photo: Library of Congress

In honor of Preservation Month, one of our most popular architecture lectures returns for a limited time only!

This lecture (originally presented on April 25, 2021), looks at one of Los Angeles’ most mourned lost Art Deco treasures. Historian and author, Nathan Marsak returns to the virtual stage to cast a spotlight on the black and gold Richfield Oil Company Building, located at 555 South Flower Street, from its construction in 1928/29 to its demolition in 1968/69.

How could something so utterly fantastic have survived only 40 years you ask? How could you who were born after 1969 have been robbed of the opportunity to experience the wonder of this Stiles O. Clements architected showpiece of downtown Los Angeles? In this illustrated presentation, Nathan will answer those questions and more in a talk on the fabled building that still inspires preservationists today.

Also known as the Richfield Tower, the building headquartered Richfield Oil. The black and gold color scheme symbolized the "black gold" the company profited from. Haig Patigian sculpted the exterior decoration.

About the Author: Nathan Marsak is a Los Angeles based historian. His most recent book is Bunker Hill Los Angeles: Essence of Sunshine and Noir (Angel City Press).

Also this month, we will take an in depth look at another lost Los Angeles structure, the exposition style Streamline Moderne Pan Pacific Auditorium with architect and historian Fran Offenhauser.

Tickets:

$10 General Admission (yes, you can join and get a ticket at member price!)

$6 ADSLA Members

This is a recording of a live event. Once you purchase it, you may watch it at your leisure. Further details on the ticket purchase page.