On July 13, the community came together to commemorate the unveiling of a plaque recognizing the Doctors House in Brand Park for its placement on the National Register of Historic Places. This Victorian-style home, notable for its Queen Anne-Eastlake architecture and rich history, was celebrated for its enduring legacy in Glendale.
The Glendale Historical Society (TGHS) played a crucial role in preserving the Doctors House, saving it from demolition in 1979. Among those honored at the plaque unveiling were Carole Dougherty, Sue Lazara, and Marie Luft, three women instrumental in the rescue and restoration efforts. Isabelle Meyer, who led school tours for many years, was also recognized for her contributions.
Dougherty, the key figure behind the campaign to save the house and relocate it to Brand Park, was unable to attend the event. The house, originally built around 1888, served as the residence for a series of four doctors from 1890 to 1914 and was designated a historical landmark by the city in 1977.
Despite its landmark status, the City Council approved a developer’s plan in 1979 to demolish the structure and build an apartment complex on the site. TGHS protested this decision, but the city initially cited a lack of funds for preservation. Following public outcry, Dougherty and Luft negotiated with city officials, leading to the purchase of the house for $1, with TGHS agreeing to finance its relocation from Wilson Avenue to Brand Park.
In September 1980, a local company successfully moved the house to its new location. The restoration process began immediately, with Lazara spearheading the search for period-appropriate furnishings. After four years of dedicated work, much of it volunteer-driven, the house was finally opened to the public.
Meyer, a retired elementary school teacher, later became the curator of the Doctors House. She also developed an outreach program for local third-grade students, which included class visits to the historic site.
The Doctors House is open for tours on Sundays from 2 to 4 p.m., except during July, holidays, and inclement weather. For more information, visit glendalehistorical.org/museum-tours.
