“Could a shotgun blast through this house?” That’s the question that often comes to mind when people first see the Shotgun House. This unique structure stands as a testament to Santa Monica’s history and the power of community preservation.
The Shotgun House, Santa Monica’s only intact shotgun house, has a fascinating story. Its narrow design is quite distinctive. The rooms are aligned one behind the other like train cars. This layout led to the colorful name. Legend says you could fire a shotgun through the front door. The shot would pass straight through every room and out the back without hitting a wall.
Built in the late 1890s, the Shotgun House reflects a style common in the South. Some believe this design emerged because real estate taxes were based on the front facade’s length. Whatever the reason, the Shotgun House is a rare gem in Southern California.
Over the years, many of Santa Monica’s shotgun houses disappeared. They were demolished, altered, or moved. But this one survived, although not without a fight. In 1998, the Shotgun House faced demolition. The community rallied to landmark it, but it wasn’t enough to stop the threat completely.
In 2002, demolition work began. A back room was torn down. Windows and interior cabinetry were removed. Neighbors and preservationists stepped in. They obtained an emergency order to halt the destruction. The Church in Ocean Park, the Ocean Park Community Organization, and concerned citizens joined forces. They purchased the Shotgun House for just $1. They raised funds to store it while searching for a new owner and location.
The Shotgun House moved three times. It went to a storage facility at the Santa Monica Airport. Then, it was moved to a City storage facility. Finally, it arrived at its present site. This location is only one and a half blocks from its original spot.
The City of Santa Monica eventually took ownership. The community organization that had saved it disbanded. The City issued a request for proposals. They sought a suitable use for the Shotgun House. The Santa Monica Conservancy stepped up. They proposed to rehabilitate the house. They would adapt it as their Preservation Resource Center.
With community support, the Conservancy raised funds. They preserved as many original elements as possible. Missing pieces were carefully replicated. Decorative porch brackets, stolen during the house’s vacancy, were reproduced from photographs. Original window and door casings served as models for recreating missing ones.
The interior was modernized. Insulated sheetrock walls were installed. Open panels reveal original redwood boards and salvaged wallpaper. These glimpses into the past add character.
Today, the Shotgun House serves as the Santa Monica Conservancy’s headquarters. It is a resource center for the community and visitors. It houses a resource library. Interpretive signage teaches about preservation principles and local history. The house hosts workshops, lectures, and meetings. It is open to the public on Wednesdays, Saturdays, and Sundays from 11 am to 2 pm, and by appointment.
In 2017, the Shotgun House earned LEED Gold certification. This proves that even a century-old building can be sustainable. Green features include reusing ninety-five percent of the original building. Energy efficiency measures were implemented. A drought-resistant garden was planted. The Conservancy’s work earned a Preservation Award in 2017.
When you visit the Shotgun House, you’re not just seeing a building. You’re experiencing a story of community, preservation, and the unique architectural heritage of Santa Monica. It’s a reminder that even the most vulnerable structures can find new life with passion and dedication.