Marilyn Monroe's Brentwood home, where she tragically passed away in 1962, has been designated a historic landmark by the Los Angeles City Council. This decision aims to protect the residence from demolition, a fate it narrowly avoided after being purchased by a wealthy couple who intended to raze it to expand their property.
The designation followed a unanimous vote by the council, emphasizing the cultural and historical significance of the property. Councilwoman Traci Park highlighted the iconic status of both Monroe and her home, noting that the house is intrinsically linked to the actress's legacy.
The house, located at 12305 West Fifth Helena Drive, is a modest Spanish-style residence with four bedrooms, three bathrooms, and a pool. It was Monroe's only owned home and the site of her untimely death due to a drug overdose. Despite its humble size, the property holds immense cultural value.
The recent purchase of the house by heiress Brinah Milstein and reality TV producer Roy Bank for $8.35 million sparked controversy when their plans for demolition were revealed. Local residents, historical preservation organizations, and city institutions rallied to protect the house, leading to its nomination as a Historical-Cultural Monument.
Despite the historic designation, the house's future remains uncertain. The owners have taken legal action against the city, arguing that the property does not deserve monument status due to numerous renovations by previous owners. They also proposed relocating the house to make it accessible to Monroe's fans.
As the legal battle continues, the city council and preservation advocates remain committed to safeguarding the property. The outcome will determine whether the house will be preserved in its current location, moved, or potentially opened to the public as a museum.
- The house's designation as a historic landmark does not entirely prevent its demolition but requires a rigorous review by the municipal heritage commission before any changes can be made.
- Councilwoman Traci Park has been actively working with the current owners to explore the possibility of relocating the house to a location where it can be visited by the public. This proposal aims to balance the interests of the owners and the city's desire to preserve Monroe's legacy.
- The legal dispute between the owners and the city highlights broader issues of historical preservation and property rights. The case has drawn significant public attention, particularly given the cultural significance of Marilyn Monroe and her enduring legacy in Los Angeles.
- The outcome of this case could set a precedent for how historical properties are managed and preserved in the city, especially those associated with iconic figures and cultural heritage.
