Join us for a rapid-fire visual tour of California’s Wild West boomtowns, ghost towns, and iconic movie sets, led by expert historians and architects who know these sites inside and out. From the abandoned mining towns of Death Valley to the famous film locations of Paramount Ranch and Pioneertown, this fast-paced program uncovers the rugged landscapes and storied past of the state’s frontier history and aesthetic. Get a glimpse of the towns that rose and fell with the Gold Rush, and hear expert commentary on the film sets that brought the Wild West to life on screen. These iconic locations, both ‘real’ and ‘imagined’ are quintessential California.

Presented by...

• Daniel Paul, Architectural Historian and Consultant for the Pioneertown National Register Nomination
• David Hertz, FAIA, SEA Studio
• Ben Loescher, AIA LEED AP, Loescher Meachem Architects
• Linda Greene, Retired National Park Service Historian and co-author of "A History of Mining in Death Valley National Monument - California-Nevada"

In this fascinating program, explore the rich history of two of California’s most famous water spring resorts: Byron Hot Springs and Paradise Springs. Byron Hot Springs, once a lavish resort in the late 1800s and early 1900s, attracted wealthy visitors seeking the curative powers of its mineral waters. Over time, it evolved into a military interrogation site during World War II, adding layers of intrigue to its past. Paradise Springs, tucked away in the San Gabriel Mountains, was a retreat for celebrities and elites, known for its secluded beauty and rejuvenating waters.

Learn about the natural forces that created these springs-based escapes and the unique role they played in California's history. The program also delves into the legends and lore surrounding these sites, from tales of healing and mystery to their transition into forgotten relics of a bygone era. A must-see for history enthusiasts and those curious about California’s hidden past.

Presented by...

• Carol Jensen, Historian and Author of "Byron Hot Springs." East Contra Costa Historical Society
• Justin Chapman, Award-winning Journalist and Author of "The Hedonistic History Of Paradise Springs, Where Early Hollywood Went Wild."

Join us for a captivating journey into the golden age of San Francisco’s grand department stores, featuring historian and author Anne Evers Hitz. In this program, Hitz will share fascinating stories from her books, Lost Department Stores of San Francisco and Emporium Department Store, detailing how iconic stores like City of Paris, I. Magnin, and The White House once shaped the city’s identity and retail culture.

We will also dive into the architectural innovations and stylistic trends that made these grand stores the jewels of urban landscapes. Together, they’ll uncover the rise, transformation, and lasting legacy of these retail palaces that defined 20th-century America.

This program uncovers the rise and fall of these commercial giants, delving into their social and architectural significance while celebrating their lasting legacy. Perfect for anyone interested in architecture, retail history, or the cultural fabric of San Francisco.

Presented by...

• Anne Evers Hitz, Freelance Writer, descendant of one of the Emporium's founders, and Author of "Lost Department Stores of San Francisco."
• Other speakers to be announced. 

Bid on items to support CPF while winning awesome, architecture- and California-inspired auction items. Special stays and trips, event tickets, books from our book club program, rare prints, and other unique items. Don't miss it! Bidding will open Tuesday, November 26th and ends on Tuesday, December 17th at 8 PM. Keep your eyes peeled for future additions and updates!

Space Travel! Three-Night Stay at the Donaldson Futuro House in Idyllwild, CA

Ending in: 26 days 8 hours 13 minutes 30 seconds

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Dec 03, 2024 - Dec 17, 2024    

12:00 pm - 1:00 pm

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Bid to win this once-in-a-lifetime chance to stay in an original Futuro House restored for the ultimate Glamping experience. There are Only 85 in the world, 19 in the USA, and only 1 available that’s worth winning a bid for a three-night stay. You will have the Futuro House all to yourself!

The Donaldson Futuro is significant as an example of America’s collective confidence as a leader in space flight, technological advancement, and economic prosperity. designed by Finnish architect Matti Suuronen, this space-age home was the first Futuro to arrive in California, in 1969, and the only Futuro in California to obtain a building permit for residential occupancy. Its modern futuristic space-age design, materials, and workmanship retain a high level of integrity from its period of significance. The property is officially identified as the Donaldson Futuro in recognition of owners Wayne and Laurie Donaldson’s extensive restoration effort that successfully preserved this fragile resource and raised the profile of early mid-century plastic buildings. The USA production model was built by Futuro Enterprises in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, under a U.S. license agreement from the Finnish company Polychem Ltd. and became an instant hit in the United States. The Donaldson Futuro is listed as California Registered Historical Landmark #1062 and listed in the National Register of Historic Places at statewide significance.

The restoration process was one of research, discovery, and finally successful restoration and code compliance. It was a long journey, full of surprises and challenges, and it’s no wonder that many of the Futuros throughout the world are in dire shape. The concepts of easy to be moved; no or little maintenance because it was plastic, and the early salesmanship of meeting the regular codes all proved to be a challenge. Donaldson’s expertise on restoring plastic materials and the amount of experimentation with each step also became a never ending research and development for over eight years. However, in the long run, the adventure was a myriad of discoveries, solving the challenges with clever solutions and just a bunch of fun along the way.

Many of these dreams came alive during the process of rescuing our Donaldson Futuro, and everyone involved was proud of their work along the way. Laurie stills bring laughter to family and friends as she reminisces about our experiences time and time again. We love our Donaldson Futuro.

Stay in the Futuro for three nights and four days at Idyllwild, California in the San Jacinto mountains at 6,500 feet elevation. Pick your days and confirm with the owner, Wayne and Laurie Donaldson, from May 1 to September 1, 2022. Unfortunately, the site is not accessible to persons with disabilities.

Generously Donated by Wayne and Laurie Donaldson. Dates must be selected within one year of winning bid. Subject to availability. 

Estimated Value: Priceless!

About the Author

The California Preservation Foundation is a network of more than 15,000 members and supporters who are committed to protecting our shared architectural and cultural heritage. We are a leader in preservation education and advocacy, responding to hundreds of requests for assistance and training more than 1,500 people each year.

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