Garner House
At the time it was built in 1926, the Garner House was one of the largest residences in Claremont. The 5,000 sq. ft. home, built around a courtyard, had 15 rooms and 6 bathrooms. The Spanish Colonial Revival style house, designed by noted Pasadena architect Arthur Munson, was built for Herman and Bess Garner and their three sons. Atypical of the style, however, wood shakes were used rather than red tile due to Bess’s interest in the old California Rancho style and why she called the style of her house “Californian.” Herman was an inventor and founder of the Vortox Manufacturing Co. The Garners were champions of art and culture, funding the construction of the Padua Hills Theatre. The City of Claremont purchased the house in 1946 and it served a variety of purposes. Claremont Heritage moved into house in 2001 and has made it the city’s center for historic programs.
Claremont, Los Angeles County
Photographer: Andrew Schmidt