Rancho Los Cerritos has long been one of Long Beach’s most treasured historic sites, and its story grew even richer with the addition of a 1930s-style Spanish cottage on the property back in 2018. Designed to house some of the rancho’s administrative needs and open more of the original adobe for display, the new building blends seamlessly with the site’s history and architecture. The expansion marked one of the first major updates in decades, further supporting the rancho’s mission of preserving and sharing Long Beach’s past.
The Rancho’s Origins
Rancho Los Cerritos is one of the earliest developments in the Long Beach area, creating a legacy that can still be felt today. Created in the early 1800s when Spanish settler Manuel Nieto’s property was divided into 6 ranchos, the property has remained a classic example of Monterey style architecture, mingling Californian and Spanish aesthetics. The property switched hands on multiple occasions, eventually falling into the keep of the locally renowned Bixby family. In the 1930s, the Virginia Country Club was built in close vicinity, with an increase of homes near to the property. In 1955, the city of Long Beach bought the property. It became a historical property and national landmark in 1970.
The rancho continues to be one of the best sites of Long Beach history, maintaining a healthy culture of learning, regional landscaping, and local events.
What Makes Up a 1930s Spanish Cottage?
One of the most popular styles of home available in California, Spanish style architecture has continued to be a huge component of Long Beach’s landscape. With distinctive stucco walls, tiled roof, and artful landscaping, a 1930s cottage is easily recognized amidst the multiple Craftsman and Ranch style homes throughout the city.
Spanish cottages from this era will frequently have interesting arched windows, doors, and partitions on the interior of the homes. Courtyards and picture windows feature prominently, and hard wood and tiled floors bring sophistication.
The Rancho Los Cerritos cottage added in 2018 reflects many hallmarks of 1930s Spanish-style architecture, from stucco walls and tiled roofs to arched windows and doors. Drawing on the same traditions that later influenced the Ranch-style home, the design also incorporates wide eaves to help keep interiors cool in the Southern California sun. Thoughtfully planned, the addition honors the property’s rich cultural heritage while enhancing its historic setting.
Owning A Little History of Your Own
The 1930s saw a lot of home building across Long Beach. Rose Park, California Heights, and Wrigley are some of the foremost neighborhoods that have great examples of 1930s cottages. These areas, while typically low in inventory, still allow would-be homeowners their own opportunity to own a little bit of Long Beach history. To learn more about these fantastic homes and their neighborhoods, we’re happy to advise you on the area and the houses we typically see come up on the market, as well as future sales that may be of interest to you.
Have your own 1930s cottage that you’re looking to sell? Or wanting to find your own dream home? We’re experienced with and excited about these homes, and would be happy to give you, whether you’re considering buying or selling.
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