University Heights, one of San Diego’s oldest communities, has celebrated its 125th anniversary all summer long, and the fun is culminating with an open house on Sunday, August 18th from 1-5pm at the historic James A. & Agnes Creelman House, 4656 North Avenue (better known as the “Log Cabin House” for its unique architecture).
Built in 1908, the Log Cabin House is one of the oldest homes in University Heights and derives its name from the unique use of log cabin slab siding. The property was first owned in 1908 by the San Diego Electric Railway Company and is located across from the former Mission Cliff Gardens and Bentley Ostrich Farm. Daniel Ramirez purchased the abandoned and ravaged property in 2008 and then spent several years restoring it to its former glory. His efforts were recently recognized with a People in Preservation Award from San Diego’s Save Our Heritage Organisation.
Admission to the party is $20 (payable by check or cash). BBQ and soft drinks will be served. All proceeds to the University Heights Historical Society will help to restore the historically designated wood railing atop the cobblestone wall along Adams Avenue which once fronted the former Mission Cliffs Garden, a 20-acre botanical garden developed in 1904 by John D. Spreckels.
People familiar with the condition of the property before its transformation will be delighted to see at the improvements. New log siding, cedar shingles, milled new corbels and trim pieces, decking and windows have been installed on the front of the house along with the lodge pole pine poles that support the front balcony. Inside, the original wainscoting and stairwell have been painstakingly refinished and restored, and much of the original antique “wavy” glass remains along with original doorknobs, door hinges, and even the front door knocker.
Ramirez encourages the community to join the celebration of the restoration of the Log Cabin House and the 125th anniversary of University Heights. “What a great reason to get together with friends and neighbors,” says Dan, “and to help restore one of the few remains of Mission Cliff Gardens, the ‘Jewel of University Heights.’”
