Update on Historic Preservation in University Heights
Pavilion and Lily Pond at Mission Cliff Gardens
For 23 years, the University Heights Historical Society (UHHS) has worked to preserve the architectural, cultural, and historic resources in University Heights through research, education, and advocacy. The UHHS obtained historic designation for many of the historic landmarks in University Heights including:
The former entrance to Mission Cliff Gardens, established in 1898 by entrepreneur John D. Spreckels, including the redwood gate and some of the palm trees.
The cobblestone wall that lines Adams Avenue from Park Boulevard west to its dead end built by Mission Cliff Gardens park superintendent John Davidson.
The cobblestone wall surrounding the former lily pond on Mission Cliff Drive at North Court. Both also built by Mission Cliff Gardens park superintendent John Davidson.
The former entrance to the Ostrich Farm at Park and Adams, including the redwood gate and the cobblestone piers. In 1904, John D. Spreckels invited Harvey Bentley to relocate his ostrich farm from Coronado.
The cobblestone remains of a drinking fountain, which was once part of an ornate waiting station for the Number 11 trolley.
The Canary Island Palms in the 4700 block of Park Blvd., once the southeast entrance to Mission Cliff Gardens.
Site of the former trolley carbarn, built in 1913 to store and perform minor service to several hundred trolleys. Trolley Barn Park is now located on this historic site.
The Teachers Training Annex, built in 1910 as a training laboratory for the Normal School, where student teachers were observed as they provided instruction to school-age children. In 1999, the Teachers Training Annex was placed on the National Register of Historic Places.
In February 2020, the University Heights Historical Society was revitalized and has created the following so far this year:
Website at www.uhhs-uhcdc.org
Self-Guided Walking Tour of Valle Vista Terrace Historic District
Webinar on The Early History of University Heights
Online maps of historic districts, homes, and landmarks in University Heights
Updated online maps of bungalow courts and historic sidewalk contractor stamps in University Heights
Video showcasing the historic Everett Gee and Eileen Lois Jackson Residence in University Heights
The University Heights Historical Society also successfully advocated for the following this year:
Replication of the historically-designated gate and railing on Adams Avenue at Mission Cliff Drive illegally removed by owner at 1608 Mission Cliff Drive
Repair of the irrigation system watering the heritage trees on the historic Normal Street Site on Normal Street at Campus Avenue
Preventive treatment of the historically-designated Canary Island Palms in the 4700 block of Park Blvd. This effort was in collaboration with the University Heights Community Association.
We depend on the support of the community for our annual communications expenses like web hosting, email software, graphic design, printing, and postage, and expert fees for historic reports. There are no paid staff, just caring neighbors who support our mission.
As a 501(c)(3) organization, contributions or gifts to the University Heights Historical Society are tax-deductible, to the extent provided by law. And new members receive a free copy of our Self-Guided Walking Tour of Valle Vista Terrace Historic District.