About

“John Anson Ford Residence”

Los Angeles Historic-Cultural Monument #1027 (2/27/2013)

Click here  for Los Angeles Department of City Planning recommendation Report, which has additional details on the property’s architectural and historic significance.

Statement of Significance:

This unique custom home was built in 1932 by auto garage owner Arthur E Cummings.  There is no record as to who actually designed the elaborate abode, but in 1946 it was purchased by Los Angeles County Supervisor John Anson Ford who was to use it as his home until his death in 1983 at the age of 100.

Serving as 3rd District Supervisor from 1934 until 1958, Ford was one of the area’s best known politicians. He was an early champion of civic reform, working with Clifford Clinton (Clifton’s Cafeterias) and Judge Fletcher Bowron (later Mayor Bowron) and others.  Ford was at the forefront in routing out corruption in the City of Los Angeles, ultimately leading to the recall of Mayor Shaw, the resignation of the Chief of Police and the adoption of a new City Charter to end “Boss Rule“ in Los Angeles.  Ford was also well known as a patron of the arts, using his influence in the advancement in both the Los Angeles County Museums and the Los Angeles Philharmonic.

History:

1940 Census:
1976 Normandie Avenue (Value $21,000): 1) Arthur E. Cummings, head of household; white married male 51 years of age; born in Massachusetts; insurance broker, at home. 2) Helen Jay Cummings, wife; white married female 41 years of age; born in California; not working. 3) Elizabeth Cummings, daughter; white single female 19 years of age; born in California; not working. 4) Katherine Cummings, daughter; white female 13 years of age; born in California; in school. 5) Frank A. Jay, father-in-law; white widower 77 years of age; born in Minnesota; not working. 6) Ella Woodring, maid; white widow 54 years of age; born in Texas; housekeeper in a private family; earns $360. (ED 60-82; Page 5B; Lines 77-80; and Page 6A, Lines 1-2).

Listed at $1,695,000 in June, 2002.