preservation Pasadena Part III: Craftsman Style, Pure and Simple: 

La Loma Walking Tour

Saturday, Oct. 21: 10 to 11:30 a.m., 10:30 a.m. to 12 p.m., 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. 

Tickets: $20 members, $25 nonmembers

Embark on a guided walking tour of Pasadena’s renowned La Loma neighborhood, known for its exquisite Craftsman homes. Experience the beauty of this area, which includes architectural gems like the Batchelder House and designs by Greene & Greene, Austin and Grable, among others. The tour includes a brief stop at the John K. Van de Kamp Bridge, recognized for its seismic retrofit and rehabilitation. Dogs are not allowed on the tour.

“The Asian Influence on Pasadena’s Arts & Crafts Architecture” Bus Tour

Saturday, Oct. 21: 10 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. and 2 to 4:30 p.m. 

Tickets: $35 members, $40 nonmembers

Join two Pasadena Heritage Board members as your guides on a bus tour exploring the unique elements that set Pasadena’s Arts & Crafts architecture apart from its Midwest and English counterparts. Discover the fascinating connections between ancient Chinese and Japanese wooden architecture and prominent Craftsman landmarks like the Gamble House, the Culbertson House, and the Cole House. The tour lasts approximately 2.5 hours.

“The Prairie School Goes West” Virtual Presentation by Allen Hazard

Saturday, Oct. 21, 4 to 5 p.m.

Tickets: $20 members, $25 nonmembers

Learn about the Midwestern Prairie School and its influence on American architecture in a virtual presentation by historian and author Allen Hazard. Delve into the movement’s expansion to California, Oregon, and Washington during the early 20th Century. The lecture will be held online with a recording available to ticket holders. In-person viewing or reception access is not included.

“The Prairie School Goes West” Live Screening at the Blinn House, followed by a “Lite Taste of Chicago” Reception

Saturday, Oct. 21, Lecture from 4 to 5 p.m. Reception from 5 to 7 p.m.

Tickets: $35 members, $40 nonmembers

Experience a live screening of Allen Hazard’s lecture at the historic Blinn House, esteemed for its Prairie Style architecture. A relaxed reception featuring light bites and festive beverages follows. Immerse yourself in a taste of Chicago while exploring the Chicago connections of the Blinn House. This ticket includes both the live screening and reception, with a recording of the lecture available to ticket holders.

Arroyo Terrace Walking Tour with a Private Tour of the Gamble House

Sunday, Oct. 22: 9 to 11:30 a.m., 9:30 a.m. to 12 p.m., 10 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., 10:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. 

Tickets: $40 members, $45 nonmembers

Discover the historic Arroyo Terrace neighborhood, home to remarkable works by Charles and Henry Greene. Explore iconic landmarks such as the Duncan-Irwin House, the Gamble House, the James A. Culbertson House, and Charles Greene’s own residence. The event includes a one-hour walking tour followed by a guided private tour of the Gamble House. A break for refreshments is scheduled at the Gamble House Bookstore. Dogs are not allowed on the tour.

“Craftsman Architectural Sub-Styles” Lecture and Presentation by John Ripley

Sunday, Oct. 22, 2 to 3 p.m.

Tickets: $20 members, $25 nonmembers

Join Pasadena historian and author John Ripley as he talks about the various sub-styles within Craftsman residential architecture. Learn to identify these sub-styles and enhance your appreciation of Craftsman buildings, from traditional Stickley designs to Swiss Chalet styles and beyond. This lecture takes place in-person at the historic Blinn House.

For tickets, visit https://www.eventbrite.com/e/preservation-pasadena-part-iii-craftsman-style-pure-and-simple-tickets-722912048397?aff=PHWebsite.