$1.6 Million Campaign Underway for Landmark Shotgun House

The Santa Monica Conservancy is pulling the trigger on its $1.6-capital campaign for the restoration of a landmarked shotgun house and the expansion of its educational programs.

The nonprofit has already collected $860,000 in donations from two other preservation groups, a couple of foundations, and businesses and individuals.

"We have accomplished a great deal in 10 years as an all-volunteer organization. The time has come to hire professional staff and open a site easily accessible to those who want to learn more about historic preservation," President Carol Lemlein said in a statement.

The 1890s shotgun house, which was previously at 2712 Second St., will be relocated from storage at Santa Monica Airport to the parking lot across from the Ocean Park Branch to serve as the conservancy's headquarters and also act as the Preservation Resource Center for the broader community.

At its new location, the conservancy plans to expand its educational programs and provide increased support and technical assistance in answering historic-preservation questions. The conservancy also plans to add a small addition to the back of the house, to support its Preservation Resource Center.

In January 2010, the conservancy signed a 20-year renewable lease for the Shotgun House, which was declared a landmark in 1999. In November, the Santa Monica Planning Commission agreed to the relocation of the house.

Geared to third grade students, the hands-on curriculum "gives students an understanding of how the story of a community and its residents is reflected in the changing materials, styles, and uses of its buildings."

It was created by city Landmarks Commissioner and Conservancy board member Nina Fresco.

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