HomeMy WebLinkAboutAgenda Bill 3.BPart2 07/12/2010`~
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CITY ~O.F 1~ETALUMA, CALIFORNIA
1VIElVIORANDUlVI
Co~nmunityDevelopmentDepartment,,PlanningDivision, 11 English Street, Petaluma, CA 94952
(707) 778-4301 Fax (707) 778-4498 E-mail: planning@ci.petaluma.ca.us
DATE': May 25, 2010 ~ AGENDA ITEM NO. 7
TO: Historic and Cultural. Preservation Committee
FROM: TiffanyRobbe; Senior Planner
REVIEWED BY: Geoff Bradley, Planning Manager
SUBJECT: 'PROPOSED .DESIGNATION OF THE BURDBLL BUILDING AT 405
EAST D STREET AS A LOCAL HISTORIC LANDMARK
~IEC®MINiEB~®A°f~~OP~~
Staff recoiiimends that the Historic and Cultural Preservation Committee adopt by Resolution a
recoi7imendation to the City Council that the Burdell Building at 405 East D Street be designated
as a~Local Historic Landmark. A proposed resolution is attached in.Attachment A.
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Project: ~ Burdell Building
405 East D Street
APN 00.7-L32-033
City File Number: 09-SPC-0159-CR
Project Planner: Tiffany Robbe, Senior Planner
Project Applicant:
Property ®wner:
Property Size:
David Martin
405 East D Street,.. Unit H
Petaluma, CA 94952
(707) 217-2983
same
1.45 acres
Site Characteristics: The Burdell Building is located on the north. cornier of East D and
Lakeville Streets directly across Lakeville from the old Depot buildings. Tlie Burdell Building
was constructed in 1:897. The site is flat. Neighboring uses include a restaurant, the visitor's
center and arts center, a railroad yard, a liquor store, and residential on Wilson Street. This site
is outside the boundaries of the Central Petaluma Specific .Plan, the Downtown Historic
Commercial .District, and the River Access and Enhancement. Plan. See Site Map Attachment B.
Existing Jse: Office and artsan/craft product manufacturing
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3' - '1
Pro~~osed ><Jse: No change
Current Zoning: Mixed Use (MUIa)
Proposed Zoning: No change.. Addition of Historic Landmark designation
Current General Plan Land Use: Mixed Use
Proposed General. Plan Land Use: No change
Subsequent Actions Required:
® City Council action by Ordinance on the Historic Landmark designation
~~®~9EG°~ ®~SC~fl~T'~®R9
The !Historic and Cultural Preservation Committee is asked to formally review and recommend
to the City Council whether to designate as a local landmark the building at 405 East D Street on
the northeast corner of Lakeville Street across from the Petaluma train depot. The building is
known as the Burdell Building and as Petaluma Ice and' Cold Storage. An evaluation has been
prepared by Diana J. Painter, an appropriately qualified architectural historian, which
recommends that the building be listed on Petaluma's historic register as a local landmark. No
changes to the building are proposed.
BACKGR®iTND
On July 11, 2002, the Historic and ~ Cultural Preservation Committee reviewed and approved
building modifications .including:.. adding the entry feature. and two entry dormers along
Lakeville, adding a parking lot-facing entry tower, adding wood windows in old holes, replacing
doors, and exposing the original brick facade. This approved work occurred slowly over the next
seven years.
On December 11, 2008, the Historic and Cultural Preservation- Committee reviewed a phase two
project which included only fagade modifications, with no interior work, no proposed use of the
attic, and no site plan or parking lot modifications. The Committee approved only the work
proposed on the Lakeville and' East D Street facades. Thee- Committee asked that the applicant
develop the overall building and site .program and have the details fully provided and reviewed
by staff before returning for review of the east/parking lot elevation modifications.
On August 25, 2009 the Historic and Cultural Preservation Committee reviewed and approved a
more detailed phase two project proposing modifications to the east/parking lot elevation,
including a second entry°tower, a series of dormers, a gable on the far/north end of that elevation,
and ~ a roof deck with rail: When completed, these motif cations will result in an additional
14,695 square feet of usable :area in the former attic and in 1.10 parking spaces in the combined
area that has historically been the Burdell yard/parking area and the parcel to the east (417 East
D Street).. Finding 4 of this August 2009 approval .found the building to be eligible for listing on
Petaluma's historic register as a local landmark and condition of approval 4 required that the
historic landmark listing process and review specified by the Implementing Zoning Ordinance
§ 15.040 (see Attachment C) occur prior to building permit final.
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BUIILDING HISTORY
The vernacular industrial building. was constructed in 1897 and featured a moderately pitched
gable roof with no eaves, brick masonry construction, and a corrugated iron roof with iron
ventilators along the ridge. It was. constructed for James Black Burden Sr. specifically to house
the Petaluma Ice and Cold Storage, the Burden Creamery, Western Refrigeration Co, and the
Petaluma Electric Light and Power Company. At the time of its construction,. it was said to be
the longest continuous front of any building in Sonoma County. The building is very significant
in Petaluma's history. It is tied to the settlement of the region through the Burden family's
association with Rancho Olompali and it is a major built reminder of James B. Burden Sr.'s
legacy in Sonoma and Marin Counties (along with the mansion at Olompali and the Novato
Bank). It was a hub of both the poultry and dairy industries. It was-the first local creamery and
had a large capacity, including the ability to produce 20,000 pounds of butter a day. It was the
first Petaluma cold storage facility; it kept eggs, milk, butter, acid cheese fresh while awaiting
transport. It included an ice manufacturing room, capable of producing 5 tons of ice a day
(reportedly, making Petaluma independent of Alaska for ice in the summer months) and distilled
water: It also produced Petaluma'~s electricity between 1897 and 1907. The other uses -dairy,
cold, storage, and ice -continued at the site for decades; Western Dairy Products operated there
through the early 1980's. Though the building was an industrial enterprise, at the time of its
construction, the newspapers reported it to be highly ornamental and a most valuable addition to
the depot area, where strangers first view the city. The Historical Resource Report prepared by
Diana J. Painter ("Report") includes great detail of the history of the Burden family, this
building, and its uses {see Attachment D).
The Report found that while the current owner is restoring many of the building features that
were removed. in earlier renovations, the number of changes that have occurred in the past and
present, particularly the addition of the two-story entry tower on the parking lot elevation that
essentially changed the back of the building to a "front", make the building ineligible for
individual listing on the National or State Registers. However, the building's Lakeville front is
largely intact or has been renovated in a consistent manner; thus,. the public face of the building
retains architectural. integrity. Because the public facing facade retains architectural integrity, the
Report finds the Burden Building eligible for listing on Petaluma's historic register as a local
landmark. It is also found eligible under California Register Criterion 1 for its association with
important patterns of local history and under Criterion 2 for its association with James B. Burden
Sr. While it is not eligible for the California Register under Criterion 3 for its architecture due to
changes on the back/east facade, the building still maintains its most important character-
defining elements, particularly on the public facades and continues to be an important presence
in the city today. The building retains integrity of location, setting, materials, and workmanship.
As such, the Report recommends that the building be listed on Petaluma's historic register as a
local landmark.
C STI4FF; ~PI~~YS1~
In Finding 4 of its August 2009 historic design review approval, the Historic and Cultural
Preservation Committee found the Burden Building to be "eligible for listing on Petaluma's
historic register as a local landmark, pursuant to the findings in and recommendation of the
historical evaluation". In condition 4 of that approval, the Historic and Cultural Preservation
Committee required that formal designation proceed. The designation process specified in
§ 15.040 of the City of Petaluma Implementing Zoning Ordinance ("IZO") requires a
recommendation from the Historic and Cultural Preservation Committee and an action to
designate by Ordinance from the City Council. At least one member of the 2009 Historic and
3 3-3
Cultural Preservation Committee expressed the opinion that the building is eligible for listing at
the State or national level because of its association with Burdell and the history of the city and
continued. that, for properties that are not primarily significant for architecture and design,
improvements on secondary elevations are less important and have less bearing on eligibility,
and that three of the elevations still retain enough of the historic design and materials to be
significant. Listing at the local level would not prohibit the owner from applying for an
additional designation at some later date.
SIGNIFICANCE OF DESIGNATION
The California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) requires the same review for structures that
are designated landmarks as for those found eligible for designation. CEQA also permits the
City; as lead agency on an environmental review to determine that a resource is a historical
resource even if it is not designated or eligible for inclusion on the State or local register.
Therefore, the process for review of any future modifications. will provide the same ability to
consider historic review as in the Committee's consideration of proposed modifications in 2008-
2009.
However, designation better protects the historic resource ,in the hypothetical case of a very small
modification that is exempt from CEQA. Review for compatibility and preservation of the
historic resource would be required in that case only for a designated property.
More significantly, formal designation of the Burdell .Building will serve to better identify the
known historic resource via the recordation of the designation on the title report of the subject
property, placement of the property on Petaluma's register of historic landmarks, and a
notation/overlay on the City's GIS system.
2025 GENERAL PLAN CONSIS~'ENCY
The proposed designation of the Burdell Building is consistent with policies contained in
General Plan 2025 in that the designation will help to identify, recognize, and protect Petaluma's
unique and irreplaceable cultural heritage (Goal 3-P-1). In addition, the designation conforms to
General Plan direction to require and/or encourage designation of local landmarks (3-P-1D). In
recommending that the City Council designate the Burdell Building, the Historic and Cultural
Preservation Committee will be acting in a manner consistent with applicable .General Plan
policy.
S'TB~FF SEC®EIfl~A~~®ATIO~1
This is a historically and visually significant building in the City. Staff supports previous
direction by the Historic and Cultural Preservation Committee and recommends that the
Committee recommend to .the City Council the designation of the Burdell Building as a local
landmark based on its association with important patterns of early history, its association with
James R. Burdell. Sr., a figure important to local history, and the building's Lakeville facade
which retains architectural integrity and elements defining its historic character. These
conclusions are supported by:
o the Historic Resource Report by Diana J. Painter (see Attachment D),
• the City's General Plan goals and policies (specifically 3-P-1), and
• the Historic and Cultural Preservation Committee's determination of the Burdell
Building's significance at the Committee's August 2009 hearing.
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LPl9.LtLIC C®~AME~9YS
A :Notice of Public Hearing was published in the Angus Courier on May 13, 2010 and sent to all
residents and property owners wthin'S00 :feet of the. project site;, as well as to Heritage Homes of
Petaluma and the Petaluma Museum -Association. As of the writing of this staff report; no
written communication has been received.,
AT~'ACF~ME~dTS
Attachment A: Resolution Recommending Designation of the Burdell Building at 405 East D
Street as a Local'Historc Landmark, with Draft.Findings and Conditions
Attachment B: Site Map
Attachment C: Implementing Zoning Ordinance Chapter 15: Preservation of the Cultural and
Historic Environment
Attachment D: Historic Resource Report, Diana J. Painter, Revised. October 2008
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EXHIBIT A
RESOLUTION RIO.2010-01
CITY O'F PETALUIIAA
hIISTO`RICAL ~-ND CULTURAL PRESERVATION C'O~AdtiflITTEE
~ECOMMEIVbING DESIGNATION OF THE' BURDEIh BUILDING AT 405 EAST D STREET
AS A LOCAL HISTORIC LAND'MARIC
APN 007-132-033'
City- File. Number: 09-SPC-0159-CR
WHEREAS, on August 25, 2009, the City of Petaluma`s Historic and Cultural, Preservation
Committee ("Committee",) initiat.e.d the designation of the Burdell:Building at 405 East D Street,
APN 007-132-033, ("Burdell Building'") as a local landmark as a condition of approval of
proposed. exterior and site plan modifications for the property; and
WHEREAS on May 25, 2010, the Committee held a duly noticed public hearing and
considered the proposed landmark.designaton;
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Committee hereby recommends to the City
Council that:
The Burdell Building be designated as a local historica- landmark, based on the following
findings:
A. Designation of the Burdell Building is consistent with, the; following objectives, policies,
and programs of the Petaluma General Plan 2025;
m 3-P-1(Goal): Identify, recognize, and protect Petaluma's unique and
irreplaceable cultural heritage.
® 3-P=1 D: Require and/or encourage designationof~local landmarks.
Designation of the Burdell Building will help the City further the historic preservation
objectives of Chapter 15 of the Implementing Zoning Qrdinance (IZO) in that it will
serve to promote the health, safety, and genera welfare of the public through the
protection. and perpetuation of'a building that is a reminder of past eras, events, and
persons important to local history and which provides a significant example of an
architec#ural style of the past by ensuring that the Burdell Building is subjecttoahe
historic preservation controls and standards in said Chapter.
C. The Historic Resource:Report prepared by Diana Painter of Painter Preservation and
Planning (revised date October 2008) ("Report"),supports eligibility of the Burdell
Building forlisting on Petaluma's historic register as a locdl landmark. The building's
Lakeville front is largely"intact or has been .renovated in a consistent manner; thus,
,the public face of the building retains architecturalintegrity. The Report finds the
Burdell building eligible for listing under California Register Criterion 1 for its association
with. important pattern"s of local history and under California Register Criterian.2 for its
association with James B. Burdell Sr. The Report finds that locally listing the building is
appropriate as it still maintains its most important character-defining elements,
particularly on the public facades and continues to be an important presence in the
city~foday. The building retains integrity of locations, setting, materials, and
workmanship.
HCPC Resolution`No..2010-01 ~!~
2. Pursuan# to IZO §15;040.8 and. as supported by the Report, the Committee recommends
thdt'the Ordinance designating the landmark. include:
A. The following description of'the characteristics of the landmark which justify its
designation:
l . Criterion 1: The building' associate ,with important patterns of. local history.,
It was sited in the then ,indusfrial .heart of the °cty;,where ,goods were
manufactured and shipped pia rfiilroad to supply San Francisco. It was a hub
of both the poultry and dairy industries. It wqs the first local creamery and had
a large capacity, including the ability to produce 20;000 pounds of butter a
day. It wfis the first Petaluma cold storage; facility;. it kept eggs, milk, buffer, and
cheese fresh while awaifing transport. It distilled•water and ihcluded an ice
manufacturing room, capable of producih,g 5 tons .of ice a day, reportedly,
making Petfilumfi:indeperident of Alaska for ice in the summer months. It also
.produced Petaluma's electricity between 1897 fihd 1907.
2. Criterion 2: The building's association with James B.,Burdell Sr.
It is tied to thesettlement of the region through the Burdell family's association
with Rancho. Olompali grid is a major built reminder of~James 8. Burdell Sr.'s
legacy.in Sonoma and'Marin Counties (alongwiththe mansion at Olompali
.and ;the. Novato_B:ank).
3. Criterion 3: The public face. of the building retains architectural integrity. The
building's Lfikeville front is largely intact or has been renovated in a consistent
manner.
The Lakeville fa.gade still maintains its most important character-defining
elements, particulfir'ly on -the public facades and continues to be an important
presence in the city today. Aspects of the b.uildirig still read and convey its
significance fis anindustrial structure; from the public facades the building still
consists of a large, linear structure with gable Yoof with close eaves and
regularly spaced ventilators at the ridgeline.
4. The building retains integrity of locatioh, setting, materials, and workmanship.
B. The following list of,pfirticular features are to be preserved:
1. The overfill building form, particularly as viewed. from the intersection of
Lakeville and East D Streets and from the public facades, which still consists of a
large, linear structure-with gable roof with close eaves and regularly spaced
ventilators at the ~idgeline
2. The. brick masonry of the building and corrugated metal roofing materials
3. The overall repetfive pattern of the windows within the articulated bays
4. The profile of the building ridge with its metal; ventilators
S The: portico along Lakeville Street and the prominent gable end, which will ih
the future have a round.. feature much like it originally had
6. The. remains.of the painted signs on the two gable. ends
7. The shallow-arched window and door openings and the wood-frame, four-
over'-four-lighf windows
8,. The shallow pilasters and corbelled frieze band that define the building bays
. C. The location of the landmark as 405 East D Street and.the boundaries of the
landmark as the assessor's parcel number 007-132-033 (a 176 by 331 foot parcel).
3. The; following conditions of approval shall apply to the property to at 405 East D Street:
A. The Burdell :Building shall be placed on Petaluma's register of historic landmarks.
HCPC Resolution No. 20.10-01 ~/~
L3. Prior to building permit' final„ the designation shall~be. recorded by the applicant or
the historical,consultantwith the Sonoma County Recorder' office ds a deed
restriction. Proof of such re'coraation shall be pro~ided'to the .Planning Division prior to
any building permit final relating to SPARC approvdl 09-SPC-0159-CR.
C. The `Burdell Building shall be subject. to the provisions. of IZO Chapter 15: Preservation
of fhe' Culturdl dnd Historic Environment. Pursuant to IZO § 15:040.) and any
subsequent amendments thereto, future construction, aLferations, demolition, repair,
mainfenance, or removal'work for which a City permit is.required for the Burdell
.:Building shall first be re~ievved. and approved by the Historic and Cultural Preservation
Committee .according. to the standards of review set by IZO § 15.070 and any
subsequent amendments thereto.
ADOPTED this 25TH day of May 201.0, by the following vote:.
Committee Member ( Aye fVo Absent Abstain
Abercrombie X
Chair Arras X
BarretF X
Elias X ~ .
Hurley X
Johansen X
Kosewic X
Secretary Pierre X
Wolpert X
ATTEST:
eoffi Brd ley; Conirriif;tee Secret -
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f ~`
Christopher Arras, Chair
APPROVED AS TO FORM:
Leslie Thomsen, Assistant City Attorney
~/ D
HCPC Resolution No. 2010-O1 -
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Site Map - EXHIBIT B
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EXHIBIT C
Implementing Zoning ,Ordinance
Chapter 15 Preservation of the Cultural and.. Historic Environment
15.010- Purpose
It is hereby found that structures, sites and areas of special character of special historic, architectural or aesthetic interest or value
have. been and continue. to be unnecessarily destroyed or impaired, despite the feasibility of preserving them. It is further found
that the public health, safety, and welfare require prevention df needless destruction and impairment, and promotion of the
economic utilization and discouragement of the decay and desuetude of such structures, sites and areas. The purpose of this
Chapter is to promote the health, safety, and general welfare of the public through:
A. The protection, enhancement, perpetuation, and use of buildings, structures, sites, objects, and districts, including
archaeological sites, that are reminders of past eras, events, and persons important to local, state, or national
history, or which provide significant examples of architectural styles of the past or area landmarks in the history of
architecture, or which are unique and irreplaceable assets to the City.and its neighborhoods, or which provide for
this and future generations examples of the physical surroundings in which past generations lived.
B. The development and maintenance of appropriate settings and environments for such structures.
C. The enhancement of property values, the stabilization of neighborhoods and areas of the City, the increase of
economic and financial benefits to the City and its inhabitants, and the promotion of tourist trade and interest.
D. The enrichment of human life in its educational and cultural "dimensions by serving aesthetic as well as material
needs and fostering knowledge of the living heritage of the past.
15.020 - Powers and Duties of the Planning Commission and Historic and Cultural Preservation
Committee
The Planning Commission and the Historic and Cultural Preservation Committee have the following powers and duties in the
execution of this section of the Zoning Ordinance.
A. The Planning Commission:
1. Shall, after conducting a ,public hearing, make a recommendation to the City Council, concerning
designation of landmarks and historic districts, as provided in Section 15.040(G) of this Chapter.
2. Landmarks shall be defined as buildings or sites listed on the State Office of Historic Preservation's
directory of historic properties (i.e., Historic Properties .Data Inventory), or designated by the City as a
local landmark, except that building or sites located within the. National.Historic Register District shall not
automatically be considered to be a landmark, unless individually so designated by the City Council, in
accordance with the provisions of this Chapter.
3. May establish and maintain a list of structures and other landmarks deserving official recognition
although not designated as landmarks or historic districts, and take appropriate measures for recognition.
4. Shall hear and approve, approve with modifications, or disapprove permit applications for construction,
alteration, demolition, and repair or maintenance work to a designated landmark site or structure in
accordance with Section 15.050(A) of this Chapter.
B. The Historic and Cultural Preservation Committee:
Shall hear and make a recommendation to the Planning Commission, as required by this Article, on
applications for the designation of landmarks and historic districts, and on permit applications for
construction, alteration, demolition and repair or maintenance work on landmark sites or structures. The
Historic and Cultural Preservation Committee shall hear and approve, approve with modifications, or
disapprove applications for construction, alteration, demolition, and repair or maintenance work on
structures in historic districts, as provided in Sections 15.050 and 15.070 of this Chapter.
Ordinance No. 2300 N.C.S.
101
3-l0
Implementing Zoning Ordinance
2. May take steps to encourage or bring about preservation of structures or other features where the
Historic and Cultural Preservation Committee ,recommended and the Planning Commission determined
to suspend action on a permit application as provided in Section 15.060.
3. May, upon the request of the property owner, advise with respect to any proposed work not requiring a
City permit on a designated landmark site or in a designated historic district. Examples of the work
referred to are painting and repainting of exterior surfaces, roofing, fencing, landscaping; glazing, and
installation of light fixtures. In advising, the Historic and Cultural Preservation Committee shall be guided
by the purposes and standards specified in this Chapter. This part, Section 15.020(63), does not impose
regulations or controls on any property.
4. The Historic and Cultural Preservation Committee shall consist of fhe membership of the Site Plan and
Architectural Review Committee and two additional members, one representing the Petaluma Historical
Museum and one rep"reseriting Heritage Homes of Petaluma.
C. Both the Planning Commission and the Historic and Cultural Preservation Committee may consult with and shall
consider the ideas and recommendations of recognized historic preservation organizations, and in cases affecting
commercial property, the affected business community, and obtain professional advice as may be deemed
necessary.
15.030- Recognized Historic Preservation Organization
Recognized historic preservation organizations are defined as registered nonprofit organizations composed of citizens interested.
in historic preservation.
15.040 -Designation of Landmarks and Historic.District by Ordinance
A. The City Council may by ordinance designate:
1. One or more individual structures or other features, or integrated groups of structures and features on
one or more lots or sites, having a special character or special, historical; architectural, or aesthetic
interest or value, as landmarks, and shall designate a landmark site for each landmark.
2. One or more areas containing a number of structures having special character or special historical
architectural or aesthetic interesting value, and constituting. distihct sections of the City, as historic
districts.
B. Each designating ordinance shall include a description of the characteristics of the landmark or historic district
which .justify its designation, and a list of any particular features in addition to those features which would be
affected by work described in Section 15.050(A1-2) that are to be preserved, and shall specify the location and
boundaries of the landmark site.or historic district.
C. The property designated as a landmark or a historic district shall be subject to the control and standards contained
in this Chapter. In addition, the property shall be subject to the following further controls and standards if imposed
by the designating ordinance:
1. For a publicly owned landmark, review of proposed changes in~major interior architectural features.
2. For a historic district, such further controls and standards as the City Council finds necessary or
desirable,. including, but not limited to, facade, setbacks, and height~controls.
D. The City Council may amend or rescind a designation only by ordinance. The procedure for amending or
rescinding a designation shall be the same as that for the original designation.
Ordinance No. 2300 N.C.S. 102
3 - ~'
Implementing Zoning Ordinance
E. Initiation of Designation. Initiation of designation proceedings shall be by resolution of the City Council, or by the
written application of the property owners. The Planning Commission and the Historic and' Cultural Preservation
Committee may initiate and recommend the designation of a landmadc or historic district to the City Council.
Applications for designations shall be filed with the Community Developmeht Department upon forms prescribed by
the Director and shall be accompanied by all data required by the Planning Commission. An application for
designation of a historic district must be described by or on behalf of at least fifty-one percent (51 %) of the property
owners in the proposed district. The date of initiation is the date the resolution is adopted or a valid application is
filed.
F. Procedure. Where Planning Commission and City Council hearirgs are required, the proceedings for
recommendation and for referral in cases where the City Council does not follow the recommendation, shall be the
same as those provided in Chapter 25 (Amendments) for rezoning.
G. Hearing by Historic and Cultural Preservation Committee and Planning Commission. The Historic and
Cultural Preservation Committee and the Planning Commission shall hold public hearings on a proposal to
designate a landmark or historic district, with notice given as provided for rezonings in Section 25.050(A). Notice
shall also be mailed to recognized historic preservation organizations.
Action and Time Limit. The Historic and Cultural Preservation Committee shall make a
recommendation to the Planning Commission on the designation. The Planning Commission shall
consider the degree of conformity of the proposed designation with the purposes and standards of this
Chapter and the General Plan. The Planning Commission shall make a recommendation to the City
Council to approve, approve with modifications, or disapprove the proposal within one hundred twenty
(120) days after the initiation of designation prdceedings. If the Planning Commission disapproves the
proposal, no further action shall be required unless appealed.
2. Notice of Action. The- Planning Commission shall promptly notify the applicant of action taken. If the
Planning Commission approves or modifies the proposed designation in whole or in part, it shall transmit
the proposal, together with a copy of the resolution of approval, to the City Council.
H. Designation by City Council. The City Council shall hold a public hearing concerning the designation. Notice of
time and place of the hearing shall be given in the time and manner provided for the giving of notice, of the hearing
by the Commission. The City Council may approve, or modify and approve, or deny the designation.
I. Notice of Designation by City Council: When a landmark or historic district has been designated by the City
Council, the City Clerk shall promptly notifythe owners of the property included therein. The City Clerk shall cause
a copy of the designating ordinance, or notice thereof, to be recorded in the office of the County Recorder.
J. Conformity Required. Construction, alteration, demolition., repair, maintenance, or removal work for which a City
permit is required is prohibited on a designated landmark site or in a designated historic district unless reviewed by
the Historic and Cultural Preservation Commission and/or approved by the Planning Commission, as provided in
Section 15.050 and 15.070, or unless the work conforms with the provisions of Section 15.100(6), Unsafe or
Dangerous Conditions.
15.050 -Review of Permit Applications to Construct or Alter Designated Structures or Structures
in Designated Areas
A. Permit Required for Work to a Designated Landmark Site or Structure. No person shall do any work listed
below to a designated landmark site or structure without first obtaining review by the Historic and Cultural
Preservation Committee and grant of a permit from the Planning Commission.
Except where. Planning Commission approval is required for work to a designated landmark site or structure, work
listed below on any.other structure or site within a designated historic district, shall require approval of only the
Historic and Cultural Preservation Committee, pursuant to procedures in Section 24..010 et al.
Ordinance No. 2300 N.C.S. 103
-~Z
Implementing Zoning Ordinance
1. Exterior alterations, as defined below, shall be subject to review and approvaLby the Historic and Cultural
Preservation Committee. Alterations of a minor nature, as defined below, shall be subject to
administrative review and approval, but shall not require public noticing.
2. Alteration shall be defihed as any change, including repair or replacement of damaged or worn materials,
to the exterior appearance of a building;: and shall include, but is not limited to, finish materials; windows;
doors; signs, including the removal, repair, or repainting of historic signs; awnings; threshold materials;
and change in paint colors. Alteration shall also include, but is not limited to, proposals which affect the
streetscape, such as landscaping; light poles; outdoor use areas; and mechanical equipment.
3. Minor nature shall be defined .to include, but is not limited. to, alterations which involve routine
mairitenance, paint touch-up, or repainting with. same colors, which does not substantially change the
existing appearance of the structure. Exterior alterations of a minor nature should follow the
recommendations of the Petaluma Historic Commercial Disfrict Design Guidelines.
B. Application for Permit. The Department shall maintain a current record of designated landmarks and historic
districts, and such lists shall, be referred to by the Building Division before issuance df permits. Applications for
permits to do work for which a permit is required by Section 15.050(A) shall be submitted to the Community
Development.Department for processing. -Application shall include plans and specifications showing the proposed
exterior appearance, color, and texture of materials, and the proposed architectural design of the exterior of the
structure. Where required by the Historic and Cultural Preservation Committee, applications shall also show the
relationship of the proposed work to the environs. If the application does not .provide sufficient information for
review by the Historic and Cultural Preservation Committee, the Department shall require the omitted information
from the applicant.
C. Procedure. Where Historic and Cultural Preservation Committee recommendations. and Planning Commission
hearings are provided for by this Chapter, the proceedings for action,. referral and appeal shall be the same as
those provided in Section 24.030(E) and (F) for conditional use permits.
D. Hearing by Planning Commission. The Planning Commission shall hold a public hearing on the applications for
modifications to landmark sites per Section 15.050(A). Notice of such hearing into be given as required for
conditional use permits in Section 24.030(E) and (F) and shall include written notice to recognized historical
preservation organizations.
15.060 -Review of Applications for Demolition Permits
A. Applications for Demolition Permits. Applications for demolition permits shall be referred to the Historic and
Cultural Preservation Committee for review and determination, when the Director determines that a structure has
potential historic or cultural significance. The following exceptions to this provision shall apply: permits for
buildings posing an immediate danger to the public safety, health and welfare, as determined by the Director and
the Chief Building Official; and/or applications of a routine, minor nature not. warranting further review, as
determined by the Director. When demolition of a historic structure'is permitted, the applicant shall be required to
salvage, to the extent possible, building materials, fixtures, doors, and other items of a historic nature, for reuse or
to be made available to interested parties.
When determining whether a structure has potential historic or cultural significance, the Director may require the
property owner to submit an official evaluation of the property prepared by a qualified historian or archaeologist,
and may use the following California Register of Historical Resources criteria, which states that a resource may be
significant if it is:
1. Associated with events that have made a significant contribution to the broad patterns of local or regional
history, or the cultural heritage of California or the United States;
Ordinance No. 2300 N.C.S.. 104
3-13
Implementing Zoning Ordinance
2. Associated with the lives of persons important to local, California, or national history;
3. Embodies the distinctive characteristics of a #ype; period, region, or method of construction, or represents
the work of a master, or possesses high artistic value; or
4. Has yielded, or has the potential to yield; information important to the prehistory or history of the local
area, California, or the nation.
B. Findings.
1. Finding of No Significance. if the Historic and Cultural Preservation Committee determines that a
structure is not culturally or historically significant, the application shall be returned to the Director with a
finding of no significance and the demolition permit shall be issued.
2. Finding of Significance. In cases where the Historic and Cultural Preservation Committee determines
the structure has cultural or historical significance, the Committee shall make the findings as outlined
below, deny the application for demolition, except as provided in Section 15.080 of this Chapter, and
shall forward its decision to-the Director. Mandatory findings'are as follows:
a. The structure is of historical%cultural significance when listed on a local, state, or national
register or survey.
b. The structure is eligible for listing on a local, state, or national register or survey.
c. Demolition of said structure will be detrimental to the aesthetic and/or economic vitality of the
community.
d. Any of the criteria used by the Director to determine the historical or cultural significance of the
property.
15.070 -Review of Applications to Construct, Alter; or Demolish Designated Structures or
Structures in Designated Areas
A. Standards. for Review. When evaluating applications, the Historic and Cultural Preservation Committee and
Planning Commission shall use the California Register of Historic Resources criteria outlined in Section
15.060(A)(1-4), the Secretary of the Interiors Standards for Rehabilitation and Guidelines for Rehabilitating Historic
Buildings, and shall consider .the architectural style of 'the _ building, design, arrangement, relationship to
surrounding buildings and historic character of the area, texture, materials, color, and any other pertinent factors.
Applications shall not be approved unless:
1. Landmark Sites. The proposed work shall not adversely affect-the exteriorarchitectural characteristics
or other features of the landmark, and, where specified in the designating ordinance for a publicly owned
landmark, its major interior architectural features, nor adversely affect the character or historical,
architectural, or aesthetic interest or value of the landmark and its site.
Historic Districts. The proposed work shall not adversely affecf the exterior architectural characteristics
or other features of the property which is the subject of the application, nor adversely affect its
relationship in terms of harmony and appropriateness with its surroundings, including neighboring
structures, nor adversely affect the character, or the historical, architectural, or aesthetic interest or value
of the district. In addition, applications shall be consistent with standards included in the designating
ordinance.
15.080 -Showing of Hardship in Cases of Proposed Alteration, Demolition, or Construction
If the applicant presents facts clearly demonstrating to the satisfaction of the appropriate reviewing body that failure to approve
the application will cause immediate and substantial hardship because of conditions peculiar to the particular structure or other
Ordinance No. 2300 N.C.S. 105
3 - t'~
Implementing Zoning Ordinance
features involved and not created by an act of the owner, the reviewing body may approve such application even though it does
not meet the standards set forth in either the enabling or designating ordinance. In this context, personal, family or financial
difficulties, loss of prospective profits and neighboring violations are not justifiable hardships. The reviewingbody may require the
applicant to provide documentation, such as structural engineering reports, verifying hardship.
15.090 -Director Referral to Historic and Cultural Preservation Committee
The Director may refer other projects which are not designated as landmarks or which are not located within an historic district, to
the Historic and Cultural Preservation Committee for approval upon determining .that the site or structure may be of historic or
cultural significance, in accordance with any of the findings listed under Section 15.060 (A)(1-4), of this Chapter.
15.100 -Applicability and Enforcement
A. Applicability.
No application for a permit to construct, alter, demolish, or remove any structure or otherfeafure on a
proposed landmark site or in a proposed historic district, filed subsequent to' the date of initiation or
proceedings to designate the landmark site or historic district,, shall be approved while the proceedings
are pending; provided, however, that if final action on the desighation has not been completed one
hundred eighty (180) days after initiation of designation proceedings; the permit application may be
approved.
2. The provisions of this Chapter shall be inapplicable to the construction, alteration, demolition, or removal
of any structure or other feature of a landmark site or in a historic district, where a permit for the
performance of such work was issued prior to initiation of proceedings for designation of the landmark
site or historic district, and where such permit has not expired. or been canceled or revoked, provided that
construction is started and diligently prosecuted to completion in accordance with the Building Code.
B. Unsafe or Dangerous Conditions. None of the provisions of this Chapter shall prevent any .measures or
construction, alteration, or demolition necessary to correct the unsafe or dangerous condition of any structure,
other feature, or part thereof, where such condition has been declared unsafe or dangerous by the Chief Building
Official or the Fire Marshal, and where the proposed measures Have been declared. necessary by such official to
correct the said condition; provided, however, that only such work as is absolutely necessary to correct the unsafe
or dangerous condition and as is done with due regard for preservation of the appearance of the structure involved,
may be performed pursuant to this section. In the event any structure or other feature shall be damaged by fire, or
other calamity, or by act of God, to such an extent that in the opinion of the aforesaid officials it cannot be
reasonably repaired and restored; it may be removed in coriformity with normal permit procedures and applicable
laws.
C. Duty to Keep in Good Repair. The owner, lessee, and other person in actual charge or possession of a
landmark, a structure in a historic district, or any other cultural or historically significant property, shall keep in good
repair all of the exterior portions of such landmark or structure, all of the interior portions thereof when subject to
control as specified in the designating ordinance; and all interior portions thereof whose maintenance is necessary
to prevent deterioration and decay of any exterior portiori.
D. Filing Fees. There shall be no filing fees .beyond those required by other sections of the City Code for any
application, or to commence any proceedings under this Chapter.
E. Methods of Enforcement. This section shall be enforced in accordance with the provisions of Section,26.010 and
Section 26.020 of the Zoning' Ordinance and Section 1.08.010 of the Petaluma Municipal Code dated January
1972. The Director shall have the authority to implement the enforcement thereof by serving notice requiring the
removal of any violation of this Chapter upon the owner, agent, tenant, or occupant of the building or land, or upon
the architect, builder, contractor, or other person who commits or assists in any such violation.
15.110 -Adoption of Design Guidelines
Ordinance No. 2300 N.C.S. 106
3 - IS
Implementing Zoning Ordinance
The City Council may, by resolution, adopt design. guidelines and preservation guidelines to be applied to an historic district.
Major amendment to such guidelines shall be by resolution'of the City Council. Minor amendments which do not affect the intent
of the Guidelines or result in a substantial change #o standards orrecommendations maybe administered by staff.
Ordinance No. 2300 N.C.S. 107
3- l~
EXF-IIBIT D
PETALUMA ICE AND COLD STORAGE CO.
Petaluma, California
HISTORIC RESOURCE
REPORT
Prepared by
Painter Preservation & Planning
Petaluma, California
Prepared for
Creedence Construction &
the City of Petaluma
Petaluma, California
March 2008; revised October 2008
~~~~~v~~
NOV d 4 2008
COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT DEPARTMENT
3~~`~
PAiNTEA .
PRESERVATION
''PLAI`l]`IDYC1
HISTORIC PRESERVIKIYOH & [IRBAIi DESINY
October 29, 2008.
Ivls. Tiffany Robbe
City of Petaluma
Department of Community Development
11 English Street
Petaluma, CA 94952
lLte Petaluma Ice and Cold Storage Co. Historic Resource Report
Dear Tiffany,
I have reviewed the drawings-dated June 1'0, 2007, updated to October 27, 2008, for the proposed
renovation of the Petaluma Ice and Cold Storage Co. building and I believe that the design
proposal is appropriate and meets the Secretary of Interior's Standards for Rehabilitation for the
work being proposed for this phase. Attached is the Historic Resource Report for the building.
The Petaluma Ice and Cold Storage building is rated " 3 S" on the State of California's Directory
of Properties in the Historic Property DataFile, which means "Appears eligible for National
Register as an individual property through survey evaluation." :This determination was based on
the 1976 Peterson reconnaissance survey of Petaluma. ' .
My conclusion after conducting this intensive survey of the building is that it is not eligible for
individual listing on the National and State Registers due to the number of changes that have
occurred on the building in the past and present. While David Martin, the current owner, is
actually restoring many of building, features that were removed in earlier renovations, the addition
of the two-story entry tower at the rear =which was approved by the city in a building permit
issued in 2002 -precludes individual listing on these Registers in my professional opinion.
This is because this new element essentiallychanges the orientation of the back of the building to
a building `front,' and the tower is visible from the surrounding area. The changes proposed here
continue to make this building `back' more attractive as an entry facade. The building front,
however, (.which faces onto P.etaluma's historic train depot); is largely intact or has been
renovated in a manner that is consistent with the Secretary of Interior's Standards. In other
words, the public faces of the building retain greater. integrity.
Irecommend that the building be listed on Petaluma's historic register as a local landmark. It is
eligible for local listing under Criterion 1, for its association with important patterns. of local
history and under Criterion 2, for its association with James B. Burdell Sr. It is not eligible under
Criterion 3, far its architecture, due to changes on the north (back) facade from about 1915
through to the present. ~ However, it still maintains its most important character-defming elements,
particularly on the public facades, and a building can have slightly lower levels of integrity if it is
7 FOURTIi STREET, SUITE 44 • PETALUMA, CA 94952 • 707.763.6500 • liana@preservationplans.com
3-[~
Petaluma Ice and Cold Storage Co.
September 25, 2008
Page 3 of 76
nominated under Criteria 1 and 2. There is no doubt that the building is very significant in
Petaluma's history and is an important presence in the city today.
The current proposal does the following:
• It removes a dormer on the north side of the building that was added eazlier, and is not in
keeping with the quality of the remainder of the building;
• It adds a secondary entrance tower on the north facade that is a visual counterpart to the
first one;
• It adds a gable on the west end of.the north fagade, which repeats the proportions of the
gable ends and visually balances this fagade;
• It adds a series of dormers that reinforce the repetitive nature of an industrial building
such as this and repeats a treatment that was established eazlier with the dormers on the
front (south) fagade; and
• It removes later, non-contributing features and materials. and reinstates the brick pilasters
and window design that will make the north fagade more consistent with how it appeared
in the past (prior to 1919 in some cases) and more consistent with the remainder of the
building.
• (Note that a spire in the first tower was not previously permitted and will be discussed in
this report).
The character-defining qualities that the building retains and/or that are being reinstated are:
• The overall building form, particularly as viewed from the intersection of Lakeville and
E. D Streets.
• The brick masonry of the building and corrugated metal roofing materials.
• The overall repetitive,pattern of the windows within the arkiculated bays (note that the
windows have been and. are being restored by the building owner in a manner that meets
the Secretary of Interior's Standards).
• The profile of the building ridge with its metal ventilators.
• The portico along Lakeville Street and the prominent gable end, which will in the future
have a round feature much like it did originally (previously approved at a conceptual
level but not yet permitted).
• The remains of the painted signs on the two gable ends.
The Summary and Evaluation section of this report elaborates on the significance of the property
and includes a response to the Secretary of Interior's Standards, per Article 17 of Petaluma's
zoning ordinance, Section 17-507. Although the property is not a designated landmark (see 17-
509), it is assumed hexe"that a determination of eligibility carries the same weight as designation,
and the property is therefore subject to the Secretary of Interior's Standard, as noted above.
Sincerely,
Diana J. Painter, PhD
PrincipallArchitectural Historian
7 FOURTH STREET, SUITE 44 • PETALUlN11, CA 94952 • 707.763.6500 • diana@preservationplans.com
3- 19
PETALUMA ICE AND COLD STORAGE CO.
Petaluma, Califomia
HISTORIC RESOURCE
REPORT
Prepared by
Painter Preservation & Planning
.Petaluma, California
Prepared for
Creedence Construction
the City of Petaluma
Petaluma, California
~~~~~~~®
March 2008; revised October 2008 NOV 0 ~ 2008
COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT DEPARTMENT
'' 3 Zo
HISTORIC RESOURCE REPORT
PETALUMA ICE AND COLD STORAGE CO.
TABLE OF CONTENTS
SUMMARY AND SIGNIFICANCE
EVALUATION
RECOMMENDATIONS
1. INTRODUCTION ..................................................................10
Purpose of Report
Property Description and Setting
Project Description
2. HISTORIC CONTEXT.. ..........................................................12
The Burdell Family and Olompali
The Founding of East Petaluma
The Businesses
The Petaluma Ice and Cold Storage Co. Building
3. ARCHITECTURAL CONTEXT ....................................................25
Urban Conte
Architectural Description
Changes over Time
Architectural Context
4. REFERENCES .....................................................................32
FIGURES
DEPARTMENT OF PARKS AND RECREATION (DPR) FORMS 523
PAIfffER PRESERVATI011 ~PLAPII4II'i0
3-Zl
HISTORIC RESOURCE REPORT
PETALUMA ICE AND COLD STORAGE CO.
LIST OF FIGURES
Figure 1: Location map
Figure 2: Petaluma Cold Storage site in 1870
Figure 3: -Portrait of James B. Burden Sr.
Figure 4: Rendering of 19111 renovation of Olompali, ca. 1930
Figure 5: Photograph, of Olompali in 1943
Figure 6: 1913 Novato Bank
Figure 7: Burden Station at Olompali, 1915
Figure 8: Burdell's milk skimming station in 1894
Figure 9: Petaluma Cold Storage site in 1894
Figure 10: Burden's Creamery was located at the confluence of two rail lines and close
to the Steamer Gold landing in 1897
Figure 11: Petaluma Ice and Cold Storage, south and west facades, 1897
Figure 12: Petaluma Ice and Cold Storage, south and east facades, 1.897
Figure 13: Butter-Making Room, Creamery Department, Western Refrigerating Co.,
1897
Figure 14: View of the engine room, Western Refrigerating Co.,1897
Figure 15: Ice: Manufacturing.Department, Western Refrigerating Co., 1897
Figure 16: Petaluma Ice and Cold Storage in 1906
Figure 17: Petaluma Ice and. Cold Storage stack after 1906 earthquake
Figure 18: Petaluma Ice and Cold Storage in 1910
Figure 19: Advertisement for Western Refrigerating Co„ ca. 1910
Figure 20: Advertisement for Western Refrigerating Co. in 1910
Figure 21: Western Refrigerating Co., 1915
Figure 22: Advertisement for Petaluma Ice and Cold Storage, 1915
Figure 23: Petaluma Ice and Cold Storage in 1919
Figure 24: Petaluma Ice and Cold Storage in 1923
Figure 25: Branch of Western Refrigerating Co., 1929
Figure 26: National Ice and Cold Storage in 1956
Figure 27: Western,Dairy Products in the 1970s
Figure 28: Western Dairy Products, 1978
PAIP[i'ER PRE9ERVATIOn ~PLAI'If{II'i~
3-22
HISTORIC RESOURCE REPORT
PETALUMA ICE AND COLD STORAGE CO.
SUMMARY & SIGNIFICANCE
The Petaluma Ice and Cold Storage Co. building is a large industrial complex, constructed in
1 897, which occupies about a.quarter block area in the northwest quadrant of the intersection of
Lakeville and E. D Streets. The building is located atback-of-sidewalk on Lakeville and E. D
Street, while accessory structures and parking occupies the north half of the parcel.
The planned changes to the buildingcontinue adesign concept that was initiated and permitted in
2002 that removes later non-contributing changes to the rear (north) facade of the building and
constructs improvements that will make this building fagade, the rear ofthe building, more
attractive and increase the usable space in the building.
The Petaluma Ice and Cold Storage building is rated " 3 S" on the State of California's Directory
of Properties in the Historic Property Data File, which means "Appears eligible for National
Register as an individual property through survey evaluation." This determination was based on
the 1.976 Peterson. reconnaissance survey of Petaluma. My conclusion,after conducting this
intensive survey of the building is that it is not eligible individual listing on the National or
California Registers due to the number of°changes that have occurred on the building in the past
and present.
Nonetheless, I recommend that the building be rated "S S3 -Appears to be individually eligible
for local listing or designation through survey evaluation," and be listed on Petaluma's historic
register as a local landmark. It is eligible for local listing under Criteria 1, as outlined in the City
of Petaluma Zoning Ordinance 17-507 for its association with importantpatterns of local history
and under Criterion 2, under the same section, for its association with James B. Burdell Sr. It is
not eligible under Criterion 3, for its architecture, due to changes on the north (back) fagade from
about 1915 through to the present. However,. it still maintains its most important character-
defining elements, particularly on the public facades, and continues to be an important presence
in the city today. The building retains integrity of location, setting, materials and workmanship.
Its does not retain integrity of design, feeling and association.
EVALUATION
The following is an evaluation of the proposed changes to the building with respect to the
Secretary of Interior's Standards, per City of Petaluma zoning ordinance, Section 17-507..
SECRETARY OF INTERIOR'S STANDARDS FOR REHABILITATION
A property will be used as it was historically or be given a new use that requires
minimal change to its distinctive materials, features, spaces, and spatial relationships.
The property was first used as an industrial and warehouse facility. It has also been
used in the past as a retail outlet for dairy and agricultural goods. In more recent
PAIt9TER PRESSRVATIOn ~PI,Ah[CfItiO
3 -2.3
Petaluma Ice and Cold Storage Co.
Historic Resource Report
Summary and Significance
years it was used as a combination of industrial and office facility. These latter uses
will continue with. this renovation.
2. The historic char' acter of a property will be retained. and preserved.. The removal of
distinctive materials°or alteration of features, spaces, and spatial relationships that
chazacterize a property will be avoided.
The character of the property is being retained and preserved. Many historic
features of the property have been reinstated in the previous renovations, and this
work will continue. here. No distinctive materials will be removed and no alterations
of sign cant features, spaces, and spatial relationships will occur. A number of
alterations made in the 1970s that are non-contributing features will be removed
3. Each property will be recognized as a physical record of its time, place, and use.
Changes that create a false sense of historical development, such as adding
conjectural features or elements from other historic properties, will not be
undertaken.
The design of elements that are being reinstated and/or added in this renovation,
including windows and doors, are based on photographic evidence of the building as
originally designed and constructed (the windows are compatible with the original
windows). Some additional windows and doors will be added to the. rear facade, but
in a way which does not compete with the importance of the front facade. Further,
their repetitive nature and respect for the existing building bays, is in keeping with the
character of the industrial building. The new dormers on the north facade respect
the character of the building. The first dormer, on the south facade, was in place by
the 1970s. The second dormer on this facade was approved by the City in 2002 and
constructed in 200.7,. The new dormers on the north facade are similar in design and
placement as the dormers that exist on the south facade. However, they are not
highly visible, as they are set back and will be largely imperceptible to pedestrians.
A spire has been added to the pyramidal roof of the first entry tower on the north
facade (which was. permitted and constructed under a previous permit). The
applicant is askingfor approval to retain this spire in this permit. The Silkl~ll,
which is two blocks from this building has two towers with spires on its south or
fronffa~ade. An entry tower was added to the Burden Building in 2002 to
accentuate the-rear entry and accommodate an elevator. This tower with the new
spire; while echoing the Silk Mill in concept, cannot be mistaken for it; as the
building elements on.the Burden Building are completely different in placement,
proportion;. and scale. Therefore, it is concluded~here that no addition of elements
from other historic properties -either in concept or actuality -has occurred.
Nonetheless, the second entry tower, proposed here as a part of this application,
takes. a different form,. having a flat roof with no additional roof feafures. This is to
distinguish it from the Silk X11, in addition to the fact that the second tower designed
in this way is more compatible with this facade than a second pyramidal tower would
be.
PAII'PI'ER PRESERVATIOI'{ ~PLAPIfIITiQ
3 - Z4
Petaluma Ice and Cold Storage Co.
Historic Resource Report
Summary and Significance
8
4. Changes to a property that have acquired historic significance in their own right will
be retained and preserved.
No changes, or features that have acquired historic significance in their own right are
being removed as a part of this project.. .
Distinctive materials, features, finishes and construction techniques or examples of
craftsmanship that characterize a property will.be preserved.
Distinctive materials, features, finishes, and techniques embodied in the building are
beingpreserved. Alterations and new features are designed and built with the same
materials and construction features as were used historically.
6. Deteriorated historic features will be repaired rather than replaced. Where the
severity of deterioration requires replacement of a:distinctive feature, the new feature
will match the old in design, color, texture, and, where possible, materials.
Replacement of missing features will be substantiated by documentary and physical
evidence.
Not applicable.
7. Chemical or physical treatments, if appropriate, will be undertaken using the gentlest
means possible. Treatments that cause damage to historic materials will not be used.
Not applicable. The stucco in the main gable end - a later addition -will be
retained as it is hazardous to remove the stucco with the gable end's proximity to
transmission lines. _
8. Archaeological resources•will be protected and preserved in place. If such resources
must be disturbed, mitigation measures will be undertaken.
Not applicable.
9. New additions, exterior alterations, or related new construction will not destroy
historic materials, features, and spatial relationships that chazacterize the property.
The new work shall be differentiated from the old. and will be compatible with the
historic materials, features, size, scale and proportion, and massing to protect the
integrity of the property and its environment.
Historic materials, features and spatial relationships will not be destroyed with the
planned exterior alterations. A number of small non-contributing additions and
features that were added in the 1970s will be removed. The new dormers will require
the removal of a small amount of existing (non-historic) roofing material and will
require that this area be re framed. All new work is compatible with historic
materials and features and their size, scale and proportion, and/or compatible with
features added as part of the 2002 renovation. The addition of a gable on the west
end of the north facade and the second e~itry tower will not have an appreciable
effect on massing.
PAlff['ER PRESERI(A'rtOn ~PLAT9IYII'iQ
3-Z5
Petaluma Ice and Cold Storage Co.
Historic Resource Report
Summary and Significance 9
10. New additions and adjacent or related new construction will be undertaken in such a
manner that, if removed in the future; the essential form and integrity of the historic
property and its environment would be unimpaired.
The additions -primarily the new gable on the west end of the north facade, the new
dormers, and the new entry tower -could be easily'removed in the future if the
existing form of the building was to be re-instated. The existing non-contributing ca
1970s additions could be reinstated in the future if it was desirable to bring the
building back to its present condition.
RECOMMENDATIONS
It is recommended here thatthe changes to the Petaluma Ice and Cold Storage Co. be approved as
proposed. These include the addition of the spire on the previously approved entry tower. As
discussed in this report, the addition of the tower and other changes on the north fagade of the
building that were previously approved (2002) fundamentally changed the orientation of the
building and undermined its eligibility for listing on the National and' California Registers, in this
author's professional opinion. The addition of the spire on the entry tower, the secondary entry
tower, and the gable on the west end is compatible with the building as it appears today and
provides an element of verticality and contrast between the new construction and the existing
low, horizontal aspect of this historic industrial building. All other changes are compatible with
the underlying characteristics ofthis building as well most industrial buildings. It is a long
simple mass designed to house equipment, whose most salient characteristics are repetition and
understated architectural details.
It is recommended that the proper construction date of 1897 be added fo the building fapade (at
present the date is not correct).
PAItirER PRESERVA'[10P[ ~PLdII'iPiII'[Q
3-2.6
HISTORIC RESOURCE REPORT
PETALUMA `ICE AND COLD. STORAGE CO.
1~. INTRODUCTION
A. .Purpose of Report
The purpose of this. Historic. Resource-Report is to establish the.historic significance and integrity
of the Petaluma Ice-and Cold Storage Co. building. The status of the `building will in turn
determine how proposed. changes to the structure are evaluated`for consistency with Petaluma
regulations and guidelines governing, historic properties, and for the consistency of proposed
changes with the California Environmental Quality Act.
B. Property Description and'Setting
The building occupies Assessor Parcel Number 007-132-033 in the northwest quadrant of the
intersection of Lakeville and:East D' Streets in East Petaluma. It is addressed as 405 East D
Street. It is a flat, 1.45-acre. site in an urban setting. The building extends -from the corner of
Lakeville and East D Streets in the southeast. corner to an adjacent commercial building at the
southwest corner of the building. The north half.of the site is an asphalt parking lot and storage
yard. In the northwest corner is a partially-open corrugated metal shed. It is dated ca. 1967 and
is 32,180 square feet in size. In the northeast corner is a small building with a residential
appearance.
C Project Description
The proposed project, asr shown on drawings dated June 10, 2007, involves making the fallowing
changes to the exterior of the building and the grounds (changes to the interior of the building are
riot discussed here). _
' Changes~to.;the exterior.ofthe structure on the north.fa~ade°will be made,
reflecting the conversion of the existing upper floor on the south side of the
building to rentable space. These changes include the following.
o A second entry tower will be added at about;the center of the building
that is similar to the first entry tower, but with.a flat roof.
o A spire wih be added to the easterly entry tower (note that~thi spire is
actually already in place; it was mounted in the tower in order to assess
how it looked prior to incorporating it into this design proposal).
o Abroad projecting gable will.be' added. on the west end of the north
fagade, similar in proportion to the gable end visible on the, east fagade.
o Existing metal roll-up doors on the north facade will be removed.
o Existing non-contributing windows will be removed.
z 'This is not the original building at-this location. It maybe the building that replaced the original between
191.5 and 1919, but`it has been substantially remodeled. It has a combination of T 1-11 and shingle siding,
and anodized aluminum-frame windows and vinyl windows. It is used foran office.
PAItiTER PRESERVATIOn~P1:AMtiICi~
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1 -Introduction
11
o New double doors with transoms will be added along the length of the
north facade.
o Five small gabled `dormers' will be added at the second level, each
with a double door and small transom. Note that these dormers are on
gable roof of the north side of the building, which is behind the flat-
roofextension. These dormers are not highly visible from the north
parking area, as they are out of the line-of--sight when standing close to
the building.
o Additional windows will be added along the length of the north facade
of similar design as the other `new' windows on the building.
o A balustrade will be added along the roof deck on the east side of the
north building facade (the parapet along the west side is high enough to
act as. a rail). This will be of a similar-design as the balustrade on the
front of the building at the entry.
o Materials and finishes utilized will be brick, corrugated metal, and
stucco.
PAII4TER PRESERVATIOIi ~PI~PiPQIYQ
3- 28
. HISTORIC RESOURCE REPORT
PETALUMA ICE' AND COLD STORAGE- CO.
2. HISTORIC CONTEXT
A The Burden Family and Olnmpali
The Petaluma Ice and Cold Storage'building is tied to the settlement of theregion through the
Burden family's association with, Rancho Olompali, Olompali State Historic Park today.2 The
Petaluma Ice and Cold Storage Co., constructed in 1897, is a major builtreminder of James B.
Burden 5r.'s legacy in Sonoma and"Mario Counties. The other major buildings associated with
Burden are the mansion at Olompali, an expansion of the original ranch house and adobe that was
undertaken by Burden in 14:11, and the developmez-t of the Novato Bank in 1913 s
1. Rancho Olompali' under Mexican rule4
Olompali was an important Miwok:village hundreds of years before Mexican rules It continued
in the possession of the Miwoks during the Mexican period through the ownership of Camilo
Ynitia, the son of Chief Olompali and;the first and only Native American to be granted a Mexican
Rancho 6 The Rancho, which consisted.of two square leagues (8,877 and 43/140s acres), was
granted to Camilo Ynitia by 1Vlauuel Michaeltorenato on October 22, 1'$43.' Ynitia's claim to the
Rancho was filed February 26, 1852 and the appeal finally dismissed January 31, 1857.
Camilo is credited with building the adobe on the properly that still .exists and is today part of the
mansion that was later renovated by James B. Burden Sr. IAn earlier adobe on the site (no longer
extant) is credited with being the first residence north of SanFrancisco Bay, .although there is
some debate about the year ofitsconstruction.8 This second:adobe, with an estimated,
construction date of 1837, now occupies the southeast corner of the. houses The following
description of this adobe was written by Munro-Fraser in :1880: '"The; econd house was much
larger, being twenty-four by fifty-six outside, and containing three:rooms; and from the fact of
it's
~ Rancho Olompali is also listed on the National Register of Historic Places as an archaeological site, listed
ni 1973.
3 A third buildng;:not'.liuilt by Burden however, is the Novato Bank-that he financed in 1913 and served as
the first president. It was bought by the Central Valley Bank in 1950 and was Novato's first City Hall after
if was incorporated in 1960.
4' The Rancho Olompah was,also significant in California history as the site of the-only casualty of the
Bear Flag Rebellion; a Mexican solder died there in 1846 in a skirmish. However, this event is not
discussed here as it`has no association with the building associated. with James B. Burden Sr. (Tuomey,
1926251).
s; Hildebrand, 2007:3.
6, Mason, 1975:112.
''~ Munro-Fraser, 1880:191.
s; It is-now generally considered to have been built the time of the Mission San Rafael Arcangel, although
earlier accounts (Munro-Fraser, Tuomey) credit it with being built in'1776 and it was listed as a California
Historical Landmark in 1932 based on this information (Hildebrand, 2007:3).
9 Hildebrand, 2007:4.
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well preserved condition.it is quite probable that it was constructed at a much more recent date
and, probably, by Camilo Ynitia himself."10
Camilo was a successful rancher, running 600 head of cattle as well as other stock. He also raised
wheat, which he sold to the Russians, and additionally traded with the Mexicans and early
American settlers. He sold three-quarters of the Olompali Ranch,to James. Black in 1852, prior to
the grant's ratification by the United States .Land Commission. The remainder of the Rancho -
1,480 acres - he kept for his own residence. He died under mysterious circumstances on his
ranch in 1856. u
2. James Black and Rancho Olompali
James Black, who was frotn;Scotland, was a pioneer in Maria County: He settled in Maria in
1834 at the request of General Mariano G. Vallejo, one of several settlers asked to assist in
staving offthe Russian threat by settling'in the Nor[hBay area. Black held.three ranchos in the
vicinity of Freestone, as well as a portion of the Rancho Nicasio. He also logged, ran cattle, and
engaged in real estate speculaton.12 He served as Coroner for Ivlarin County at one point, and
was elected County Assessor in 1852. This same year, on August 30,1852, he bought a portion
of the Olompali Rancho from Camilo Ynitia.
names .Black gave Rancho Olompali, along with 900 head of cattle, to his daughter Mary
Augustina Black as a wedding gift in honor of-her marriage to Galen Burdell in 1863.13 She
owned it from 1865 until her death -in 1900, at which time it was. inherited by'her husband Galen
Burdell and children James BTack`Burdell Sr. and Mabel Isabel Burdell.
3. Galen and 1VIary B1ackBurdell at Olompali
Galen Burdell, a dentist from San Francisco, marred Mary Black Burdell on October 6, 1863.
Burdell was born in Jefferson County New York in 1828: He studied under his uncles John and
Harvey Burdell in New York City and by the age of 19 was practicing dentistry. In 1849 Burdell,
who was visiting his uncle Dr. Lewis Burdell in Rio de Janeiro, obtained employment as a ship's
surgeon on a boat sailing$om thatport to San Francisco.l4 'The ship went aground off Bolinas in
August 1849, but Burdell nonetheless finally reached San `Francisco. There he set up a practice,
but ultimately made his money through the development and sale of a toothpowder. He first
ventured into the North Bay when he built a hotel at Olema in advance of the railroad reaching
that area 1 s
Burdell married IVlary Black Burdell, who was half his age, in 1'863.16 They moved permanently
too the Rancho in December 1866,. and about 1867 he gave up his. dental' practice to devote himself
10 Munro-Fraser, History of Maria County, California, including its geography, geology, topography, and
climatography, T880294. SubsequenYstudies of this adobe have taken place,and a Conditions Assessment
is currently underway, under the auspices of the California Departments of Parks and Recreation.
n Mason, 1975:112.
12 Mason, 1975:92.
13 Maria County Recorders Office, Book E, Page 413. This gift was recorded on September 13, 1865.
14 Ungemach, 1989:202:
is Mason, 1975:148.
16 Ungemach, 1989:107.
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to managing the Olompali estate." Their children, James B1aclt Burden Sr. and Mabel Isabel
(hater Mabel Coleman, Mabel,Smith and Mabel Lichtenberg) were born in 1869 and -1877
respectively.lg
James. Black's wife (and:Mary Augustine Black Burden's mother) died in T864 under anesthesia
as a patient of Galen Burden, which caused the two families to become estranged. Mrs. Galen
Burden re-located from her home in San Francisco to Merin County fo keep house for her father,
but that arrangement did not last, as she "invariably found him drunk." On January 16, 1866
Black remarried a neighbor and widow with six children named Maria Pacheco. Two months
after the marriage he changed his will; leaving his estate to the new Mrs: Black and her six
children. He expressly disinherited Dr. Wardell and his daughter, stating that his daughter was.
"amply taken care of ' as a result of. the .gift of the Olompali ranch.19 James Black died in 1870.20
The will of James Black was contested in one ofthe longest-lasting and most sensational trials'of
the time. Four years of litigation~ensued between Mary Black Burden (the daughter) and Mary
Pacheco Black (the second wife'of James Black)?' Three trials were held.in Maria County,
resulting in a hung jury. The fourth trial was held in San Francisco: The will was contested
based on Black's alcoholism and the scheming of his second wife.. Eventually the .courts ruled in
.favor of Mary Black Burdell. A decision was rendered on Apri12, 1'874 and the estate was
divided between the two women, with no provisions for Mrs. Black'ssix children.22 With the
additional property$om the court settlement, Mrs. Burden owned about 20,000 acres of land.2s
The Burdens began construction of a new ranch house at Olompali about the time they were
planning to relocate to the'ranch permanently„and soon after they took ownership of the ranch.
At that time, they apparentlymade repairs to the original adobe:.The adobe was fully encased
within a new wood-frame ranch:house and reputedly used as a livirig.room. In addition to the
ranch house, the Burdens built;a ,large barn and accompanying blacksmith shop and saltbox house
to the .north of the ranch house; a conservatory on the south side of the enclosed adobe; and a
two-story wood frame house southwest of the main house za
1'he Burdens made many additional improvements to the ranch overthe years. Galen Burden
began to reclaim the tidelands below'the home, to the east. They traveled widely and collected
exotic plant specimens from.Europe and Japan, many of which are still part of the gardens around
the house. The formal gardens; which were four acres in size, included a grotto of volcanic rock
with fountain surmounted by bronze~cranes and other formal site features-that are still extant.
Mrs. Burden also experimented with raising sillc.worms on the•estate, an activity that was popular
at the time.
Ungemach, 1989:203. The Rancho:had finally been bequeathed to Mary A Burden on September 13,
1865. Marie County Recorder's Office, Book E; Page 413.
18 US Census, 1880.
i9 Mason, 1975:94.
?° "Estate of James Black," 1880:24.
?' Mason, 1975:203.
z2 The three attorneysinvolved made $30,000 between them (Mason, 1975:94). Judge Southard of
Petaluma was Mary Black Burden's attorney.
ss Ungemach, 1'989.:203.
za Hildebrand, 2007:5, quoting McGuire, 1985:24.
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In October 1887 the Marin CountyTournal reported that-the Burdell ranches, including Mary
Burdell's holdings, included"seventeen dairies; ten orchards including apple, pear, quince, fig,
pomegranate, persimmon, apricot, peach, plum and other stone fruit trees; berries; and:many
acres of bearing vineyards .... In his own garden at Olompali, Dr. Burdell had an experimental
nurser and had succeeded in growing bananas, twenty varieties of oranges grid other kinds of
fruit:,' S
$urdell died at Olompali of-natural causes in 1906 at age 78. At the time he controlled acreage
that extended from the:Petaluma River to the coast and was noted,as one of the largest estates in
the state. It encompassed.Burd'ell Island, Burdell Station (along the train route), and what is
known today as Burdell Mountain.26 Burdell School also bore his name: He was known for his
purebred cattle, in addition to introducing many exotic and tropical-plant species on his estate.
4. Olompali under James Black Burdell Sr.
James Black Burdell Sr. was bornto Mary and Galen Burdell in San Francisco in 1869 and
attended school there. He married Marie Josephine (Josie) Sweetser of Novato on December 29,
1892, when he was 23 and she was 18.27 Josephine was the daughter of another early family in
Ivlarin. Her grandparents bought the Novato Rancho in partnership with Francis DeLong in
1856.28
Burdell, who was fisted in<the 1.910 census as a rancher, was active in the-local dairy industry and
served as the president of the California Dairymen's Association in Novato in the 1890s. In May
1894 he purchased the second plant of the California Creamery, located near the Novato Railroad
Depot, and after a short period began. making cheese. Soon afterwards the Petaluma newspapers
reported his interest in locating,a,milk skimming facility or creamery in.Petaluma. After
construction of the Petaluma Ice and Cold Storage building in Petaluma in 1897, Burdell and his
family lived adjacent to the plant. After his parents' deaths he, mowed to Olompali permanently
with his wife and' son, James, Jr., who`had been born in 1898.
In 1911 James and Josephine enlarged the.house at Olompali into a modern 26-room mansion.
This house, which also included the'original adobe in a front (east-facing) room and the older
ranch. house, was built by the contractor H. S. McCargar of:Petaluma, at a cost of $15,000 29 An
interior fireplace, second story veranda, and a formal colonnade facing the .garden to the east were
among the features of the new house. The original gable was replaced?by a flat roof, and the
house was refinished in stucco.30 A concrete shed was added to house a generator while the
house was being renovated. Olompali was said to be the first rural home in Marin County to have
electricity 31
zs Ungemach, 1989: 203.
25 There was also a Burde115chool District, formed in 1903.
2' Ungemach, 1989:205:
28 Ungemarch; 1989:205. Josephine Sweetser was also the sister of Fred Sweetser, a Supervisor In Marin
County in the 1920s and 1930s.
29 Hildebrand; 2007:5.
30 Exhibits, Olotnpali. State.Historic Park, 2007.
3i Exhibits, Olompali State Historic Park, 2007. Burdell also designed and constructed a water system in
1863, whereby water from a mountain spring was captured in a small reservoir.
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The architectural style ofthe ranch reflected amazingly progressive design influences from the
Modern Movement, as seen at thistime in.Europe and not common on the west coast of the
United States (much less rurallviarin County) until the 1920s and 193Os. It also embodied
contemporary (at that time) classical influences, incorporating these features in a way that is all
the more remarkable considering the constraints of building the house around two pre-existing
houses and in relationship to an existing;formal garden. This:house is still extant at Olompali.
Although in ruins today, the design features ofthe house are still visible. It appears as surprising
on the landscape today as it no doubt did in 1911.32
The business activities ofJames Burdell Sr. in Petaluma are discussed in more detail elsewhere in
this report. In summary, he-boughtthe Novato Creamery in 1 S94 and developed a milk
skimming plant in Petaluma about this same time. He bought the Petaluma Electric Light and
Power Company in 1895 ,and; moved it to the Petaluma Ice and Cold Storage building in 1897, the
same year he founded that,company and Western Refrigerating Company. He financed and
served as president of the first Novato bank in 1913. Additional activities included the following:
Mr. Burdell was a member of the Sons of the. American. Revolution, the .Society of California
Pioneers, a Mason of the Knight Templar Degree, a Shriner, a member of the Bohemian Club,
and charter member of the Petaluma Lodge BPOE.33 The Burdells had one child that lived to
adulthood, James B. Burdell Jr. James Burdell Sr. died on September 20, 1933 3a
5. Olompali in later years
Mrs. James Burdell sold the ranch to Mr. and Mrs. Court Harrington ofHonolulu in 1943, who
used it to raise purebred beef.3$ It was sold again in 1948 to the University-of San Francisco for a
Jesuit retreat. At this point the original ranch was 760 acres in size: In 1964 it sold to a 50-
member investment group from San Francisco for over $1 million. They operated it as the
Qlompali Swim Club. In 1966 the Grateful Dead rented the main buildings.. In 1967 it was
rented to Don McCoy, who used it as the Chosen Family Commune. The barns and other out-
buildings were leasedto.C-Bar=N Ranch, which operated ahorse riding stable there until 1981.
In 1969 the property was sold to Timothy W. O'Donogfiue, Jr:, who~lanned a development of
1;,000 to 1,500 homes on the site; a project that never went forward.3 In 1977 it became a
California State Historic Park, after many years of community effort.
The house partially burned on February 2, 1969, the result of an electrical fue.3~ It remains in
partial ruins today, but is intact enough o see the different stages of house construction and the
design features of the 1911 mansion.
13. Petaluma's Industrial Center
Y. The founding: of Petaluma
At the time that Burdell became interested in locating his businesses in.Petaluma, old-East
Petaluma was the industrial heart of the city: Much of the warehousing for agricultural goods
32 The house burned in 1964 and is now partially enclosed in a protective structure for safety and
preservation..
s Ungemach, 1989:205.
sa Ungemach, 1989:206.
ss Mrs. Burdell died in 1964.
36 Ungemach, 1989:.107.
37 Exhibits, Olompali State Historic Park, 2007.
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was focused on the west side of the Petaluma River, but East Petaluma was where goods were
manufactured and shipped via the railroad.
Petaluma got its start providing game to San Francisco, which was, expanding rapidly at that time
due to the. gold rush. Petaluma was the northernmost pointin the Bay Area accessible by ship,
and its river habitat provded:abundant game. This was Petaluma's main business until 1851,
when two parties established river services and eventually founded a general store, trading post,
warehouse and hotel in the small town.38
East Petaluma did not develop~as rapidly as west Petaluma, but it was included in the city limits
at its incorporation in 1858 and was'important from the start by virtuepf being the location of the
train depot and the site of critical raiUship connections. Grains, poultry and dairy were the main
agricultural products in these early years. James Burdell took advantage of this fact with his
siting of the Petaluma Ice and Co1d,Storage Co. and Western- Refrigerating Co. across from the
Petaluma Depot on Hopper (now Lakeville) Street.
2. The development of East.;Petaluma
The San Francisco and North Pacific Railroad came to Petaluma in 1870. The fu-st depot,
constructed in 1871, was.across the street from the future Petaluma.Ice and Cold Storage Co.
This station was in the heart of East Petaluma, with spur tracks serving the industries that
developed on the east side: The station augmented river shipping and supported Petaluma's
activities as the most: important~,port in Sonoma County. This fact and abundant vacant land in
East Petaluma made this a natural location for industry-and manufacturing. But it evolved slowly
in the first few years:
Despite its earlyplatting:(I857)~and improvements (particularly the bridge over Petaluma Creek
at Washington),. development was-relatively sparse in East Petaluma into.the 1870s. Most of the
Businesses, including the McNear warehouses, were clustered around. the Petaluma River's
turning basin or upriver fromthe turning basin. The San Francisco:and North Pacific Railroad
Depot was in place five blocks east of the turningbasin, but the businesses were oriented towards
the river rather than the railroad 39 ~ ,
By the 18$Os, however, business had grown. Numerous warehouses; shops such as carriage
shops, carpenter shops, and Chinese laundries, and businesses like planing mills, lumber yards
and liveries were located east of the. river and down East Washington Street. Many, including the
nnassive Golden Eagle Mill, were served liy railroad spurs from the main rail depot a° A few
li.ouses were° ocated in the;two-block area between Copeland.and Wilson, immediately east of the
river.a~ By the end of.'the decade a small commercial and residential area had' established itself in
East Petaluma around the- depot.
In the 1890s East Petaluma was thriving as the city's major industrial: center. Businesses included
the Petaluma Fruit Drying Co. andDstillery on Copeland Street; California Woolen Mills on the
southwest corner of Hopper. and Jefferson; the Carlson Currier Silk IVIi l on a northeast corner
of Hopper and Jefferson; Golden Eagle Milling Co. on East Washington; the Petaluma Planing
3°° Stillinger, 1983:3.
3v "Bird's Eye View of the City of Petaluma, Sonoma County, California," 1871.
a° Sanborn Fire Insurance maps, 1883, 1884 and 1885.
ai Sanborn Fire Insurance map, 1884.
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2 -Historic Context 18
Mill across the street to the north; and E. Hedges Lumber Yard at.East Washington and Weller, in
addition to numerous warehouses, mostly belonging to George McNear.az
In 1895 sidewalks were called for along Hopper Street between East Washington and East D
Street. The reported impetus was an incident in which a.young girl who worked at the Silk. Mill
was killed by walking on the•ralroad tracks,. as a sidewalk was not availahle.43 In February bids
went out to improve. Hopper'Street'from Jefferson Street:to East Washington with new grading,
an asphalt street; and sidewalks, curbs and gutters. At the same time the railway company was
repairing its tracks and fixing up its yards.
In the first decade of the twentieth century businesses expanded in East Petaluma. Three tanning
companies and one shoe/saddle manufacturing companyaocatedthere, as well as a winery and the
silk mill as Business uses lined East Washington Street,up to Copeland Street, and residential
development was solid -if not dense between Bremen and Hopper to the sihc mill next to Jefferson.
McKinley School, constructed in 1911, was located on East Washington and Vallejo Streets. The
'area was also served bythe Petaluma Street Railway, a horsecar line that went as far north as
Kenilworth Park race track,. in addition to the new main rail depot a6 Ea. st Petaluma was afull-
fledged community, with a'school, businesses, residential neighborhoods, the central rail depot,
'and a street railway.
!C. James Burdell Sn's Businesses
'The businesses at 405 East D Street were known as the Petaluma Ice and Cold Storage Co. and
`Western Refigerating:Co. in the first part of the twentieth century and throughout James
!Burden's ownership. The Petaluma Electric Light and Power Co. also operated from this site
j(until about 1907), once the new structure was built tq house it. The following is an account of
';the businesses that-Burdell operated from the Petaluma Ice and Cold Storage building and later
businesses at 405 East D Street.
1. The Burdell Creamery
Tancs began about the possibility of a creamery in Petaluma as early as 1894.. An article in the
;Petaluma Daily Courier on September 19, 1894 announced that "a number of. dairymen of this
,section have come to the conclusion that Petaluma is a first class location in which to operate a
creamery, and Mr. Vogelsen who:formerly managed the Burdell creamery at Novato is
prominently interested in the matter: 'a~ At this time Burdell` was president of the California
Dairymen Association of Novato.
Dairy products continued to rise in value at this time; while some other products in the region
were declining and the economy as a whole was suffering: from:anation-wide depression.
Improved machinery and science behind the production of milk, butter, and cheese products were
ai Sanborn Fire Insurance map, 1894.
as Petaluma Daily Courier, January 4, 1895:1.
as Petaluma Ddily Courier, March 26, 1895.
as This building was renovated byBrainerd Jones in 1922 and is on the National Register of Historic
Places today.
i a6 Heig, 1982:90.
~', a7 Petaluma Daily Courier, September 19, 1894:1.
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2 -Historic Context 19
in part responsible forthe health of this industry.48 An on-going issue, however, was the need for
improved methods for packing and storing butter.
!Another problem was the middle. man. A centralized facility for storing milk would allow
;farmers greater control in fixing their own prces:49 Cold torage for eggs was also an issue with
;poultry farmers, due to seasonal: fluctuations in egg production. A cold".storage plant would allow
Vocal producers to store eggs during the highest production period; in the spring, and sell them in
;late summer. The Petaluma Poultry Keepers procured the services of A. L. Whitney & Co. of
!San Francisco to give them adv-ice on the costs associated with developing a cold storage plant.
'Despite the challenge of building such a plant, it •was reported that "all' were in favor of the
;proposition, and a cold storage warehouse will no doubt be a reality in`this city before many
(days."so
The newspaper announced that Burdell was planning on building a milk skimming station and
;possibly an entire creamery in the city; `should he not meet with competition, appearances
!indicate that a creamery is a pretty sure thing.' By January of the following year Burdell had
(established a skimming station atthe°rear of the Oriental Mill, a facilityowned by George
~McNear across from Hill Plaza Park (Penry Park today) on north Main. Street. It processed about
(1,000 pounds of milk a day, allowing farmers who kept only a few cows to make use of this
(centralized facility.sl This business later became part ofWestern Refrigerating Co. within the
Petaluma Ice and Cold'Storage Co. building..
2. Petaluma Electrica(ight and:Power Co.
The Petaluma Electric Light and Power Co. was under James Burdell's;ownership for only a short
ttime -from 1895 to about 1907 -but it'was a significant period'in Petaluma's development and
iinnovative in the way it was combined,with the cold storage plant;. Its presence in East Petaluma
iat this time helped attract industry and manufacturing and the improved .power source allowed
;existing industry to expand. It 'is therefore discussed here as an important' aspect. of the
development ofthe Petaluma'Ice and Cold Storage business and plant, as well as the city.
!a. Petaluma Gas Light Co..
~Petaluma's gas works, its first.organized source of power, was established byPeter Donohue in
;1863. Land was deeded by Donohue on "the west side of the river in1865s~ He deeded the gas
,equipment to the gas company in 1'877. By 1894 the business was noted as the Petaluma Gas
!Light Co., still adjacent to D Street on the west side of the rivers3
Petaluma had had electric street fights since 1886. That<year=the Pacific Coast Electrical
Construction `Co. placed a bid' to supply electricity for the streets in west Petaluma, but they lost
'to the local Petaluma Gas -Light Co. The latter, led by I. G. Wickersham, contracted with the city
ao erect 40 poles and lights on the west side where municipal-mains already existed, as well as
!construct mains on D Street, Hopper, and East Washington in EastPetaluma. They were also to
ssupply electricity to the new system.
48 Petaluma Daily"Courier, January 5, 1895:1.
a9 Petaluma Daily Courier, January 4, 1895.
so petaluma Daily Courier; .January 8, 1896.
~s' Petaluma Daily Courier; January 4, 1895:1.
sz Lot 4, Block A; betweemthe east side of Main Street and the river, according to the Abstract of Title.
ss 'This was confirmed in the 1884-85 city directory.
PAIf'YI'ER PRESERVATIOtii~PldtlYf'IIIYU
3-3~
Petaluma Ice and,Cold Storage Co.
]3istoric Resource Report
7. -Historic Context 20
b. Petaluma Electric Light and Power Co.
On December 27, 1889 the company incorporated as the Petaluma Electric Light and Power Co.
with invested capital of $20,000 and five people°on'its Board of Trustees. It contracted with the
city to famish light standards and fixtures, as well as the electricity for electric street lights in the
downtown and East Petaluma and fo"ur coal of l lights for the two drawbridges. They were also
charged with maintaining the plant. The lights were to be on from. a half hour after dusk to
midnight, except on;nights where there was a full moon and no clouds. The coal oil lights were
to be turned on by the policeman on duty and turned off by him. "when he went to bed." At that
time George C. Codding was president of the company and William S. Pierce was the Secretarysa
Other board members were Daniel H. Taylor and James H. Beggs of. San Francisco, and C. P.
Codding of Petaluma.
The company expanded"and improved its facilities over time... By 1891 it supplied power and
light to three-quarters of Petaluma's businesses and public buildings.ss By the end of 1892 it had
$39,154 in assets s6 It issued mortgage bonds valued at $15,000 to raise money to purchase new
boilers, a building to house them, new incandescent light dynamos, and a new engine.
rn April 1895 the citizens of-Petaluma voted for municipal ownership of the Light and Power Co.
Appazently nothing happened.as a result of that vote and by September.the power company had
'such serious financial problems that George McNeaz stepped in and paid off the creditors and
original stockholders. 'The company was sold for $20,000 to James Burden. On December 14,
1895 Galen Burden, James B. Wardell, Mrs. Mary Burden, Jason B..Burdell, and Lyman Green
;were elected to the board: and took over the positions previously held by George Codding and his
'colleagues. George Ortcnan was made manager.
'c. The Petaluma Gas & Electric Co.
~In January of 1897, as James Burden "was planning his new building, it was announced that a
'meeting of the stockholders-of Petaluma Electrical Light and Power Co. would be held "in a few
`days" when "business of importance would be discussed." A proposal from Western
Refrigerating Co. to purchase the electric light-plant and related franchises, contracts, etc., was to
be entertained. The Gas Light Co. was`thereafter to be called the Petaluma Gas & Electric Cos'
~It was to be housed in a new building along with the Fetaluma.Ice~and Cold Storage and Western
Refrigerating companies. This was to be a tremendous advantageous to'the city in attracting new
;businesses to East Petaluma.
Reseazch did notreveal the exact sequence of events in the transition-from Burden's ownership of
the power company. In the 1905 .directories Petaluma Gas & Electric Co. was located at 840.
Main, with H. Weber as`the superintendent, and Petaluma Power & Water co. was located at 516
Washington, with F. W. Heseker as the superintendent.
'On March 4, 1907 a.petition, signed by nearly 100 businessmen and business owners in the city,
'was presented by the Secretary of the Chamber of Commerce to the City. It stated that: "the
expense of lighting the City of Petaluma both public and private, for both electric and gas light, is
~sa "Documents Concerning Electricity in Petaluma, 1886-1910:'
ass The Resources of California; 1891:7.
s6 "Documents Concerning Electricity in Petaluma, 1886-1910."
s' "Documents Concerning Electricity in Petaluma, 1886-1910:'
PAlt3TER PAE3SRVATIOI~{c~PI~AIiCiINO
3-31'
Petaluma Ice and Co1d.Storage Co.
,Historic Resource Report
2 -Historic Context 21
.excessive, we the undersigned residents and householders of the said City, hereby petition your
'Hon. Board to investigate said matter and after ,proceedings held according to law in such matters.
in cities of this class, fix a rate with the Electric Light & Gas Company may charge.."ss
An article in The Petaluma Argus on June 11, 1907 announced that a new steam plant was being
~ built in order to continue to supply cheap power and-.light to Petaluma, which was particularly
jvaluable to local industry. By 1910 anew substation, the Pacific Gas and Electric Building, was
~, located at D Street and by 1912 new substation called "The Great Western Power Company" was
located on Hopper Street. These utilities featured heavily in the Chamber of Commerce' 1916
Epublication: "Petaluma is well lighted by electric lamps placed advantageously throughout the
City. Light,. powerrand gas in unlimited>_guantities and at very reasonable rates are supplied by
'the Pacif c Gas & Electric and the Great Westem Power Companies."s9
~3. Petaluma Ice and Cold ..Storage Co. and Western Refrigerating Co.
iA piece on the Petaluma Ice and Cold Storage company and building was published in a chapter
~ on "Sonoma County Homes and Industries" in the Proctor & Reynolds atlas published in 1897.
;Entitled "Petaluma's Pride, Blectric Light, Electric Power, Ice Plant, Cold Storage and Creamery
j Under one Combine," it made the following observation about the electrical power plant:
Great enterprises that come without cost or solicitation to g community are seldom
properly appreciated. When the inhabitants 'of a town or city have to heavily assess
themselves to secure any coveted amanufacturing-enterprise, it touches a nerve very
sensitive to a realization of the cost and worth .of such in a business line ...This has
been pointedly exemplified in Petaluma in connection with the electric light, power, ice,
cold storage. and creamery plants that came to it as a free offering from the Burdell
family, whose extensive land holdings are in Marin County.60
j The next major piece on the companies was published in,the Development Edition of The
~ Petaluma Argus in 1915 st This article stated that the plant represented "the last word in modern
I creamery equipment and sanitary manufacturing processes" and that it was "the first cold storage
plant to store Petaluma Eggs, and the Creamery was the first one established in the State of
I California." In general the article had high praise for the business and the benefits it conferred on
',the primary local industries and economy:
" ... it is appropriate to give a prominent position to an industrial enterprise that has
been, and'is, an important factor in the promotion and development of not one, but both
of these major industries [e.g. the poultry and dairying and creamery industryJ. We refer
to the' Western Refrigerating Company whose modernly equipped Creamery plant and
wholesale Egg Shipping depotis at East D and Hopper Streets. "
When operating, at capacity the plant could turn out 20,000 pounds of butter daily. The operation
also purchased "hundreds ofcar-loads" of eggs from local poultrymen and local retail merchants
and shipped them.from their warehouse. ]n 1913 the:officers of the company were James B.
Burdell, President, and J. F. Early, Secretary and Manager.62
58 "Documents Gonceining Electricity in Petaluma, 1886-1910."
59 Petaluma Sonoma County California, The Largest Poultry Center in the World, 1916:8.
6o Proctor & Reynolds, 1':897:34.
6i The Petaluma Argus, 1915.
6z The Petaluma Argus, 1915.
PAIIiTER PRESERVATIOri ~PI.ANII'iII'iQ 3 . ~ 8
Petaluma Ice and Cold Storage Co.
] Iistoric Resource Report
2 -Historic Context
22
4. Later businesses
In 1917 Western Refrigerating Co: was sold to Fred L. Idi mer, "a well. known commission man,"
of San Francisco. At that~time•an egg depot on Keller Street and branch store on Western Avenue
was also part of the operation. It was.announced that on;Hilmer's purchase the horses and
wagons were to be replaced by automobiles. Atthat time the plant employed 25 people, with an
additional five employees in.the office. It was announced that'Hihner would continue to
manufacture Burdell butter, which.was well known for its:quality.63' In the 19SOs it began
operations as Western Dairy Products, Inc. The 14rgus Courier Centennial Edition reported that
in 1955 it was producing 225;000 pounds of milk a day and received. two million pounds of
butterfat a year ~ It operated afthis site through the early 1980s.
Petaluma Ice and Cold Storage~became National Ice and Cold Storage :Company in the 1930s. It
was described in the 1955 Centennial Edition of the Argos Courier.as'"` ... a cold storage
warehouse and ice manufacturing plant with ari ice delivery system ....and the only local distilled
water delivery ...." In other words, itscontinued the„ same.functions as Petaluma Ice and Cold
Storage. As the demand for eggs grew, the company purchased`the former holdings of the
Lachman and Jacobi Winery and expanded its operation to 325 E. Washington Street 6s
I
The poultry industry in Petalumasaw a decline in the depression years; but in 1940 Petaluma
shipped out 30 million dozen eggs,,due in part. to military demand "during the war.66 In 1939 there
were eight feed and graindealers in Petaluma and two in Penngrove. Two years ater Sonoma
hens produced a third of all eggs in California.b~ Egg and poultry production continued to be a
mainstay of the community in the first half of the twentieth century,. reinforcing the demand for
cold storage. Thereafter`the •poultry industry was dominated by other areas of the country,
notably southern California and the southeast.
In 1983 Peterson's Panel Saws was located at 417 D Street and the Homestead Bakery, operated
by Arthur and Dorothy Pedrini, was located at 419 D Street. The building was purchased by
Creedence Construction about 2000, and rehabilitation began shortly thereafter.
A. The Petaluma Ice and Cold Storage Building
1. Building.construction
In spring of 1896 BurdelT was~accepting bids from engineering companies"based on plans and.
specifications for the cold storage and electrical plant, which,at that time was to comprise
inultiple buildings.68 Bids were opened for the building, called the Petaluma. Electric Light,
:Power and Cold'$torage:Company .in mid-December of 1896. J. C. Duncan of.Santa Rosa
received the. contract for the •brick work and G: Schluneggar of Petaluma .received. the contract for
the concrete work 69 Two days 'after bids were opened it was announced that the design of the
plant would be altered from a group of individual buildings to orie large building.70 The building
Petaluma Daily Courier, May 1, 1917:1.
Petaluma-Argos Courier, August 18, 1955, Section I, p. 6.
Rinehard, 2005:62.
Wilson, 1999, 59.
Heig, 1982:120.
Petaluma DailyCourier; April 10,1896:1.
Petaluma Daily Courier, December'17, 1896.
Petaluma Daily Courier; °December 18, 1896:1.
PAINTER PRESERVATI014~P4AM'IIPiQ
3-39
Petaluma Ice and Cold Storage Co.
Historic Resource Report
2 -Historic Context
23
'was changed from 127 feet.to 298' feet, "probably the longest continuous front of any building in
I Sonoma county."~~
i
'in spite of the fact that it-was to be an industrial enterprise,-the. newspapers reported that the
(building would be attractive: "Itis highly ornamental, and will be a most valuable acquisition to
;the vicinity of the depot, where strangers first view the city." On pecember 19, 1896 bids were
awarded to Hurd & Dies, among half a dozen bidders,'for the galvanized iron roof, cornices and
iron fittings for the building. It was estimated that the building would require twenty tons of iron
to fill the specifications.'Z
~By December 1896 ground was broken for the foundation of the new buildings by C.
Schlunnegar.73 Because heavy boilers,. engines, dynamos and other heavy equipment would
occupy the building, designand construction of foundations was. critical. Burdell and George
Ortman acted as general. contractors for the work. Itwas announced that W. R Moller "will do
the remainder of the work" after the concrete was poured. It was reported that "while built with a
view as to substantiability [sic), will also be quite attractive." Therailroad was building the spur
track at the same time to serve the building directly. It was believed that`the concrete foundation,
masonry construction, and-iron roof and other measures would make the building fireproof.
~t was announced that completing this work early would allow the building materials themselves
to arrive by rail. An additional purpose of the spur track was to shield perishable goods so that
they would not be handled in the sun. The train would also stop at the boiler room so the fuel for
the boilers could be unloaded directly from the cars .into the furnace.
In May of 1897 the new°plant was visited by A. L. Bryan and J: Cline, who were seeking to build
a new shoe factory in Petaluma across from the Silk Mill. John A. McNear, P. Sweed and Fred
A. Wickersham were trying to attract the shoe factory from Oakland with the prospect of
affordable power from the new plant. In selling the project to the people of Petaluma, Prof. E. S.
Lippitt called the new Burdell ,Plan "the finest in the world of its kind."
~. The Building in 1897
The following description of the Petaluma Ice and Cold Storage building was presented with
extensive photo documentation in the 1897 Reynolds & Proctor atlas, in the chapter on "Sonoma
County Homes and Industry." The~article was entitled "Petaluma's Pride. Electric Light, Electric
Power, Ice Plant, Cold Storage and Creamery Under one Combine."
Thee power plant:itself was 300' by°60', of brick masonry construction with a concrete foundation.
I$ had a corrugated metal roof with;metal ventilators. The railroad spur that ran parallel to the
building for its entire length delivered fuel to the power plant engine room and picked up and
distributed freight-from the cold storage; ice, and creamery departments.
Engine and Boiler Rooms.. To the north of the main building was a 40' by 70' boiler room, with
two 125 horse-power boilers, connected by x.40' stack.74 The engine room was 60' by 80' and
housed two Corliss compound condensing steam engines, each with 14' fly wheels. The second
~i Petaluma Daily Laurier, December 1$, .1896:1.
72 Petaluma Daily Courier, December 19, .1896:1.
~s, Petaluma Daily-Courier,. December 10, 1896:1.
74 This stack was destroyed in the 1906 earthquake.
PAII~ITER PRESERVATIOn ~P! 0.ti1^III'iQ ~ ~ O