Historic Home Celebrated in Leimert Park
The Leimert Park home of Tom and Ethel Bradley—residence of L.A.’s first Black mayor—has been officially designated a Historic-Cultural Monument. This recognition came alongside the honors for five other key sites in Los Angeles that highlight Black heritage.
Councilwoman Heather Hutt and the Getty Conservation Institute hosted a ceremony to unveil commemorative plaques at the home. They joined Bradley’s children and planning officials to mark the special moment.
A Home That Stood for Integration
The small three-bedroom house in Leimert Park became a landmark of change when the Bradleys moved there in 1950. At the time, strict racial housing rules made their arrival an act of courage. “It was the very first time that a Black family moved into Leimert Park,” recalled their daughter Lorraine Bradley.
Tom Bradley served as mayor from 1973 to 1993, and earlier held a council seat in the 10th District. The house symbolizes both his personal story and the broader push toward integration and equality.
Part of a Wider Celebration of Black Heritage
The designation is part of the African American Historic Places Los Angeles (AAHPLA) initiative, launched by Getty and the City in 2022. This project aims to preserve sites important to Black history across the city.
Other newly designated sites include:
- St. Elmo Village, a hub for Black arts and activism
- Jewel’s Catch One, iconic LGBTQ+ disco and community haven
- StylesVille Barbershop & Beauty Salon in Pacoima
- California Eagle newspaper offices
- New Bethel Baptist Church in Venice
Why This Matters
“These historic buildings are not only markers of our history but also vibrant hubs for the African American community,” said Getty’s Rita Cofield. She emphasized that landmark status helps ensure these spaces endure.
Councilwoman Hutt added, “By honoring these sites, we preserve our city’s shared history—and ensure future generations recognize the vital role African Americans have played in shaping L.A.”
Lorraine Bradley reflected on her parents’ bravery: “To move here under such hostility and build for all of us—nothing could be more important.”
