The California wildfires have wreaked havoc on several historically significant landmarks, including the school that brought Stephen King’s “Carrie” to the silver screen under the direction of Brian De Palma. Other affected sites include Will Rogers’ ranch, as well as a motel once owned by media mogul William Randolph Hearst, illustrating the destruction’s wide-reaching impact.
Los Angeles is renowned for its abundant landmarks, owing to its extensive history in film and entertainment over the last century. While major attractions such as the Hollywood Bowl, the TCL Chinese Theatre, and the Dolby Theatre appeared initially threatened by the flames raging through the Hollywood Hills, they have largely escaped significant damage. However, numerous beloved sites have not been so fortunate.
Palisades Charter High School has experienced “significant damage,” though its main building remains standing. Established in 1961 with a construction budget of around $6 million, the school currently accommodates about 3,000 students from across the Los Angeles area, even though classes were not in session during the latest emergency. Notably, the high school gained fame as the filming location for De Palma’s iconic 1976 horror film “Carrie,” where Sissy Spacek portrayed the bullied teenager. Additionally, it has been featured in several other films and TV series, including the 2003 remake of “Freaky Friday.” Esteemed alumni include filmmaker J.J. Abrams, actors Jennifer Jason Leigh and Forest Whitaker, and musician will.i.am.
Will Rogers’ Western Ranch House, a historic property from the 1920s, has been completely consumed by the Palisades Fire. Nestled on 186 acres in Pacific Palisades and boasting a breathtaking view of the Pacific Ocean, the ranch had numerous features, including 31 rooms, stables, corrals, and a golf course. This was where Will Rogers pursued his passion for horse riding and roping until his untimely death in 1935. The site, gifted to the state by Rogers’ widow in 1944, was transformed into a historic state park that featured prominently in the 1975 film “Funny Lady.”
The Topanga Ranch Motel also fell victim to the flames. Constructed by Hearst in 1929, this 30-room establishment had been vacant for nearly two decades but was slated for restoration prior to the fire. It was featured on various television shows and was the backdrop for several films in the late 20th century.
Another victim was the Reel Inn Malibu, a beloved seafood restaurant located along the Pacific Coast Highway, which was a favorite of celebrities like Cindy Crawford and Jerry Seinfeld. The owners expressed their uncertainty about the future of the establishment, hoping for an opportunity to rebuild.
The Bunny Museum, an unusual attraction in Altadena dedicated entirely to bunny-related memorabilia, was also lost in the disaster. The museum had a wide array of items, from Trix cereal boxes to memorabilia related to the popular character Bugs Bunny. It gained national recognition for its unique offerings, including a section detailing the historical treatment of bunnies.
In Altadena, the stylish Spanish Colonial Revival mansion featured in the HBO series “Hacks” has suffered destruction from the Eaton fire, with only its facade remaining. This house served as a backdrop for Jean Smart’s character’s home in the series, which is expected to continue featuring it in upcoming seasons.
The historic Andrew McNally House, a Queen Anne-style mansion that dates back to 1887, was also a casualty in the Eaton Fire. Designed by architect Frederick L. Roehrig, it was noted for its beautiful ornamental features, including stained glass windows and a unique bell-shaped turret. This significant building was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 2007 and had been previously featured in the film “Kingdom Come.”
Finally, Charles S. Farnsworth Park, a charming 15-acre park in Altadena, sustained damage from the Eaton fire as well. The Los Angeles County Parks department announced that the park’s Davies Community Center, a stone structure dating back to 1934, was lost in the flames. The park is recognizable for its amphitheater, which appeared in the film “American Pie 2” and was also featured in the Apple TV+ series “Shrinking.”
