Gazing at this house you would hardly know its story. The James C Beer Residence stands as a testament to Long Beach’s early 20th-century charm. This house whispers tales of a bygone era. It stands as one of the oldest original residences on this stretch of Ocean Boulevard.
Let’s step back in time. The year is 1912. Contractor J. C. Beer, the man behind its construction, completes this house. He resided just across Ocean Boulevard, at 1400, until 1914. Then he moved here when the address was 1403 East Ocean. Imagine Beer, a busy contractor, with his office at the Long Beach Pleasure Pier. He lived here through the Roaring Twenties.
The James C Beer Residence embodies the Mission Revival style. This architectural style was popular in Southern California from 1905 to 1915. Look around. Notice the light gray pebbly concrete exterior. The composition roof features extended rafter tails supporting wide eaves.
The house boasts tall curvilinear gables. These are accented with molding to highlight their outline. Quatrefoil insets with small square windows adorn the side gables. Craftsman-style windows feature divided light transoms. Each window has a label molding above and a plain lintel below. Square bays and subsidiary shed roofs add to the massing.
Consider the deep recessed porch. A decorative wrought iron gate extends around the west side. It sits atop a low concrete retaining wall. The porch pillars have strap molding in place of capitals. A landscaped pergola extends the porch on the west side. The three steps leading to the porch have curved corners.
Inside, wood beams are visible on the ceiling. At the rear, there is a large garage and a second-story unit. This served as a studio apartment over the garage. The Beers lived there in 1911 while the main house was under construction.
The James C Beer Residence is more than just a house. It recalls the early history of Long Beach. It reminds us of when homes were first built on prime lots along Ocean Boulevard. Its Mission Revival style is a rare historical survivor.
Many Mission Revival buildings were constructed here. Early photographs show their popularity. They were used for homes, schools, churches, and hotels. However, the 1933 earthquake destroyed many. Others were demolished over time.
The James Beer Residence is part of the evolution of residential development. It represents the first phase of construction. This included large single-family homes on prime lots with ocean views.
In 1996, Joe Bartlett rescued the house from demolition. He bought it in a foreclosure auction. Bartlett even won a Long Beach Heritage Award in 1998. This was for his restoration of the home’s tile roof.
The house has been lovingly preserved. The woodwork remains intact. The house features newly finished wood floors. The great room features hand-milled wood coffered ceilings. Balconies and patios allow residents to enjoy the ocean breezes.
The James C Beer Residence isn’t just a beautiful building. It’s a link to Long Beach’s past. Its architecture and history make it a significant landmark. It connects us to the dreams and aspirations of those who came before us. The James C Beer Residence stands as a reminder of Long Beach’s rich heritage.