hm157

Is it a house? Is it a historical monument? Is it an art space? At 3110 N. Broadway, you’ll find HM157, a place that embodies all three and so much more. HM157, also known as the Horace Dibble House, isn’t your typical Los Angeles landmark. This 1886 Victorian house, listed on the California Historical landmark list, pulses with the energy of Lincoln Heights’ art community. HM157 acts as a cultural catalyst. It’s a music venue that has hosted bands like Jeffertitti’s Nile, White Magic, and Entrance Band. It’s a gallery, a multi-purpose art workspace, and even a farm. It’s a chameleon of a location, transforming for public and private events, film shoots, and even eco-workshops. But HM157 holds a secret, a story etched in its very foundation. In 1896, the Los Angeles Daily Times reported a dramatic murder involving the house’s resident, Horace B. Dibble. Dibble, a salesman, killed his co-worker in self-defense after a heated argument escalated into violence. The Times, recounting the incident, described how Dibble plunged a knife into his attacker “again and again”. Despite the grim circumstances, Dibble was later acquitted. HM157 survived this dark chapter and went on to flourish. It has been lauded as “L.A.’s most interesting house party” and a “Best Escape From Corporate Entertainment”. Tragedy struck again in May 2015 when a fire ravaged the backyard performance area, damaging the house and neighboring buildings. Two residents lost everything. Yet, the HM157 collective, fueled by community support and a GoFundMe campaign, rose from the ashes. They rebuilt and continued their mission. HM157, a testament to resilience, remains a vibrant hub of creativity in the heart of Los Angeles. As you stand before it, remember the layers of history, the echoes of music and art, and the spirit of community that keep HM157 alive.