After demolition threats and multiple moves, Santa Monica's 1897 shotgun house found a new purpose

Santa Monica's historic 1897 Shotgun House found new life as a Preservation Resource Center (Image Credit: Stephen Schafer via Santa Monica Conservancy) ​​ A small wooden house in Santa Monica has survived something few historic buildings ever face: demolition threats, years in storage and several moves from one location to another. Built in 1897, the Shotgun House is now recognised as the last intact example of its kind in the city. What began as a modest home near the beach has become an important piece of Santa Monica's architectural history. Its survival is also a story of residents and preservation groups stepping in when an old building was at risk of disappearing. Today, the house stands at 2520 Second Street, where it has been given a new purpose as a Preservation Resource Center. The Santa Monica Conservancy, which has cared for the property, is marking 10 years since the restored building opened as a community resource in 2016.From beach cottage to landmarkAccording to the Santa Monica Conservancy, the Shotgun House was built in 1897 at 2712 Second Street in Ocean Park, when the neighbourhood was rapidly developing as a seaside resort. Shotgun houses were practical, inexp...