SANTA BARBARA, Calif. – Members of the Historic Landmark Commission listened to a presentation on the history of the Francesci House in Santa Barbara.
The house originally belonged to Dr. Francesco Franceschi.
Franceschi introduced plants and vegetables to the area in the early 20th century before returning to Italy for a business venture.
Social reformer and philanthropist Alden Freeman bought the house in 1926, added his personal touches and then transformed it into a public space.
After the property was donated to the city in 1931, the Pearl Chase Society and others repeatedly attempted to restore the three-story house.
Its deteriorating condition and hilltop location made it too costly and challenging.
Emiliano Marini spoke during the commission’s public hearing and urged the city not to demolish the house, even saying he could be hired to do the work, as he did in his native Italy.
The home is located in the heart of the 15-acre Francesci Park at the intersection of Mission Ridge and Franceschi Rd.
Rick Closson, a member of the Pearl Chase Society, said there are plans to build an observation deck on the site of the house.
The plan calls for retaining historic medallions to honor contributing members of the community.
The community meetings began in February and resulted in a compromise proposal.
Community members said they wanted it to be a quiet, contemplative and idyllic place to enjoy the view.
Although some commission members would have liked to keep the home, the majority raised their hands and said that only the floor plan of the home should be preserved.
The goal now is to receive positive comments on the design development that will lead to collaboration before a formal application phase begins.
You’ll find out more about the plans on your news channel this evening.