A Short Primer on Jefferson Park

The Jefferson Park neighborhood straddles either side of Jefferson Blvd, from Western to Crenshaw, and from Adams (on its North) to Exposition (on its South).

The Eastern end of the neighborhood is dominated architecturally by single-story largely Craftsman-style bungalows. Approaching Crenshaw, the development pattern changes, transitioning into the ubiquitous Spanish/Mediterranean Revival Styles of the 1920s, with a small offering of Colonial Revivals.

Nearly all of Jefferson Park's Craftsman-style bungalows, for which the neighborhood is reknown, were built between 1905 and 1915. Frequently homeowners themselves built two or three, lived in one, and sold off the others. Despite these varied origins, 100 years of style changes and remodelling fads, an unusually intact, cohesive streetscape remains.

Even with their multitudinous details, the houses were built at an average cost of $2,000, usually from plans purchased in catalogues; and, frequently with mass produced elements (doors, windows, picture rail moldings, etc). Smaller in size than costlier homes of the era (most J-Park bungalows are 1300 - 1500 sq. ft.), these houses nonetheless featured most of the same materials, hardware, carpentry and decorative details as their up-market bretheren. Sadly in today's home building world, it is no longer the case that houses for the rank and file are imbued with the same quality finishes as those garnered by the elite. But such was the case in 1909.

Befitting the Arts & Crafts philosophy, social equality and cultural diversity has long been a hallmark in "The Bungalows". The neighborhood once boasted a substantial Jewish population (there are two former synagogues on Jefferson Blvd). Later, it became a mecca for Japanese residents, as evidenced by some landscaping features, former businesses, and long-time residents. A substantial African-American population, many with a Louisiana connection, have formed a key group. Hispanic immigrants have added to the mix, while Western Blvd. has become the spine of a Belizean community. Arts professionals, some with Architectural or planning related careers, also abound.

In concert with the West Adams Heritage Association, "J. Park" has staged well attended, bi-annual house tours. Interest in the centrally-located neighborhood is intensifying, perhaps related to the re-birth of "surface street close" downtown, galloping gas prices, and the upcoming Exposition light rail line. Home prices have climbed into the mid $600's, with interest high and inventory low.

Coming soon: Jefferson Park hot spots