The South Pasadena Preservation Foundation, in conjunction with South Pas Active Streets, will host a free walking tour of the historic Mission District on Dec. 10 at 2 p.m.
The tour includes the Mission West portion of the district, which is on the National Register of Historic Places.
Participants will learn from expert docents about the people and places from the city’s early days that made South Pasadena the community it is today. They will also get to know how the 710 Freeway extension once threatened to tear the district in two and how historic preservation helped to end the threat.
Public Works officials will also be on hand to discuss changes coming to Mission Street that will help it reclaim its roots as a thriving pedestrian thoroughfare.
“Our town has such a rich history,” said tour co-organizer Michael Siegel of SPAS. “We want to share that with the community while also showcasing the walkable, livable lifestyle of our town’s central district.”
The tour begins at the South Pasadena Historical Museum, the oldest commercial building in town, which opened in 1887 as a grocery store. Visiting more than 20 sites in a 1.5 mile loop, including portions of legendary Route 66, participants will learn the historical and architectural significance of some of South Pasadena’s most iconic landmarks.
“Please join us and take a step back in time as we celebrate our historic and walkable Mission District,” said SPPF board member and tour co-organizer Mark Gallatin.
At the end of the 90-minute tour, participants will have time to mingle at the new parklet at the intersection of Meridian Avenue and Mission Street and enjoy complimentary treats sponsored by Jones Coffee. Space is limited. To RSVP, visit southpasactive.org/projects/community-events.
To learn more about this event, contact info@sppreservation.org or info@southpasactive.org.
First published in the December 1 print issue of the South Pasadena Review.
