Windsor Square Society Marks 50 Years

The Windsor Square Hancock Park Historical Society marked its 50th anniversary on October 10 with a gathering in the back garden of 101 N. Hudson Avenue. The venue is a Tudor-style estate designed by architect Roland Coate. Homeowner Bret Hankey, along with Jamie Olguin, Cici Hankey, and Craig Strong of the Craig Strong Group, opened the property for the event. The hosts decorated the home for Halloween to coincide with the celebration.

Richard Battaglia, the current society president, served as master of ceremonies. He introduced the executive committee and the organizers responsible for the event. Cindy Chvatal-Keane of the Hancock Park Homeowners Association was invited but could not attend. Jason Greenman of the Windsor Square Association delivered remarks during the program.

Jane Gilman, one of the organization's original founders, provided the evening's central address. Gilman is also the founder and former editor of the Larchmont Chronicle. She discussed the history of the society's founding and its activities over the past half-century.

The group was established during a period of decline for the local neighborhoods. In the 1970s, historic homes in Windsor Square and Hancock Park were frequently abandoned or demolished. Local attorney Sid Adair and Jane Gilman decided to form a historical society to increase appreciation for the area and promote preservation. They recruited realtor Pat Hug to help expand membership. The group incorporated as a non-profit on May 18, 1976.

The stated mission of the society is to preserve and collect the history of the Greater Rancho La Brea area. This includes recognizing architectural landmarks and historical sites while generating a supporting community spirit. The organization began its operations by planning its first tour of historic homes. Early events included opening the doors of the Van Nuys mansion at 357 S. Lorraine Boulevard.

Events expanded over the decades to include premier affairs and fundraisers. In 1979, the society hosted a private view of the Treasures of Tutankhamun. Functions were held at the Los Angeles Tennis and Wilshire Country clubs, the Getty House, the former Bullock’s Wilshire, and the now-closed Perino’s restaurant. Members also participated in an overnight trip to Hearst Castle. Other social activities included teas, theatrical performances, and croquet tournaments.

Preservation work was a primary focus beyond social events. Under the leadership of former president Fluff McLean and Jane Gilman, the society studied and researched hundreds of historic houses in the area. They conducted oral histories with the community’s oldest residents. The group also presented annual Landmark Awards to celebrate local architectural treasures. The society supported the formation of the Windsor Square and Hancock Park Historic Preservation Overlay Zones.

Funds raised from events contributed to community beautification projects. These contributions included landscaping at firehouses, schools, and local libraries. The society also funded the restoration of the Getty House and the Larchmont median signage. Additional funds supported the LAPD Wilshire Division Fallen Officers Monument.

Jason Greenman noted that the neighborhoods attract thousands of visitors weekly. He stated that the streets are used by people who walk, run, bike, and walk their dogs. He added that films and shows shot in the area have introduced the neighborhoods to global audiences. Greenman said the scale of the neighborhoods, trees, and architecture are part of what draws people to the area. He concluded that the broader use of the spaces is one more reason why the character of these places is worth preserving.

The Windsor Square Hancock Park Historical Society remains active fifty years after its founding. The organization continues to operate under the mission of generating a supporting community spirit. Interested individuals can visit wshphs.com to join the group.