Everything Glendale

Filed Under: Architecture, Events, History

Well, my social voyeurism rears its ugly head once again. Always on the lookout for opportunities to peer behind the curtain, as it were, I was quite excited to receive an e-mail from the Los Angeles Conservancy regarding a one-time-only tour.

I’m a sucker for the phrase “one-time-only,” so I didn’t even need to read where we were going before I whipped out my credit card. Once my spot was safely secured, I read about “City of the Seekers: L.A.’s Unique Spiritual Legacy.” Omigosh! Not only were they giving me an opportunity to go into Aimee Semple McPherson’s temple on Sunset that I used to pass every day on my way to high school, but also the Self-Realization Fellowship Mother Center! Just the name on the sign made me want to go in every time I drove past.

I was giddy with delight by the time I saw that one of the stops is going to be in our very own Glendale: The Chapel of the Jesus Ethic (pictured). This is what the tour description has to say about the site: “The Chapel of the Jesus Ethic is a modern gem located on the Glendale campus of the Foundation of Niscience (which means ‘knowing’). Co-founded in 1953 by Ann Ree Colton and Jonathan Murro, Niscience teachings blend religion, philosophy, science, and the creative arts to inspire its members to live creative and spiritual lives.”

Hmmm. Sounds even more interesting. In a world where religion and science are increasingly being seen as two separate and distinct paths, these people not only combine them, but also add creativity. I want to know more.

So how have I missed this place in my local ramblings around Glendale? Granted, I’m less likely to jaunt to the Colorado/Chevy Chase part of town. I’m more of an Americana and north kind of girl. The frontier next to the L.A. border can get a little seedy. But I digress. I’m quite excited about going places where the general public is usually not allowed, and I’d love for all of you to join me. Spirituality not required.

"City of the Seekers: L.A.'s Unique Spiritual Legacy" Self-Driving Tour

Saturday, March 14, 2009
10:00 a.m.-4:00 p.m.

Los Angeles Conservancy
213.430.4219 (Event Hotline)
www.laconservancy.org

Tickets:
$25.00 for L.A. Conservancy members
$30.00 for non-members
$10.00 for kids 12 and under

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Filed Under: Architecture, Brand Park, Candlelight Tours, Community Happenings, Events, History, The Doctors House, The Glendale Historical Society, Tours

In 1979, The Doctors House, a Victorian home built around 1888-1890, was threatened with demolition. A group of determined Glendale residents came together to save the house, and The Glendale Historical Society emerged from their efforts. Funds were raised, and ultimately the house was moved from its original location at Wilson & Belmont to a space provided by the city in Brand Park.

Over the next four years, volunteers from the Society painstakingly restored the house to the way it would have looked in the Victorian era. In 1984, the house was opened to the public as a museum, showcasing early Glendale history and Victorian life.

Tours of the house are available most Sunday afternoons (except December) from 2:00 p.m.-4:00 p.m., but during two special evenings in December the house is decorated for Christmas and lit by candles and vintage lanterns. Guests are invited to stroll through and enjoy the period decorations, live music, and refreshments.

The Doctors House Candlelight Tours

Saturday, December 20, 2008
6:30 p.m.-8:30 p.m.

The Doctors House
Brand Park
1601 West Mountain Street
Glendale, CA 91201
818.242.4290
www.glendalehistorical.org/doctors.html

Admission:
Only $1

No reservations needed. Bring the kids!

[We at The Glendale Historical Society enjoy sharing our city's history and preserving its architectural heritage. We are fortunate as citizens to have great old neighborhoods and beautiful buildings from decades past that tell the story of Glendale. Please read more about our efforts at www.glendalehistorical.org and help us preserve Glendale's history by becoming a member.]

[Photo courtesy of Graeme Whifler.]


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