Additionally, the subject property is individually significant for its association with important persons San Jose Mayor Adolph Pfister and business owner James Hagan; for its associatio
Introduction and Executive Summary
This report presents a Historic Resource Assessment (HRA, Phase 1) for the property at 82-96 E Santa Clara Street in San Jose, California, confirming its eligibility as a historic resource The assessment evaluates the property's historical significance and integrity, supporting its recognition as a significant cultural asset The proposed project involves adaptively reusing the existing commercial building to create a mixed-use space combining office and kitchen facilities for food entrepreneurs, promoting sustainable development while preserving the site's historic value.
The subject property consists of two historic commercial buildings on E Santa Clara Street between S 3rd and S 2nd Streets, dating back to 1870-1885 The Hagan Building at 82-86 E Santa Clara Street is a two-story structure built around 1870, while the Odd Fellows Building at 88-96 E Santa Clara Street is a three-story building constructed circa 1885; both are designed in the Italianate style with cast iron facades These buildings are recognized for their historical significance, with the Hagan Building listed as City of San Jose Landmark No 80 in 1980 and as a contributor to the San Jose Downtown Commercial District on the National Register in 1983 Their listing on local and national registers underscores their importance as historic resources, which are protected under the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA).
The subject property is a key district contributor, showcasing downtown San Jose’s commercial architecture from the 1870s and 1880s It holds individual significance due to its connections with notable figures such as Mayor Adolph Pfister and James Hagan, and its status as the oldest remaining building in San Jose’s public library system Additionally, it is historically associated with the Garden City Lodge No 142 of the Independent Order of Odd Fellows and is one of the few surviving structures linked to architects Jacob Lenzen & Son The building is an exemplary example of Italianate architecture and highlights historic construction materials and methods, including brick and cast iron, no longer commonly used today.
This HRA is based on written guidance provided by the National Park Service (NPS) for evaluating historic properties, including National Register Bulletin #15, How to Apply the National
Register Criteria for Evaluation Because there is limited guidance on application of California
The evaluation of the subject property and district as historic resources under CEQA is based on comprehensive research and professional assessment This includes site-specific and contextual analysis utilizing primary sources such as the Santa Clara County Assessor, city records, historic maps, and aerial imagery, complemented by secondary sources like archival research and consultations with design and applicant teams The criteria of significance were applied within relevant historic contexts, with direct observations conducted during a site visit on February 19, 2019, by qualified professionals meeting the Secretary of the Interior’s standards, supporting the determination of the property's historical importance.
1 Local and federal designations of the “Odd Fellows Building” at the subject property includes both the Hagan Building (west portion) and the Odd Fellows Building (east portion)
C HATTEL , I NC | H ISTORIC P RESERVATION C ONSULTANTS 5
The proposed project involves adaptively reusing an existing commercial building to create a mixed-use space for offices and kitchen facilities tailored for food entrepreneurs This project requires discretionary review by the City to ensure compliance with local regulations Additionally, the project will be evaluated for conformance with the Secretary of the Interior’s Standards for the Treatment of Historic Properties, ensuring that the historic character of the building is preserved during its adaptive reuse.
Conformance to the Secretary’s Standards typically results in less than a significant impact on historic resources under CEQA, indicating that the project would not materially alter the physical characteristics that convey its historical significance A Conformance Review and Impacts Analysis (Phase 2) will be submitted to the City, including an evaluation of potential project impacts and an assessment of how the project aligns with the Secretary’s Standards Supporting documentation includes maps (Attachment A), historic images (Attachment B), contemporary images (Attachment C), select building permits (Attachment D), newspaper articles (Attachment E), and designation and survey forms (Attachment F).
C HATTEL , I NC | H ISTORIC P RESERVATION C ONSULTANTS 6
Primary and secondary source materials were consulted for development of applicable historic contexts For a complete list of sources, see bibliography Sources generally included:
• Building permits from the City Community Development Department;
• Electronic databases of the San Jose Public Library, History San Jose, California Digital Newspaper Collection, and the University of California at Berkeley, including City directories and digital photograph collections;
• Research completed at the San Jose Public Library’s California Room for local San Jose History;
• Records from the Santa Clara County Office of the Assessor;
• Sanborn Fire Insurance Maps (from the San Jose Public Library);
On February 19, 2019, Chattel, Inc President Robert Chattel, AIA, and Principal Associate Christine di Iorio, AICP, conducted a comprehensive site visit, during which they extensively photographed both the exterior and interior of the property to assess its overall condition and structural integrity.
C HATTEL , I NC | H ISTORIC P RESERVATION C ONSULTANTS 7
Qualifications
Chattel, Inc is a leading historic preservation consulting firm serving the western United States, specializing in balancing project objectives with complex preservation regulations The firm works with both government agencies and private clients, ensuring compliance without compromising core principles Comprised of experienced professionals recognized by the Secretary of the Interior, Chattel offers comprehensive expertise in historic preservation.
Our firm specializes in interior design with a focus on historical resources, offering professional services in history, architecture, architectural history, and historic architecture We provide expert evaluations of historical resources and conduct project effects analyses to ensure preservation priorities are met Additionally, we offer consultation on federal, state, and local historic preservation statutes and regulations, ensuring compliance and protection of historic sites throughout the project lifecycle.
Chattel staff engage in a collaborative process and work together as a team on individual projects This HRA was prepared by firm President Robert Chattel, AIA, historic architect,
Principal Associate Christine di Iorio, AICP, planner, Senior Associate Nels Youngborg, architectural historian, Associate I Aleli Balaguer, planner, and Intern Alvin Christian-Nuval
C HATTEL , I NC | H ISTORIC P RESERVATION C ONSULTANTS 8
Regulatory Setting
NATIONAL REGISTER OF HISTORIC PLACES
The National Register, established under the 1966 National Historic Preservation Act, is the United States' official list of historic and cultural resources deserving preservation Managed by the National Park Service within the Department of the Interior, it supports efforts to identify, evaluate, and protect America's significant historic and archaeological sites Eligible resources for the National Register include districts, sites, buildings, structures, and objects that hold importance in American history, architecture, archaeology, engineering, and culture Listing on the National Register helps ensure these valuable resources are recognized and preserved for future generations.
A) are associated with events that have made a significant contribution to the broad patterns of our history; or B) are associated with the lives of significant persons in our past; or
This characteristic embodies the distinctive features of a specific type, period, or method of construction, highlighting the work of a master and high artistic value It represents a significant and recognizable entity, even if its individual components lack separate distinction, emphasizing its overall artistic and historical importance.
D) have yielded or may be likely to yield, information important in history or prehistory 2
To determine if a resource qualifies as historically significant, it must first meet specific criteria and then undergo an integrity assessment Integrity assesses a property’s ability to convey its significance and maintain its physical and visual attributes The National Register identifies seven key aspects of integrity: location, design, setting, materials, workmanship, feeling, and association Preserving most of these aspects is essential for a property to retain its historic integrity and be recognized for its significance.
The National Register only includes properties that maintain enough integrity to accurately reflect their physical and visual appearance during their designated period of significance The period of significance defines the timeframe when a property's historical importance is recognized, which may range from a specific construction date to multiple years, depending on its significance This period is determined based on the property's relevant historic context and supported by factual details in the historic context statement, ensuring an accurate understanding of its historical value.
Evaluating a property's integrity involves understanding its physical features and their connection to its significance A property that qualifies under criterion A or B may still convey its importance even with some loss of integrity in design, materials, or workmanship Conversely, properties significant solely for their architecture under criterion C require a high level of integrity in design, materials, and workmanship to accurately reflect their significance In some cases, comparisons with similar properties are used in the integrity assessment, especially when dealing with rare property types.
2 National Register Bulletin #15, How to Apply the National Register Criteria for Evaluation (National Park Service, 1990, revised 2002)
C HATTEL , I NC | H ISTORIC P RESERVATION C ONSULTANTS 9
While integrity is crucial in assessing a property's significance, its physical condition—whether deteriorated or pristine—has limited impact A well-maintained property might lack the necessary integrity if it has undergone significant alterations, whereas a poorly preserved property can still retain substantial integrity if it remains true to its period of significance Ultimately, the property's ability to convey its historical importance depends more on its integrity than its current condition.
The subject property is listed in the National Register as a contributor to the San Jose Downtown Commercial District
CALIFORNIA REGISTER OF HISTORICAL RESOURCES
The California Register is designed to serve as an authoritative guide to the state’s significant historical and archaeological resources, as established by Public Resources Code (PRC) §5024.1 State law mandates that properties must meet specific criteria to be deemed eligible for listing in the California Register, ensuring the protection and recognition of California’s heritage.
Register, it must be found by the State Historical Resources Commission to be significant under any of the following four criteria, if the resource:
1) is associated with events that have made a significant contribution to the broad patterns of California’s history and cultural heritage; or
2) is associated with the lives of persons important in our past; or
3) embodies the distinctive characteristics of a type, period, region, or method of construction, or represents the work of an important creative individual or possesses high artistic values; or
4) has yielded, or may be likely to yield, information important in prehistory or history
The main distinction between eligibility for the National Register and the California Register lies in the level of integrity; properties listed on the National Register typically demonstrate a higher degree of integrity However, there is no difference in criteria related to significance, as a property meeting California Register significance standards would also qualify for the National Register unless integrity issues hinder its ability to convey its historic importance.
The California Register also includes properties which have been formally determined eligible for listing in, or are listed in the National Register; are registered as State Historical Landmark
Number 770, and all consecutively numbered landmarks above Number 770; are points of historical interest, which have been reviewed and recommended to the State Historical
The Resources Commission is responsible for the listing process of landmarks and districts designated by city or county authorities, provided they meet the criteria established by the California Office of Historic Preservation (OHP) to ensure consistency with California Register standards According to PRC §5024.1(g), a resource identified as significant in an historical resource survey is eligible to be listed, emphasizing the importance of documented recognition in historic resource evaluations.
California Register if the survey meets all of the following criteria:
1) The survey has been or will be included in the State Historical Resources
2) The survey and the survey documentation were prepared in accordance with
C HATTEL , I NC | H ISTORIC P RESERVATION C ONSULTANTS 10
3) The resource is evaluated and determined by the office to have a significance rating of category 1-5 on DPR [Department of Parks and Recreation] Form 523
If a survey is five or more years old at the time of its nomination for inclusion in the California Register, it must be updated to reflect any changes This update should identify historical resources that have become eligible or ineligible due to altered circumstances or additional documentation, as well as resources that have been demolished or significantly altered, reducing their historical significance Ensuring survey accuracy and current status is essential for proper evaluation and preservation.
As the District is listed in the National Register, it is automatically listed in the California Register CITY OF SAN JOSE
San Jose's Historic Preservation Ordinance allows the Historic Landmarks Commission or City Council to nominate and designate properties as City Landmarks if they possess significant historical, architectural, cultural, aesthetic, or engineering value The designation process involves evaluating factors such as the property's historical importance and unique architectural or cultural features This ensures that landmarks with exceptional interest or value are preserved for their contribution to San Jose's heritage.
1) Its character, interest or value as part of the local, regional, state or national history, heritage or culture;
2) Its location as a site of a significant historic event;
3) Its identification with a person or persons who significantly contributed to the local, regional, state or national culture and history;
4) Its exemplification of the cultural, economic, social or historic heritage of the City of San Jose;
5) Its portrayal of the environment of a group of people in an era of history characterized by a distinctive architectural style;
6) Its embodiment of distinguishing characteristics of an architectural type or specimen;
7) Its identification as the work of an architect or master builder whose individual work has influenced the development of the City of San Jose; and
8) Its embodiment of elements of architectural or engineering design, detail, materials or craftsmanship which represents a significant architectural innovation or which is unique
Landmarks shall be subject to the provisions of Part 3 of the Historic Preservation Ordinance, Historic Preservation Permits
The City also designates historic districts 5 Any geographically defined area may be nominated as a historic district by the City Council, the Historic Landmarks Commission, the Planning
The establishment of a historic district requires a commission or application from landowners owning at least sixty percent of the proposed area, as designated by the City Council Both the Historic Landmarks Commission and Planning Commission must determine that the proposed district is a clearly defined geographical area, whether urban or rural, with a notable concentration or continuity of historic significance.
C HATTEL , I NC | H ISTORIC P RESERVATION C ONSULTANTS 11 site, buildings, structures or objects unified by past events or aesthetically by plan or physical development
The subject property is designated as City of San Jose Historic Landmark No 80
Under CEQA, a historical resource is defined as a resource listed in or eligible for listing in the California Register of Historical Resources Properties included in local registers or deemed significant under Section 5024.1(g) are presumed to be historically or culturally significant unless evidence proves otherwise This designation emphasizes the importance of these resources in preserving California's cultural heritage and ensuring proper consideration during development projects.
Projects causing substantial adverse changes to historical resources, such as physical demolition, destruction, relocation, or significant alterations, require environmental clearance with mitigation measures to minimize impacts According to California Code of Regulations, Title 14, Chapter 3 §15064.5 (b)(2), a material impairment occurs when these modifications materially impair the significance of an historical resource, thereby justifying the need for careful assessment and mitigation strategies during project planning.
Demolishing or materially altering an historic resource in a way that adversely impacts its key physical characteristics can jeopardize its eligibility for the California Register or local historic registers Specifically, such actions that diminish the resource's historical significance must be carefully evaluated Unless a public agency can provide clear evidence that the resource is not historically or culturally significant, modifications that affect its defining features may threaten its protected status and eligibility for recognition.
Description
This physical description is based on on-site inspection and review of historic documentation For detailed information, refer to Attachment A, which includes maps of the subject property and the surrounding area Historic images of the property can be found in Attachment B, while contemporary images are provided in Attachment C.
The subject property is located at 82-96 E Santa Clara Street in downtown San Jose, occupying the southwest corner of Santa Clara and 3rd Streets Situated within a historic commercial district, it is surrounded by similarly sized, low-rise buildings on adjacent lots The neighboring properties on Santa Clara Street are primarily commercial, while the property on 3rd Street is multi-family residential A service alley at the rear of the property provides access from 3rd Street through a contemporary metal gate, enhancing accessibility for maintenance and deliveries.
The subject property consists of two historic buildings constructed between 1870 and 1885, showcasing Italianate architectural style The Hagan Building at 82-86 E Santa Clara, built circa 1870, is a two-story rectangular structure featuring heavy timber frame construction, unreinforced masonry exterior walls, and a distinctive cast iron facade The adjacent Odd Fellows Building at 88-96 E Santa Clara, constructed circa 1885, is a three-story rectangular building with similar heavy timber framing, unreinforced masonry exterior and interior walls, and a cast iron facade Both buildings share character-defining Italianate features, reflecting their historical significance and architectural coherence.
North Elevation (Hagan Building, west portion)
The west portion of the north elevation is a two-story section, three bays wide at the ground floor, featuring a glass storefront on the first level and a row of five arched hung windows on the second The building is clad in painted cast iron with flat plaster infill, topped by a pedimented parapet wall centered on the structure A projecting cornice running the full width of the building, adorned with corbels and brackets, crowns the elevation Decorative elements include three half-round reliefs in the entablature beneath the cornice, with the central relief displaying an "I.O.O.F." sign representing the Independent Order of Odd Fellows, composed of individual letters and symbols attached to the exterior Further investigation is needed to identify the material of the sign.
The second floor features a striking row of five tall, elongated, and arched hung windows, each topped with pedimented hoods with intricate cornice returns Flanked by rectangular, fluted pilasters with elegant Corinthian capitals, these windows are accented by a string course at their base, which visually separates the two floors Additionally, decorative corbels are positioned underneath the string course, enhancing the architectural detail and elegance of the facade.
C HATTEL , I NC | H ISTORIC P RESERVATION C ONSULTANTS 13
The ground floor storefront is divided into three bays by four pilasters, with the two easternmost bays being wide and the westernmost bay narrower Historically, the westernmost bay featured a door and served as the main entrance; today, it contains a fixed glass window with a green marble bulkhead The pilasters are detailed with two vertical rectangles separated by a circle in the middle, emphasizing their decorative design A continuous green marble bulkhead with fixed glass windows spans all three bays, maintaining the building’s cohesive aesthetic Overpainted transom windows sit above each storefront, adorning the facade, while green, red, and white striped awnings provide shelter and visual interest.
North Elevation (Odd Fellows Building, east portion)
The east portion of the north elevation stands at three stories tall and spans four bays across the ground floor, featuring glass storefronts and two recessed entrances that enhance its accessibility and visual appeal The upper stories showcase a series of arched windows, each adorned with decorative rounded, segmented, and pointed arch-shaped hoods, highlighting historic architectural details Clad in painted cast iron with flat plaster infill, the façade combines durability with aesthetic charm Additionally, a distinctive corner tower at Santa Clara and 3rd rises above a rounded oriel, adding architectural interest and emphasizing the building's historic character.
The building’s elevation is capped by an ornate cornice, adorned with corbels, brackets, and decorative rectangular panels with central circles, enhancing its architectural detail Two bays, the second and fourth from east to west, lack the cornice due to early 20th-century alterations that replaced original pointed parapet walls with new design elements These bays display prominent painted signs—“I.O.O.F” in the second bay and “FRIENDSHIP LOVE & TRUTH” in the fourth—and feature large pointed arch hood structures above the windows, which also have pointed arches beneath them Flanking each bay are rectangular pilasters aligned with the storefront columns below, emphasizing verticality The corner tower is distinguished by segmented arched windows decorated with garlands above each, adding to the building’s historic charm The exterior’s string courses visually divide the three floors, with corbels supporting the third-floor string course and dental molding beneath the second-floor string course, creating a cohesive and decorative architectural profile.
The ground floor storefront features five cast iron columns with Corinthian capitals that divide the facade into four bays, two of which serve as entrances These ornate columns are embellished with vertical rounded rectangles and a rounded molding that separates them, adding historic architectural detail A striking green marble bulkhead runs the length of the storefront, complemented by large glass panels situated between the columns for visibility Above, striped green, red, and white awnings shade the transom windows in the fourth bay, while a wall sign reading “Hank Coca’s Downtown Furniture” covers the transom windows in the remaining bays, enhancing the storefront’s commercial appeal.
The east elevation spans three stories and is four bays wide, featuring a combination of glass storefronts and walls on the lower level for an inviting ground-floor facade The upper floors are characterized by a series of arched and rectangular windows, each adorned with decorative window hoods that enhance architectural detail Notably, the third floor features pointed arched windows, adding visual interest and historic character The upper levels are clad in painted flat plaster, providing a clean and cohesive finish to the building's facade.
The building's elevation is capped by a prominent cornice that spans most of its width, featuring decorative corbels and brackets underneath for added architectural detail Additionally, the cornice is adorned with a series of rectangular motifs, each containing circular elements, enhancing the overall aesthetic appeal.
Chattel, Inc Historic Preservation Consultants analyzed a structure with 14 centers, noting that two parts of the roofline—specifically the second and fourth bays—lack a cornice due to early 20th-century alterations These bays previously featured pointed parapet walls, which have since been demolished, reflecting significant historical modifications to the building’s original design.
The “I.O.O.F” bay features a distinctive pointed arch design above two smaller pointed arch windows, highlighting its architectural details The upper section of the fourth bay has been altered, removed down to the decorative window hood on the third floor, reflecting changes over time Each bay is accentuated by rectangular pilasters running throughout the upper stories, seamlessly aligned with the storefront columns below, emphasizing the building’s cohesive architectural style.
The ground floor features masonry infill walls between cast iron columns with Corinthian capitals, with three original walls each containing a pair of arched transom windows The north and south bays on the ground floor are designated as glass storefronts, shaded by green, red, and white striped awnings above the transom windows in the southern bays Additionally, a wall sign covers the rounded transom windows in the other bays, displaying the name “Hank Coca’s Downtown Furniture,” highlighting the building's historic and commercial significance.
This report presents a detailed review of alterations and elevation graphics, compiled through physical inspections and thorough analysis of historic documentation Red overlays highlight areas where features have been added, replaced, or removed, providing clear visual evidence of changes over time.
North Elevation (Hagan Building, west portion)
• Reconfigured historic entrance into storefront
• Replaced original bulkhead with green marble
• Overpainted transom windows or replaced transom windows with painted plywood
C HATTEL , I NC | H ISTORIC P RESERVATION C ONSULTANTS 15
North Elevation (Odd Fellows Building, east portion)
• Removed cornice features, including finials, iron cresting and parapet walls, and octagonal tower with domed roof above the rounded oriel corner feature
• Replaced original bulkhead with green marble
• Removed cornice features, including finials, iron cresting and parapet walls, and octagonal tower with domed roof above the rounded oriel corner feature
• Reconfigured original pointed arch into rounded arch on the third floor of the southern bay
• Infilled one window on second floor
• Removed original glass storefront configuration from southern bay
• Infilled storefronts and street entrance
• Replaced original bulkhead with green marble
• Overpainted transom windows or replaced transom windows with painted plywood
C HATTEL , I NC | H ISTORIC P RESERVATION C ONSULTANTS 16
AVAILABLE PERMIT AND ALTERATION HISTORY
Historic Contexts
The subject property holds significant historic value through its association with prominent figures such as San Jose Mayor Adolph Pfister and business owner James Hagan, highlighting its connection to influential local personalities It is notable as the oldest remaining building within San Jose’s free public library system, representing the city’s early educational development Additionally, the property is linked to the social history of the community, serving as a site for the Garden City Lodge No 142 of the Independent Order of Odd Fellows (IOOF) Furthermore, it is one of the few surviving structures associated with Jacob Lenzen & Sons, Architects, emphasizing its architectural significance Archival research conducted at the San Jose Public Library and the City of San Jose provides comprehensive background on the property’s owners, architects like Jacob and Theodore Lenzen, and early residents, underscoring its important role in the city’s historical narrative.
Former San Jose Mayor Adolph Pfister was a businessman who was born in Strasburg, France in
Pfister immigrated to New York in 1844 and traveled to California in 1847 as part of a regiment aimed at colonizing the state After the regiment’s service ended in 1848, he established the Washington Hotel at the corner of Santa Clara and San Pedro Streets, marking the first hotel in San Jose.
After selling the Washington Hotel to his partner, Pfister ventured into various business activities, including providing goods and supplies to local farmers In 1884, the Odd Fellows Hall Association purchased the property at the corner of Santa Clara Street and 3rd Street from Pfister to develop the current building.
Pfister served as the mayor of San Jose from 1870 to 1873, during which he demonstrated a strong commitment to community development by funding the San Jose Library with his salary His dedication to public education and literacy led him to later serve as the president of the San Jose Free Library, further contributing to the city's growth and cultural enrichment.
James Hagan owned the Hagan Building at 82 E Santa Clara Street, where he operated a plumbing and gas fitting store The building's second-floor hall was rented out to the San Jose Library Association, marking San Jose’s first public library Hagan's establishment specialized in gas fitting, plumbing, and steam-fitting services, offering a comprehensive stock of supplies to serve the local community and support the development of essential infrastructure.
13 There does not appear to be credible evidence imparting significance to Hank Coca Further research would be necessary and could be reevaluated in the future
14 Section mostly paraphrased from Foote, H.S Pen Pictures from the Garden of the World The Lewis Publishing Company, 1888
15 A secondary source identifies the Hagan Building was previously referred to as the Pfister Building Archives & Architecture “Historical and Architectural Evaluation: Former Dr Martin Luther King J Main Library Building.” 2008
16 H.S Foote Pen Pictures from the Garden of the World The Lewis Publishing Company, 1888
17 Glory Anne Laffey Archives & Architecture “Historic Resources Inventory: Survey Ref No 98, Odd Fellows Building.” 1991
C HATTEL , I NC | H ISTORIC P RESERVATION C ONSULTANTS 20 pipe, fittings, and fixtures,” 18 and imported “plumbing and gas fittings and fixtures,” 19 and chandeliers
Hagan arrived in San Jose in 1860 before working in San Francisco He established the San Jose Gas Works in 1880, funded by his former San Francisco employers, J.K Prior and Peter Donahue As the first gas company in San Jose, Hagan was granted exclusive rights to lay mains, build infrastructure, and supply gas, making him responsible for introducing and popularizing gas lighting in the city.
Hagan passed away in 1883, but Sanborn maps from 1884 indicate that his plumbing and gas fitting store remained at the Hagan Building after his death Despite the lack of city directories prior to 1901, evidence suggests that Hagan’s son, Charles A Hagan, continued managing the business at the same location Records show that Charles A Hagan was still operating his father's business in 1888, demonstrating the continuity of the enterprise beyond Hagan's lifetime.
SAN JOSE’S FREE PUBLIC LIBRARY SYSTEM 24
San Jose’s free and accessible public library system was established in 1871, initiated by Mayor Adolph Pfister’s call for its creation Pfister spearheaded a local fundraising campaign, encouraging the community to support the development of the public library He also urged the Young Men’s Christian Association (YMCA) to participate in advocating for this important civic resource, laying the foundation for one of California’s earliest public library systems.
(YMCA) to operate their subscription-based library on a non-sectarian basis; however, the YMCA board was unwilling despite their financial constraints threatening closure of their library Thus in
In 1872, the private non-profit San Jose Library Association was established after negotiations to operate a subscription-based library and reading room located in the Knox Block at Santa Clara and First Streets The library's initial collections were sourced from the YMCA library, marking the beginning of organized public access to reading materials in the area.
In 1880, San Jose established its first Public Library, following the passage of an ordinance under California’s Rogers Free Library Act of 1878, which allowed cities and counties to levy taxes to support public libraries This law enabled San Jose to create a free, accessible library for all residents Support from Mayor Pfister, along with donations and volunteer staffing for the San Jose Library Association, helped grow the collection The San Jose Library Association transferred their collection to the city, and the new San Jose Public Library officially opened in 1880 at the Murphy Building on S Market and Post Streets.
18 H.S Foote Pen Pictures from the Garden of the World The Lewis Publishing Company, 1888
19 Archives & Architecture “Historical and Architectural Evaluation: Former Dr Martin Luther King J Main Library Building.” 2008
20 H.S Foote Pen Pictures from the Garden of the World The Lewis Publishing Company, 1888
21 “No 220 – Introduction of Gas”, date unknown
22 “First Day of Gas Lighting Here Recalled”, January 22, 1939
23 H.S Foote Pen Pictures from the Garden of the World The Lewis Publishing Company, 1888
24 Section paraphrased from Archives & Architecture “Historical and Architectural Evaluation: Former Dr Martin Luther King J Main Library Building.” 2008
25 Oakland Public Library “History of the Oakland Public Library.” Oakland Public Library Accessed June 3, 2019 http://www.oaklandlibrary.org/about/history-oakland-public-library
C HATTEL , I NC | H ISTORIC P RESERVATION C ONSULTANTS 21
In 1882, the San Jose Public Library relocated to the second-floor hall of the Hagan Building at 82 East Santa Clara Street, after considering four potential site offers The Library Association rented the space from James Hagan for $20 monthly, with interior remodeling contributed by Hagan's wife The library remained at this location for seven years before moving to the second floor of San Jose City Hall in 1889.
The Hagan Building, west portion of the subject property, is the oldest building within San Jose that is directly linked to the history of the free public library system
GARDEN CITY LODGE NO 142, INDEPENDENT ORDER OF ODD FELLOWS 27
The San Jose Lodge of the International Order of Odd Fellows (IOOF) was established as a fraternal organization in 1854, with the Garden City Lodge No 142 being chartered in 1868 Founded by Deputy Grand Master Charles N Fox on March 20, 1868, the lodge’s founding members included professionals such as physician John P Backesto, photographer Charles Button, and carpenter C.C Cook Other notable members were R.S Carter, a carpenter; J.H Gordon, a plumber and gas fitter; pork merchant F.T Risdon; insurance agent A.P Hulse; lime and brick supplier George W Kneedker; brick mason Robert Scott; and Chas W Pomeroy, a director at the Bank of San Jose This historic lodge played a significant role in the community’s social and fraternal life in San Jose.
Chas W Pomeroy coined the name “the Garden City,” which became a popular nickname for San Jose The Garden City Lodge was dedicated to aiding the distressed and embodied the IOOF’s core values of Friendship, Love, and Truth Originally housed in the Hensley Block at Market and Santa Clara Streets, the lodge relocated after the 1868 Hayward earthquake The lodge was displaced until 1874, when they began meeting in the Pomeroy Building, and by 1884, they had established the Odd Fellows Hall.
The association successfully organized and raised $30,000 to construct the Odd Fellows Building at 3rd and Santa Clara Streets The lodge occupied this historic building for 83 years before relocating in 1968 to its current location at 122 Race Street.
Jacob Lenzen & Son, Architects, was a prominent architectural firm founded by building contractor Jacob Lenzen and his son, architect Theodore W Lenzen The Lenzens were prolific architects in San Jose from the 1860s through the turn of the century, shaping the city's architectural landscape Although much of their work has been lost, notable surviving structures include the Odd Fellows Building, the Security Building, and the Letitia Building, showcasing their significant contribution to San Jose's historic architecture.
26 Archives & Architecture “Historical and Architectural Evaluation: Former Dr Martin Luther King J Main Library Building.” 2008
27 Paraphrased from “Garden City Lodge No 142, I.O.O.F.” San Jose Fraternal Organizations
28 Section mostly paraphrased from Foote, H.S Pen Pictures from the Garden of the World The Lewis Publishing Company, 1888
29 Differing sources identify Jacob and Theodore Lenzen as brothers
30 Glory Anne Laffey Archives & Architecture “Historic Resources Inventory: Survey Ref No 98, Odd Fellows Building.” DPR Survey, California Office of Historic Preservation, 1991
C HATTEL , I NC | H ISTORIC P RESERVATION C ONSULTANTS 22
Historic Resource Assessment
The research supporting this Historic Resource Assessment confirms that the subject property contributes to the San Jose Downtown Commercial District, which is listed on the National Register and automatically included in the California Register It is designated as City Historic Landmark No 80 The property is individually significant for its associations with notable figures like San Jose Mayor Adolph Pfister and James Hagan, its role in the early history of the city as the oldest remaining building in the public library system, and its connection to Garden City Lodge No 142 of the Independent Order of Odd Fellows It also exemplifies the work of Jacob Lenzen & Son Architects, showcases Italianate architectural style, and demonstrates construction methods no longer in common use, confirming its eligibility as a significant historical resource under CEQA.
NATIONAL REGISTER-LISTED SAN JOSE DOWNTOWN COMMERCIAL DISTRICT
The San Jose Downtown Commercial District, listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1983, encompasses 30 contributing buildings and sites, reflecting its historical significance The district also includes 16 non-contributing buildings and sites According to the National Register nomination, the district is recognized for its architectural and historical importance within San Jose’s urban development This designation highlights the district's role in the city's commercial growth and its preserved historic character.
The historic district is significant from both an historical and architectural perspective, showcasing sites from the 1870s that highlight the emergence of the American city It also includes 1890s landmarks reflecting San Jose’s prosperous agricultural boom, and 1920s structures representing the South Bay Area’s early skyscraper construction This diverse range makes the district uniquely comprehensive in its portrayal of California commercial architecture, unparalleled within Santa Clara County.
The subject property is a designated district contributor, recognized for its historical significance in representing sites dating from the 1870s It is highlighted in the district’s statement of significance, underscoring its importance as a preserved example of late 19th-century architecture and community development This property's inclusion emphasizes its role in illustrating the historical character and cultural heritage of the district.
The three-story Italianate Oddfellows Building, located at the corner of Santa Clara and 3rd Streets, stands as the best remaining example of downtown commercial architecture from the 1870s and 1880s within the proposed district Built in 1883, this historic structure exemplifies the architectural style and commercial design of its era, making it a significant landmark for preserving downtown's architectural heritage.
Additionally, the National Register nomination references Jacob Lenzen, architect of the east portion of the subject property, as one of the “finest local architects,” 65 thus confirming his significance
62 Bonnie Bamburg Urban/Rural Conservation “National Register of Historic Places Inventory—
Nomination Form: San Jose Downtown Commercial District.” Survey, United States Department of the Interior,
C HATTEL , I NC | H ISTORIC P RESERVATION C ONSULTANTS 28
Therefore, the subject property is significant as a district contributor for representing downtown commercial architecture of the 1870s and 1880s, and as a property designed by a significant local architect
SAN JOSE HISTORIC LANDMARK NO 80
The Odd Fellows Building was designated San Jose Historic Landmark No 80 in 1980, and described as:
The Odd Fellows Building at 82 E Santa Clara Street is significant for its unique Italianate architectural style, highlighted by its distinctive cast iron components Additionally, its historical importance is tied to its association with the Odd Fellows Hall Association, reflecting its role in the community's social and cultural history.
Excerpted from City Resolution No 52673, the designation is based upon:
1 That the structure is of special historical architectural aesthetic value and interest
2 Representation of mid-19 th Century Italian Villa [sic] style commercial design
3 That the structure incorporates materials no longer in common use 67
Additional research confirms that the subject property holds significant historical, architectural, and aesthetic value due to its association with San Jose’s public library system, Mayor Adolph Pfister, business owner James Hagan, Jacob Lenzen & Son Architects, and the Odd Fellows social organization.
San Jose Mayor Adolph Pfister, who served from 1870 to 1873, played a vital role in the city's history by advocating for public library development, raising funds, and donating his salary, ultimately becoming the president of San Jose’s first public library Additional research indicates that Pfister was part of a French regiment that arrived in California in 1847 to facilitate colonization efforts The west portion of the subject property was historically known as the Pfister Building, highlighting its connection to Mayor Pfister This association makes the property significant in understanding San Jose’s early civic and architectural history.
Research shows that James Hagan, the former owner of the Hagan Building, founded San Jose’s first gas works company, pioneering the early adoption of gas lighting in the city As a building owner, Hagan also played a key role in establishing the public library by renting out the second-floor hall of his property These contributions make the subject property historically significant due to its association with James Hagan’s impact on San Jose’s development.
In a historic context written on San Jose’s Free Public Library system, the subject property was referenced with “the Hagan Building remains the oldest site that physically represents [sic] the
66 City Council Resolution of the Council of the City of San Jose Designating, Pursuant to Article VIII,
Chapter 14, Odd Fellows Building as a Landmark of Special Historical, Architectural, Cultural or Aesthetic Value or Interest Resolution No 52673 City of San Jose, February 22, 1980 2
Chattel, Inc | Historic Preservation Consultants highlights the importance of the subject property due to its association with the development of the free public library system in San Jose This connection underscores the property's historical significance within the city's cultural and educational heritage.
Jacob Lenzen & Son, Architects, were prolific in San Jose from the 1860s through the early 1900s, with a notable legacy of designing key buildings in the city The 1991 survey highlights the subject property as one of the few remaining, significant examples of Lenzen-designed architecture in downtown San Jose Following urban renewal efforts, many historic buildings have been lost, making this property an important surviving exemplar Therefore, the subject property holds historic significance as one of the few remaining structures associated with Jacob Lenzen & Son in downtown San Jose.
Additional research verifies that the subject property is linked to the Odd Fellows social organization Built around 1883 as the Garden City Lodge, this historic building was established following the 1868 Hayward earthquake The Odd Fellows Hall Association was instrumental in organizing and raising funds to support the construction of this significant community structure.
The Odd Fellows Building at the subject property was funded with $30,000 and served as a key location under the Odd Fellows Hall Association for 83 years Jakob Lenzen, one of its architects, was also a member of the Odd Fellows, highlighting the building's strong historical connection to the social organization in San Jose This association underscores the property's significance in local social and architectural history.
Based on Resolution Finding 2, additional research and on-site assessments verify that the subject property exemplifies the Italianate architectural style The property retains key physical features that convey its historical significance, as detailed in the Character-Defining Features section Consequently, this property is recognized as a significant representative of the Italianate commercial building type.
Additional research confirms that the property incorporates historic materials such as brick and cast iron, which are no longer commonly used According to the 1990 San Jose Historic Resources Inventory (HRI) survey conducted by the Historic Landmarks, these materials contribute to the property's historical significance.