OJAI : Buildings May Get Landmark Status

The Ojai Historic Preservation Commission has recommended that the Ojai Post Office Tower and two other well-known structures be proclaimed city landmarks.

In addition to the 65-foot-tall stucco-and-tile post office, built in 1919, the commission voted Tuesday night to give historic status to the Ojai Arcade and the St. Thomas Aquinas Chapel. The Arcade and the chapel were built between 1915 and 1920 as part of city booster Edward Libbey’s town plan. All three buildings are on Ojai Avenue.

“These are visually the three most architecturally noticeable buildings in town,” said commission Chairwoman Betty McAllister. “They are notable because they are in the Mission Revival style, known for red tile roofs and arches.”

McAllister said the post office was also important because it has served as a “gathering place for residents almost since it was built.” McAllister lauded the Arcade as being “visually stunning” and the chapel as “a representation of the religious spirit” in Ojai.

While the Arcade has been brought up to the city’s earthquake code, the post office and the chapel must be earthquake-proofed and are closed. When repairs at the chapel are completed, it will become the home of the Ojai Museum, now located at 109 S. Montgomery St., McAllister said.

The City Council must approve the commission’s decision before the three buildings can be added to the city’s four other landmarks--the Nazarene Church, the Ladd House, the Woolsey House and the Libbey House.