Winter in Southern California, typically a break from wildfires, has instead brought devastation, destroying historical buildings and cultural landmarks. Fueled by powerful Santa Ana winds reaching speeds of 100 mph, the Palisades, Eaton, Hurst, and Tyler fires are threatening both homes and the region's cultural identity.
The fires are worsened by vegetation dried out from months of heat and heavy rains, along with a plunging jet stream. Fallen power lines spark flames that spread faster and more destructively than typical summer fires, leaving little time to react. As the fires continue, many are waiting for updates on beloved Los Angeles landmarks.
Fire scientist Jennifer Balch points to a warming climate and shifting fire patterns, noting that winter wildfires, once rare, are now part of California's new reality. These fires threaten not only homes and lives but also the cultural landmarks that connect communities to their history. Here's an update on their current status.
Will Rogers State Historic Park
Will Rogers State Historic Park in the Pacific Palisades, once the estate of humorist Will Rogers, featured a 31-room ranch house, stables, and scenic trails; it became a state park in 1944 and was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1971. However, the Palisades fire destroyed the ranch house and other structures, though horses and cultural artifacts were safely evacuated.
Topanga State Park
The fire devastated the park’s Topanga Ranch Motel, concessions buildings, and employee residences. Over 30 structures in the park were destroyed.
The Getty Villa and Getty Center
The Getty Villa, located in the Pacific Palisades, is an art museum dedicated to ancient Greek, Roman, and Etruscan cultures. Opened in 1974 by J. Paul Getty, it underwent a $275 million renovation, reopening in 2006 with a rare collection of artifacts. While trees and vegetation were burned in the recent fires, the structures and art collections were preserved thanks to effective fire mitigation plans. Both the Getty Villa and Getty Center remain temporarily closed.
Sunset Boulevard
The 1.7-mile stretch of Sunset Boulevard between Hollywood and West Hollywood was gridlocked during evacuations and remains closed between San Vicente and Crescent Heights to support firefighting efforts. The Palisades fire caused significant damage, with many buildings along this iconic street in Pacific Palisades burned down.
Theatre Palisades
Theatre Palisades, known for its quality performances and strong community ties, was founded in 1963. The Pierson Playhouse sustained significant damage, leading the community theater to suspend operations indefinitely.
Altadena Golf Course
The clubhouse, a historic Pasadena site dating back to 1910, was destroyed. Efforts are underway to rebuild.
The Bunny Museum
The Bunny Museum in Altadena, home to over 45,000 bunny-themed items from antiques to contemporary art and holding the Guinness World Record for the largest collection of rabbit memorabilia, tragically burned to the ground.
Griffith Observatory
This Art Deco landmark and access to the Hollywood sign are temporarily closed due to high winds, though the structures remain safe.
Descanso Gardens
Located in an evacuation zone, the botanical garden remains closed, with its status under review.