As the Palisades Fire rages on, we’re sad to report that it’s taken its toll on two of the area’s state parks, destroying structures with significance to L.A.’s history.
Pacific Palisades’ Will Rogers State Historic Park, centered around Rogers’ ranch house, is the starting point of many popular hikes, including Inspiration Point, and a cultural destination in its own right. The former home of Rogers—a writer, cowboy philosopher, trick-roper and the first honorary mayor of Beverly Hills—had been maintained as it was in the 1930s; it became a state park in 1944 when his widow donated it after his death.
The 31-room ranch house and other historic buildings at Will Rogers State Historic Park, including the beautiful stables, were destroyed. Needless to say, the park remains closed.
At adjacent Topanga State Park, the bungalow-style Topanga Ranch Motel, built in 1929 by William Randolph Hearst, was also destroyed. Located across from Topanga Beach, the retro motel once housed PCH construction workers and was a popular filming location. Plans had been in the works to restore 20 of its cabins to again rent out to the public.
In all, California State Parks reports more than 30 structural losses at Topanga State Park and Will Rogers State Historic Park.
“California State Parks mourns the loss of these treasured natural and cultural resources, and our hearts go out to everyone impacted by the devastating fires in the Los Angeles area,” said State Parks director Armando Quintero.
In a bit of good news, State Parks managed to evacuate the horses and some of the cultural and historical artifacts—including artwork—at Will Rogers State Historic Park in time.
At press time, the Palisades Fire is affecting nearly 16,000 acres with 0% containment, according to the Los Angeles Fire Department. Eighteen fire agencies are currently on the scene. Widespread evacuation orders remain in effect.
Check our list of landmarks and restaurants closed due to the wildfires for up-to-date coverage.