HomeMy WebLinkAbout1996-01-16 City Council (23)City of Palo Alto
City Manager’s Summary Report
TO:HONORABLE CITY COUNCIL
FROM:CITY MANAGER DEPARTMENT: Planning and
Community Environment
AGENDA DATE: January 16, 1996 CMR:114:96
SUBJECT:National Register of Historic Places Application for the Former
University African Methodist Episcopal (AME) Zion Church
Building Located at 819 Ramona Street, Palo Alto, CA (Category
3 Historic Structure)
REQUEST
This report addresses a nomination application which has be~.n made by a private citizen
(Ruth Ann Gray) to place the former A_ME Zion Church on the National Register of Historic
Places. The nomination application will be reviewed by the State Historical Resources
Commission on February 2, 1996. The State Commission provides a public comment period
for the property owner, local agencies and other interested parties prior to making its
recommendation to the State Historic Preservation Officer (SHPO).
If the Commission recommends to the SHPO that the nomination be approved, the
application will be forwarded on to the National Park Service for final action and inclusion
on the National Register of Historic Places. If the State Commission recommends that the
nomination application be disapproved, the application will either not be forwarded to the
National Park Service at all or will be forwarded for an eligibility determination only. The
Church would not be officially placed on the National Register.
This report summarizes staff concerns and proposed recommendations regarding the
nomination application as well as the Palo Alto Historic Resources Board recommendation
on the application.
RECOMMENDATIONS
Staff recommends that the City Council recommend to the State Historical Resources
Commission and the SHPO that the nomination be disapproved and not forwarded on to the
National Park Service for further consideration and action.
CMR:114:96 Page 1 ofl0
The Historic Resources Board recommends that the City Council recommend that the
nomination application be approved and forwarded to the National Park Service for final
action and inclusion on the National Register.
POLICY IMPLICATIONS
There are three existing City policies relevant to this application. Two of these policies are
found in the approved Specific Plan for the Palo Alto Medical Foundation (PAMF). The
former AME Zion Church is part of the West Block of the PA_M!: Campus as defined in the
Specific Plan. Policy number 2 in the Land Use Element of the Specific Plan states: "The
entire west block will be developed for Palo Alto Medical Foundation uses". The policy text
further states that the west block will be redeveloped for uses which may include research
and medical care as well as administration and storage. Although this policy does not
specifically state that all existing buildings would be removed as a result of redevelopment
of the west block, it acknowledges that buildings and uses may change as a result of the
evolving needs of the Foundation.
Policy 20 of the Land Use Element of the PAMF Specific Plan states: "The former AME
Zion Church structure should be used or relocated if feasible. If it is not feasible to use or
relocate this structure, then the Foundation will retain the ficus tree which is now located
next to the Church structure; place a plaque on the former Church site commemorating the
history and cultural contribution of the church; underwrite a documentation of the church’s
history at this site and display this documentation in the Foundation facilities". This policy
specifically acknowledges that it may not be practical for the Foundation to reuse or relocate
the former AME Zion Church building and that the alternative would be to commemorate
the Church’s contribution to the histou’ and culture of the area.
Recommending approval of the nomination of the former Church for the National Register
would not be consistent with the existing policies in the approved PAMY Specific Plan. The
existing policies sanction the redevelopment of the west block of the campus and
acknowledge that reuse and!or relocation of the former AME Zion Church may not be
feasible.
The third policy that is relevant to the nomination application is in Chapter 6, Urban Design,
of the Comprehensive Plan. Policy number 2 states: "Encourage private preservation of
buildings which have historic or architectural merit or both". Listing the former AME Zion
Church on the National Register is not necessarily an incentive for the private preservation
of an historic resource. Inclusion on the National Register is an action taken by a public
agency, in order to identify buildings or districts worthy of preservation. Inclusion on the
Register does not mean that a property owner will automatically receive tax credits or
deductions or other possible benefits. In fact, inclusion on the Register may make it more
CMR:114:96 Page 2 of l0
difficult to modify or relocate an historic structure, even if it is necessary to do one or both
of these things to make retention of the historic structure feasible.
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
Former AME Zion Church Building Nomination:
The former AME Zion Church application to the National Register was made by a private
citizen. The applicant states that the building is historically significant, because it was the
first African American church built in Palo Alto and in the Mid-Peninsula region between
the cities of San Mateo and San Jose. The structure was built in 1925 and served as a
religious, social, and community focal point from 1925 through 1965. The applicant further
states that the building symbolizes the multi-cultural cooperation and unity and the positive
racial and ethnic harmony and good will of Palo Alto. The history of the African Methodist
Episcopal Zion Church is outlined from its founding in 1796 to its current practice in Palo
Alto in a facility on Middlefield Road, which it has occupied since the former AME Zion
Church building was sold in 1965. The physical characteristics of the building are detailed
as well as the socia! and historical importance. The applicant concludes by stating that
although restoration of the building would be costly, it would be of tremendous benefit and
historic value to the community.
Inconsistency with the PAMF Specific Plan:
The Specific Plan encourages the reuse and possible relocation of the building because of its
historic importance, but does not require those actions, and provides alternative measures if
reuse and relocation are found to be infeasible.
Although the Medical Foundation is in the process of exploring the feasibility of moving to
a new location, completely outside the area defined as the "Campus" in the PAMF Specific
Plan, the Plan is an approved document. Recommending approval of an action by another
public agency which would be inconsistent with the policies approved in the Specific Plan
would give conflicting direction to the property owner as well as the residents in the area.
A more appropriate time to reconsider how to approach the possible preservation of the
former AME Zion Church and its contribution to the culture and history of the area would
be after PAMF vacates the area and during the time when a new plan is developed for the
area’s reuse. If,. during that effort, the City finds that inclusion on the National Register
could contribute to the preservation of the former church, another nomination application
could be submitted to the State.
CMR:114:96 Page 3 of 10
Cit3’ of Palo Alto Historic Resources Board Review:
The Palo Alto HRB reviewed the nomination application on December 20, 1995. They stated
that the area surrounding the former Church is in a state of flux right nov,,, but that they want
to send the message that the Church is an important building and should be preserved. The
Board believes that this is an important issue for historic preservation in general. As the City.’
becomes more homogenized, it is important to save elements that reflect the past. The Board
voted unanimously to support the nomination application.
FISCAL IMPACT
There is no fiscal impact on the City of Palo Alto as a result of any of the possible actions
regarding the nomination or placement of the former AME Zion Church on the National
Register of Historic Places.
ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT
City Council review of and recommendation on the nomination application is not a project
subject to environmental review under the California Environmental Quality Act (Section
21065).
PREPARED BY: Lisa Grote, Zoning Administrator
DEPARTMENT HEAD REVIEW:
// , j9 / ,. .-,s-"
~)’/d ~: "/ /:":"
KENNETH R. SCHREIBER
Director of Planning and
Community Environment
CITY MANAGER APPROVAL:
City.’ Manager
CMR:114:96 Page 4 of 10
City of Palo Alto
C ty Manager’s Report
SUBJECT:National Register of Historic Places Application for the Former
University African Methodist Episcopal (AME) Zion Church Building
Located at 819 Ramona Street, Palo Alto, CA (Category 3 Historic
Structure)
RECOMMENDATIONS
Staffrecommends that the City Council recommend to the State Historic Preservation Officer
and the State Historic Resources Commission that the nomination of the former AME Zion
Church to the National Register of Historic Places be disapproved and not be forwarded on
to the National Park Service for further consideration and action (see Attachment 1 - Draft
Letter to Cherilyn Widell, dated January 18, 1996).
The Historic Resources Board recommends that the City Council recommend to the State
Historic Preservation Officer and the State Historic Resources Commission that the
nomination of the former AME Zion Church to the National Register of Historic Places be
approved and forwarded on to the National Park Service for final action and inclusion on the
National Register.
BACKGROUND
National Register of Historic Places:
The National Register of Historic Places is the Federal Government’s official list of historic
buildings and other cultural resources worthy of preservation. The National Register was
established by the national Historic Preservation Act of 1966 and is intended to encourage
historic preservation efforts by state and local governments and the private sector. The
National Register is administered by the National Park Service under the Secretary, of the
Interior. State nominations to the National Register are submitted to the National Park
Service by the State Historic Preservation Officer (SHPO). Nomination applications are
usually prepared by local citizens or agencies or staff of the SHPO. Prior to being submitted
to the National Park Service, the application is reviewed by the State Historical Resources
Commission. The State Commission recommends either approval or disapproval of a
nomination application to the SHPO. Ifa nomination is approved by the SHPO, it will then
be submitted to the National Park Service for final review and action. If the nomination is
approved by the National Park Service, the property is officially entered in the National .
Register. Ifa nomination is not approved by the SHPO, it will be forwarded to the National
CMR:114:96 Page 5 of 10
Park Service only for a determination about whether the property is eligible for listing. It
will not, however, be entered onto the National Register.
It should be noted that the SHPO does not usually recommend approval of a nomination if
the property owner objects to the nomination. In cases where the property is not be listed on
the Register because the owner objected to the listing, the National Park Service can find that
the property is eligible for listing even though it is not officially listed. In cases where a
property is eligible, but not officially listed, federal agencies are required to allow the
Advisory Council on Historic Preservation an opportunity to comment on a project before
the agency can fund, license, or assist the project impacting the site.
When the State Historic Resources Commission, the SHPO or the National Park Service
reviews a nomination, specific criteria are used to evaluate the application. The criteria
include: that the quality of significance in American history, architecture, archeologg~,
engineering and culture is present in districts, sites, buildings, structures, and objects that
possess integrity of location, design, setting, materials, workmanship, feeling, and association
and: a) that are associated with events that have made a significant contribution o the broad
patterns of our history; or b) that are associated with the lives of persons significant in our
past; or c) that embody the distinctive characteristics of a type, period, or method of
construction, or that represent the work of a master, or that posses high artistic values or that
represent a significant and distinguishable entity whose components may lack individual
distinction; or d) that have yielded or may be likely tied to information important in
prehistoD~ or history.
Properties or buildings owned by religious institutions or used for religious purposes are not
usually considered eligible for the National Register unless they derive their primau
significance from architectural or artistic distinction or historical importance.
The State Office of Historic Preservation publishes a list of benefits and restrictions that are
associated with National Register listing (see Attachment 2 - National Register Fact Sheet).
Some of the benefits include: the ability to use the State Historic Building Code rather than
the Uniform Building Code; federal tax deductions for preservation easements that result in
a decline of fair market value when conservation restrictions are placed on the property by
the owner; and Mills Act contract eligibility. Some of the restrictions include: proposals to
demolish or significantly alter a National Register property damaged in an earthquake or
other natural disaster may be subject to review by the State Office of Historic Preservation;
a local agency may tie listing in the National Register to restrictions imposed locally, such
as design review; and if a project is subject to the California Environmental Quality Act
(CEQA), the project’s impact on a property listed in the National Register would need to be
evaluated. These benefits and restrictions are more fully presented in Attachment 2.
CMR:114:96 Page 6 of 10
Former AME Zion Church Nomination:
The former AME Zion Church application to the National Register was made by a private
citizen (see Attachment 3 - National Register of Historic Places Registration Form and
accompanying information). The applicant states that the Church is historically significant
because it was the first African American church built in Palo Alto and in the mid-peninsula
region between the cities of San Mateo and San Jose. The structure was built in 1925 and
served as a religious, social, and community focal point from 1925 through 1965. The
applicant further states that the building symbolizes the multi-cultural cooperation and unity
and the positive racial and ethnic harmony and good will of Palo Alto. The history of the
African Methodist Episcopal Zion Church is outlined from its founding in 1796 to its current
practice in Palo Alto in a facility on Middlefield Road, which it has occupied since the
former AME Zion Church building was sold in 1965. The physical characteristics of the
building are detailed as well as the social and historical importance. The applicant concludes
by stating that although restoration of the building would be costly, it would be of
tremendous benefit and historic value to the community.
City of Palo Alto Historic Resources Board Review:
The Palo Alto HRB reviewed the nomination application on December 20, 1995. They
stated that the area surrounding the Church is in a state of flux right now, but that they want
to send the message that the former Church is an important building and should be preserved.
The Board believes that this is an important issue for historic preservation in general. As the
City becomes more homogenized, it is important to save elements that reflect the past. The
Board voted unanimously to support the nomination application.
POLICY IMPLICATIONS
There are three existing City policies that are relevant to this application. Two of these
policies are found in the approved Specific Plan for the Palo Alto Medical Foundation
(PAMF). The Development Agreement between the Medical Foundation and the City
entitles the Foundation to develop the area discussed in the Specific Plan according to the
goals and policies outlined in the Plan. The former AME Zion Church is part of the West
Block of the PAMF Campus as defined in the Specific Plan (see Attachment 4, Map of
PAMF Study Area). Policy number 2 in the Land Use Element of the Specific Plan states:
"The entire west block will be developed for Palo Alto Medical Foundation uses." The
policy text further states that the west block will be redeveloped for uses which may include
research and medical care as well as administration and storage. Although this policy does
not specifically state that all existing buildings would be removed as a result of
redevelopment of the west block, it acknowledges that buildings and uses may change as a
result of the evolving needs of the Foundation.
CMR:114:96 Page 7 of 10
Policy 20 of the Land Use Element of the P.AzM2" Specific Plan states: "The former AME
Zion Church structure should be used or relocated if feasible. If it is not feasible to use or
relocate this structure, then the Foundation will retain the Ficus tree which is now located
next to the Church structure; place a plaque on the former Church site commemorating the
histo~r and cultural contribution of the church; underwrite a documentation of the church’s
history at this site and display this documentation in the Foundation facilities." This policy
specifically ac ~knowledges that it may not be practical for the Foundation to reuse or relocate
the former AME Zion Church and that the alternative would be to commemorate the church’s
contribution to the history and culture of the area.
Recommending approval of the nomination of the former Church building for the National
Register would not be consistent with the existing policies in the approved PAMF Specific
Plan. The existing policies sanction the redevelopment of the west block of the campus and
acknowledge that reuse and/or relocation of the former AME Zion Church may not be
feasible.
The third policy that is relevant to the nomination application is in Chapter 6, Urban Design,
of the Comprehensive Plan. Policy number 2 states: "Encourage private preservation of
buildings which have historic or architectural merit or both." Listing the former AME Zion
Church on the National Register is not necessarily an incentive for the private preservation
of an historic resource. Inclusion on the National Register is an action taken by a public
agency in order to identi~ buildings or districts worthy of pi’eservation. Inclusion on the
Register does not mean that a property owner will automatically receive tax credits or
deductions or other possible benefits. Inclusion on the Register may, in fact, make it more
difficult to modi~" or relocate an historic structure, even if it is necessa~, to do one or both
of these things to make retention of the historic structure feasible.
DISCUSSION
The former AME Zion Church building is listed as a Category 3 on the Palo Alto Historic
Invento~r (see Attachment 5 - Historic Inventory Sheets). A Category 3 building is a
"Contributing Building" which is defined, in part, as: "any building or group of buildings
which are good local examples of architectural styles and which relate to the character of a
neighborhood grouping in scale, materials, proportion or other factors." The building was
given the Category 3 status in 1979 because it was considered to be of less than significant
historic value architecturally. The categories in the Palo Alto Historic Preservation Ordinance
focus on the physical or architectural significance of buildings and do not address the social
or cultural aspects of historic preservation. The Category 3 rating was factored into the
discussion and decisions regarding the former Church in the PAMF Specific Plan. The
Specific Plan encourages the reuse and possible relocation of the building because of its
historic importance, but does not require those actions, and provides alternative measures if
reuse and relocation are found to be infeasible.
CMR:114:96 Page 8 of l0
Additionally, a recent assessment of the structural stability of the building by the Chief
Building Official revealed that the building is in a serious state of disrepair and obsolescence.
The roofing material is severely deteriorated and the roof sheathing is directly exposed to
the weather, which allows rain to flow directly into the building interior. On the north and
south facades, the stucco exterior is detached from the framing below. There is substantial
evidence of dry rot and termite damage. The building demonstrates a potential collapse
hazard in even a moderate seismic event.
Although the Medical Foundation is in the process of exploring the feasibility, of moving to
a new location, completely outside the area defined as the "Campus" in the PAMF Specific
Plan, the Plan is an approved document. Recommending approval of an action by another
public agency that would be inconsistent with the policies approved in the Specific Plan
would give conflicting direction to the property owner as well as the residents in the area.
A more appropriate time to reconsider how to approach the preservation of the former ~
Zion Church building and its contribution to the culture and history of the area would be after
PAMF vacates the area and a new plan is developed for its reuse. If, during that review, the
City finds that inclusion on the National Register could contribute to the preservation of the
former Church building, another nomination application could be submitted to the State.
The City must respond to the current application nomination by February 2., 1996, which
is the date that the State Historical Resources Commission will be reviewing the nomination.
ALTERNATIVES
The City Council could recommend to the State Historic Resources Board and the SHPO
that the nomination of the former AME Zion Church building be approved and forwarded
on to the National Park Service for final review and approval.
FISCAL IMPACT
There is no fiscal impact on the City of Palo Alto as a result of any of the possible actions
regarding the nomination or placement of the former AME Zion Church on the National
Register of-Historic Places.
ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT
The City Council’s recommendation on this issue is not considered a project subject to the
California Environmental Quality Act (Section 21065).
STEPS FOLLOWING APPROVAL
The City Council recommendation will be forwarded on to the State Historic Resources
Commission and the SHPO. If the SHPO recommends approval of the nomination, it will
be forwarded on to the National Park Service for final action and inclusion on the National
Register of Historic Places. If the SHPO recommends disapproval of the nomination, it will
CMR:114:96 Page 9 of 10
be forwarded on to the National Park Service only for determination of its eligibility for
inclusion on the Register. It will not be officially added to the Register.
ATTACHMENTS/EXHIBITS
1.Draft Letter to Cherilyn Widell, dated JanuaI3r 18, 1996
3.
4.
5.
National Register Fact Sheet
National Register of Historic Places Application
Excerpt from the PAMF Specific Plan - Study Area Map
Historic Inventory Sheets
CC:Historic Resources Board
Ruth Ann Gray
Palo Alto Medical Foundation (David Jury)
University South Neighborhoods Association (Judith Kemper)
University Park Association (Susan Beall)
CMR:114:96 Page 10 of 10
January18,1996
Attachment 1
State Historical Resources Commission
City Council Chambers
Room 247, Pasadena City Hall
! 00 North Garfield Avenue
Pasadena, CA
To the State Historical Resources Commission members and Ms. Cherilyn Widell, State Historic
Preservation Officer:
819 Ramona Drive, Palo Alto, CA - Nomination to the National Register of Historic
Places
Thank you for the opportunity to comment on the application for the former University African
Methodist Episcopal (AME) Zion Church building to be nominated to the National Register of
Historic Places. We recognize and appreciate the honor involved in having an application for
such a nomination made for a building within the City of Palo Alto.
The Ci~ Council has reviewed the nomination application carefully and recommends that you
disapprove the nomination and not forward it on to the National Park Service for any further
action. The Council would like to point out that the building was sold by the Church in 1995 and
has been used as a storage facility by the Palo Alto Medical Foundation for the past forty years.
A recent assessment of the structural stability of the building conducted by the Chief Building
Official revealed that the building is in a serious state of disrepair and obsolescence. The roofing
material is severely deteriorated and the roof sheathing is directly exposed to the weather, which
allows rain to flow directly into the building interior. On the north and south facades, the stucco
exterior is detached from the framing below. There is substantial evidence of dry rot and termite
damage. The building demonstrates a potential collapse hazard in even a moderate seismic event.
Placing the Church building on the National Register would also be incompatible with the
approved Palo Alto Medica! Foundation (PAMF) Specific Plan, of which the Church site is a
part. In August 1991, the City of Palo Alto approved the PAMF Specific Plan for the area in
which the AME Zion Church is currently located. The Church is part of the "West Block" of the
Specific Plan area. The Land Use Element of the Specific Plan contains two policies (Numbers 2
and 20), which relate directly to the Church site. Policy Number 2 states: "The entire West
Block will be developed for Palo Alto Medical Foundation uses". The policy text further states
that the West Block will be redeveloped for uses which may include research and medical care as
well as administration and storage. The policy acknowledges that buildings and uses in the West
Block may change or be removed as a result of the evolving needs of the Medical Foundation.
Policy Number 20 of the Land Use Element states:"The former AME Zion Church structure
should be used or relocated if feasible. If it is not feasible to use or relocate this structure, then
the Foundation will retain the Ficus tree which is now located next to the church structure; place
a plaque on the former church site commemorating the history and cultural contribution of the
church; underwrite a documentation of the church’s history at this site and display this
documentation in the Foundation facilities". This policy specifically acknowledges that it may
not be practical for the Foundation to reuse or relocate the AME Zion Church and that the
alternative would be to demolish it and commemorate the Church’s contribution to the history
and culture of the area through a plaque and other written documentation.
The AME Zion church is listed as a Category 3 on the Palo Alto Historic Inventory. A Category
3 building is a "Contributing Building: which is defined, in part, as: "any building or group of
buildings which are good local examples of architectural styles and which relate to the character
of a neighborhood grouping in scale, materials, proportion or other factors". The building was
given the Category 3 status in 1979 because it was considered to be less than significant historic
value architecturally. The categories in the Palo Alto Historic Preservation Ordinance focus on
the physical and architectural significance of buildings and do not address the social or cultural
aspects of historic preservation. The Category 3 rating was factored into the decisions regarding
the Church in the PAMF Specific Plan. While the Specific Plan encourages the reuse and
possible relocation of the building because of its historic importance, it does not require those
actions, and provides alternative measures if reuse and relocation are found to be infeasible.
The PAMF Specific Plan is an approved City document. The City Council can not support any
action that would be inconsistent with the policies in the Plan. To do so would give conflicting
direction to the property owner and the residents in the area. The Palo Alto Medical Foundation
is currently exploring the feasibility of moving to a new location, completely outside the area
defined in the PAMF Specific Plan. The City Council believes that a more appropriate time to
reconsider howto approach the preservation of the AME Zion Church would be after the
Foundation vacates the area and during the time when a new plan is developed for the areas
reuse. If, during that effort, the City finds that inclusion on the National Register could contribute
to the preservation of the Church, another nomination application could be submitted to the
State.
Thank you again for the opportunity to comment on this nomination application.
Sincerely,
Mayor
cc David Jury,. .......
Attachment 2
National Register Fact Sheet
The National Register of Histodc Places is the nation’s official list of buildings,
structures, objects, sites, and distri~s worthy of preservation. The National Register ¯
was established by the National Histodc Preservation Act of. 1966. The purposes of
the Act are: to insure that properties significant in national, state, and local history are
considered in the planning of federal undertakings; and to encourage historic
preservation initiatives by state and local governments and the pdvate sector.
The following benefits are associated with-National Register listing:
1. Listed properties may use the State Historic Building Code, a more flexible
alternative to the Uniform Building Code. The use of this code may save owners
money when repairing or rehabilitating their properties.
2. Under the Tax Reform Act of 1986, a privately owned building that is listed in
the National Register or is a contributing building in a National Register historic distdct
may be eligible for a 20% federal income investment tax credit based on the costs of a -
qualified rehabilitation of the building. These credits apply only to income-producing,
depreciable properties, including residential rental properties. The credits do not.
apply to owner-occupied residential properties. Plans for the rehabilitation are
reviewed by the State Historic Preservation Offide and the National Park Service, and
work on the building must meet federal rehabilitation standards.
3. The Tax Treatment Extension Act of 1980 provides federal tax deductions for
preservation easements that result in a decline of fair market value when conservation
restrictions are placed on the property by the owner.
4. All properties and districts listed in or eligible for listing in the National
Register are considered in the planning of federal undertakings such as highway
construction and Community Development Block Grant projects. =Federal
undertakings" also inciL,~le activities sponsored by state or local governments or
private entities if they are licensed or partially funded by the federal government.
=Federal undertakings" do not include loans made by banks insured by the FDIC or
federal farm subsidies. National Register listing does not provide absolute protection
from federal actions that may affect the property. It means that if a federal undertaking
is in conflict with the preservation of a National Register property, the California Office
of Historic Preservation will negotiate with the responsible federal agency in an effort
to eliminate, minimize, or otherwise take into account the undertaking’s effect on the
historic property. This review procedure applies to properties that are determined
eligible for the National Register in the day-to-day environmental review process as
well as those actually listed in the National Register.
5. In California, a local tax assessor may enter into conVacts with property
owners for property tax reductions tb, rough the Mills Act.
6. QualifK:ation for grants when funds are available.
7. Listed properties are recognized for their architectural or histodc worth, an
intangible benefrt that is nonetheless valuable. Usting in the Register is primarily an
honor, meaning that a property has been researched and evaluated according to
established procedures and determined to be worthy of preservation.
8. Properties listed in, or officially determined eligible for listing in the National
Register are automatically listed in the California Register of Historical Resources.
The following may sometimes be regarded as restrictions on National Register listed
properties:
1. A project receiving federal assistance such as Community Development
Block Grant funds must be reviewed by the Office of Historic Preservation to determine
and hopefully avoid or lessen any potentially adverse effects on National Register
properties. Any work undertaken using federal funds must generally use the Secretary
of the Interiors Standards for Rehabilitation Projects. Please note, however, that if a
property is not listed, but is eligible for listing, the same requirements apply. In other
words, actual listing does not increase the owner’s responsibility under the law.
2. ff a project is subject to the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA),
then the National Register designation of a property (or the determination of its
eligibility) would indicate its significance and the need to take into account any effects
of the project on the property. Note - this is not necessarily a drawback, depending on
the point of view of the owner/local agency. Note also that significance can also be
evidenced by other state or iocaJ designation, surveys, orother pmfessionaJ
evaluation.
3; A locaJ agency maytie listing in the National Register to restri~ons imposed
locally, such as design review. This does not come autornatica]ty with lis’dng, however,
but must come about as a result of.separate local action. Check with your local
government.
4. If a property is list~l in the National Register, either individually or as a
contributor in a National Register district, the owner may not take the 10% federal
investment tax credit available for rehabilitation projects on commercial buildings
constructed pdor to 1936. By following the Secretary of the Interior’s Standards,
however, the owner may take the 20% incentive.
5. Proposals to demolish or significantly alter a National Register property
damaged in an earthquake or other natural disaster may be subject to review by the
Office of Historic Preservation. (See Section 5028 of the Public Resources Code.)
There are some common misconceptions about the implications of listing:
1. It is not tnJe that the federal, state, or local government assumes any property
rights in the building as a result of listing. Owners are not required to open their
homes to the public. If a project is not subject to CEQA, to local preservation
ordinances, or to the other environmental regulations outlined above, owners are free
to make changes to their property. It is possible that the property could be so altered,
however, that it would be removed from the Register.
2. Unfortunately, it-is also not true that there are large sums of money available
to. assist owners and local agencies in rehabilitating National Register properties.
Funds are very limited, with the federal tax credits being the most generally available
financial assistance.
United States Department of the int~
National Park Service
Attachment 3
National Register of Historic Places
Registration Form
This form is for use in nominating or requesting determinations for individual properties and districts. See instructions in How to Complete the
National Register of Historic Places Registration Form (National Register Bulletin 16A). Complete each item by marking "x" in the appropriate box or
by entedng the information requested. If an item does not apply to the property being documented, enter "N/A" for "not applicable." For functions,
architectural classification, materials, and areas of significance, enter only categories and suboategories from the instructions, Place additional
entries and narrative items on continuation sheets (NPS Form 10-900a). Use a typewriter, word processor, or computer, to complete all items.
1. Name of Property
historic name University African Methodist Episcopal Zion Church
other names]site number The Ramona Street Church or the Former University A.M.E. Zion Church
2. Location
street & number 819 £,.amona Street:not for publication
city or town Palo Alto [] vicinity
state California code~CA county Santa Clara code ~085 zip code 94301
3. State/Federal A~lenc~f Certification
As the designated authority under the National Historic Preservation Act, as amended, I hereby certify that this [] nomination
[] request for determination of eligibility meets the documentation standards for registering properties in the National Register of
Historic Places and meets the procedural and professional requirements set forth in 36 CFR Part 60. In my opinion, the property
[] meets [] does not meet the National Register criteria. I recommend that this property be considered significant
[] nationally [] statewide [] locally. (["~ See continuation sheet for additional comments.)
Signature of certifying official/Title Date
State of Federal agency and bureau
In my opinion, the property [] meets [] does not meet the National Register criteria. ([] See continuation sheet for additional
comments.)
Signature of certifying officialPRtle Date
State or Federal agency and bureau
4. National Park Service Certification
hereby certify that the property is:
[] entered in the National Register.
[] See continuation sheet.
[] determined eligible for the
National Register
[] See continuation sheet.
[] determined not eligible for the
National Register.
[] removed from the National
Register.
~ other, (explain:)
Signature of the Keeper Date of Action
University A.M.E. Zion Church
Name o~ Property
5. Classification
Ownership of Property
(Check as many boxes as apply)
Category of Property
(Check only one box)
,~ private r~ building(s)
[] public-local [] district
[] public-State [] site
[] public-Federal [] structure
[] object
Santa Clara, CA
County and St~,~
Number of Resources within Property(Do not include previously listed resources in the count.)
Contributing Noncontributing
Church Building buildings
sites
structures
objects
Total
Name of related multiple property listing(Enter "N/P," if property is not part of a multiple property listing.)
6. Function or Use
Historic Functions
(Enter categories from instructions)
RELIGION/Religious Facility/ Church
RELIGION/Church-Related Residence/Parsonage
SOCIAL/Meeting Hall/Fraternal Organizations
SOCIAL/Civic/Volunteer and Public Service
RECREATION AND CULTURE/Music Facility
RECREATION AND CULTURE/Auditorium/Hall
SOCIAL/Clubhouse
RELIGION/Church School
Number of contributing resources previously listed
in the National Register
N/A
Current Functions
(Enter categories from instructions)
VACANT/NOT IN USE
COMMERCE/TRADE/Warehouse/Warehouse and.
Medical Storage
Lots
7. Description
Architectural Classification
IEmer categories from instructions)
OTHER
Matedals
(Entercategodesfrominstructions)
foundation P~~r~ Concrete Stem Foundation
walls Perimeter wood fram~ ~t~,,r~ ~ith
2 in Stud walls and Cripple walls
roof High (~) Pitch "Cathedral"
other External finish Stucco with wire mesh
fastened to plank wood hoard sheathing
Narrative Description
(Describe the historic and current condition of the property on one or more continuation sheets.)
University A.M.E. Zion Church Santa Clara~ CA
Name of Property County and ~
8. Statement of Si~lnificance
Applicable National Register Criteria
(Mark "x" in one or more boxes for the criteria quali~ing the property
for National Register listing.)
~B
~C
Property is associated with events that have made
a significant contribution to the broad patterns of
our history.
Property is associated with the lives of persons
significant in our past.
"Areas of Significance
(Enter cat~ories f~m instructions)
RELIGION
ETHNIC HERITAGE/Afrlcan American
SOCIAL HISTORY
COMMUNITY PLANNING AND DEVELOPMENT
Property embodies the distinctive characteristics
of a type, period, or method of construction or
represents the work of a master, or possesses
high artistic values, or represents a significant and
distirfguishable entity whose components lack Period of Significance
individual distinction.
~ D Property has yielded, or is likely to yield,
information important in prehistory or history.
Criteria Considerations
(Mark "x" in all the boxes that apply,)
Property is:
-- A owned by a religious institution or used for
religious purposes.
_~-B removed from its original location.
~C a birthplace or grave.
_D a cemetery.
--E a reconstructed building, object, or structure.
~F a commemorative property.
~ G less than 50 years of age or achieved significance
within the past 50 years.
,19’22--I1965:h .~ ".
Significant Dates
1918: Church Founded in Palo Alto
1922-1925: Groundbreakin~ and Constructicn
1945: Purchase of Parsonage (827 Ramona)
Significant Person
(Complete if Criterion B is marked above)
Cultural Affiliation
Architect/Builder
Unknown
Narrative Statement of Significance
(Explain the significance of the property on one or more continuation sheets.)
9. Major Biblio~lraphical References
Bibliography
(Cite the books, articles, and other sources used in preparing this form on one or more continuation sheets.)
Previous documentation on file (NPS):
[] preliminary determination of individual listing (36
CFR 67) has been requested
[] previously listed in the National Register
[] previously determined eligible by the National
Register
[] designated a National Historic Landmark
[] recorded by Historic American Buildings Survey
#
[] recorded by Historic American Engineering
Record #
Primary location of additional data:
[] State Historic Preservation Office
[] Other State agency
[] Federal agency
[] Local government
[] University
[] Other
Name of repository:
Palo Alto Main Library & Palo Alto
Historical Society Archives
UDiversity A,M,E, Zion ChurchName of Property
Santa Clara, CA
County ant’ te
10. Geographical Data
Acreage of Property .13 for Lot APN# 120-028-024;
.ii for Lot APN# 120-028-013
UTM References
(Place additional UTM references on a continuation sheet.)
.12 for Lot APN# 120-028-025
Zone Easting Northing
Verbal Boundary Description
Zone Easting Northing
[] See continuation sheet
(Describe the boundaries of the property on a continuation sheet.)
Boundary Justification
(Explain why the boundaries were selected on a continuation sheet.)
11. Form Prepared
name/title Ruth Anne Gray
organization
street & number 79_5 North Fair Oaks Ave.
city or town Sunnyvale
Additional Documentation
Submit the following items with the completed form:
Continuation Sheets
Maps
Onit #2
date Novern}~er /4 : ]995
telephone (408) 749-9032
state CA zip code 94086
A USGS map (7.5 or 15 minute series) indicating the property’s location.
A Sketch map for historic districts and properties having large acreage or numerous resources.
Research and Education
telephone
state CA zip code
Photographs
Representative black and white photographs of the property.
Additional items
(Check with the SHPO or FPO for any additional items)
Propert7 Owner
(Complete this item at the request of SHPO or FPO.)
name Palo Alto Medical Foundation Health Care,
street & number 400 Channin~ Avenue
city or town Palo Alto 94301
Paperwork Reduction Act Statement: This information is being collected for applications to the National Register of Histodc Places to nominate
properties for listing or determine eligibility for listing, to list properties, and to amend existing listings. Response to this request is required to obtain
a benefit in accordance with the National Historic Preservation Act, as amended (16 U.S.C. 470 et seq.).
Estimated Burden Statement: Public reporting burden for this form is estimated to average 18.1 hours per response including time for reviewing
instructions, gathering and maintaining data, and completing and reviewing the form. Direct comments regarding this burden estimate or any aspect
of this form to the Chief, Administrative Services Division, National Park Service, P.O. Box 37127, Washington, DC 20013-7127; and the Office of
Management and Budget, Paperwork Reductions Projects (1024-0018), Washington, DC 20503.
United States Department of the Interior
National Park Service
National Register of Historic Places
Continuation Sheet
Section number 7 Page I University A.M.E. Zion Church
Santa Clara County, CA
Architectural Description
Summary:
The former University African Methodist Episcopal Zion Church is a large rectangularone-story" building designed and constructed between 1924-1925, to se~,e religious,
spiritual and social needs for gatherings of the Palo Alto community. The building plan
includes an open porch and "bel! tower" in the front part of the church. It also has a high
(112) pitch "cathedral", gable type roof, and a vaulted ceiling inside the church hall itself.
Its simple modem style does not follow any specific architectural trend, and is a simple
wood frame structure with wood plank boards, sheathing, and a stucco exterior covering
the entire building. The church building retains its original character and appearance. The
building has not been modified, altered or remodelled in any way since its construction in
1925. However, this building is in danger of demolition, and is currently being used as
storage by the present owner: the Palo Alto Medical Research Foundation who has owned
it since 1965. It is presently in a deteriorating state: abandoned, unused, and neglected. At
this writing, we were only able to make exterior visual observations and assessments. We
have not yet had access to the interior of the building or to the basement areas. We are
hoping for access in the future. The church is located in downtown Palo Alto at 819
Ramona Street in the block between Homer and Channing Avenue, and three blocks east
of University Avenue. The church is bordered by two parking lots on either side. The
surrounding neighborhood is transitional, and is of mixed use ranging from commercial
and office use, medical laboratories, light industrial, and high to single-family residential.
Building Design and Current Status
As one stands on Ramona Avenue and faces the church, the building is set on the center of
a rectangular shaped lot with dimensions of 50 ft. by 112.5 ft. We utilized the current
Santa Clara County Tax Assessor map. The APN number is: 120-28-025; and
neighboring lots: l) 827 Ramona, to the right of the church, on the Southeast with APN.
number: 120-28-024, and 2) the lot situated on the left of the church to the Southwest at the
comer of Homer and Ramona, APN number: 120-28-013. The lot on the corner of
Homer and Ramona served as a parking !ot for parishioners during the days of the church.
It is currently in need of resurfacing. Currently, this lot and the lot at 827 Ramona serve as
private parking for the Palo Alto Medical Research Foundation. The parking areas are
finished with concrete pavement. The parking lot at 827 Ramona has a large untrimmed
and overgrown tree whose roots have cracked the pavement. The tree is close enough to
the Southeast comer of the church (at the front) to obstruct the visual view of the church,
United States Department of the Interior
National Park Service
National Register of Historic Places
Continuation Sheet
Section number 7 Page 2 University A.M.E. Zion Church
Santa Clara County, CA
and to possibly causing damage to the church via its root system. The concrete pavement
s~urrounding the tree is cracked and uneven.
The church building is set back five feet from the pedestrian pavement, and the entrance to
the building is located in the front facade, thus, providing an inviting and welcoming sense
to the buitding’s entrance. The building is accessed by four external concrete steps, and the
actual interior hall is entered by one wooden step which is part of the porch floor. The
building owners have blocked access to the porch with a hurricane fence. Additionally,
medical equipment and furniture is stored on the porch. There is limited access to the main
hall of the church.
The roof has a one foot overhang formed in the shape of a wide box cornice, and extended
for one foot to the neighboring walls. The roof is covered by composite, asphalt shingles
fastened to the sheathing on the structure of the roof. We will discuss current damage to
the roof as we look at each elevation. However. wherever shingle and composite roof
material is missing, one can easily see the wood sheathing of the roof. The exterior wall
finish on all sides of the building, including the "bell" tower and chimney, are of
conventional "stucco", laid with chicken or similar wire mesh, and fastened to the wall
sheathing of the wood plank boards fastened to the stop wall. Originally the building’s
stucco exterior was painted a light tan or off white, to match some of the regional
sandstone architectural style buildings in the area. The wood framework was painted
chocolate brown, and the ornamental glass filtered the light to the church through its muted
yellowish coloration. Unfortunately, the stucco has now an pinkish-orange discoloration.
The church has a rectangular floor plan, approximately 36 feet by 50 feet, including its
open front porch. It also has a high (1/2) pitch "cathedral", gable type roof, and a vaulted
ceiling inside the church hall itself.
The left front (southwest) portion of the building has an 8 foot bv 8 toot "’in plan’" in the
form of a "bell" tower, with an elevated roof, approximately two feet above the ridge or the
church roof. The "bell" tower has a window on the west elevation. Currently, the
overgrown tree (once a sapling bush) grows against the southwest comer of the building,
along side of the bell tower. It may be another cause of root damage to the building, and its
branches may also damage the roof. It should be removed. On that same side, the location
where the church sign was mounted, the wall is badly discolored. A large City owned curb
side tree has been allowed to become overgrown, thereby damaging the roof of the church.
The sidewalk is cracked and uneven, and a trip hazard due to root damage.
United States Department of the Interior
National Park Service
National Register of Historic Places
Continuation Sheet
Section number Page 3 University A.M.E. Zion Church
Santa Clara County, CA
The entrance to the building is through a nine foot wide opening with an arch form top
,finish, leading to the porch, and then to the church hall interior. To the right of the opening.
is a six foot wide window, also with an arched top and ornamental glass. Some of the
glass in the lower portion of this window has been broken out. The frame of the window
is badly weathered and paint and surface wood is missing. Above the arched porch
opening and the six foot window is a second window in the form of an isosceles triangle,
also with ornamental glass. This window, other than perhaps some missing caulking and
minor cracking in the stucco below the left comer, is in good shape. Windows and doors
are surrounded by plain milled boards, and the front windows have simple mouldings.
Fascia on the roof and gable ends are of the same simple millwork.
The Southwest or Western elevation has three, 3 ft. wide x 7 ft. high windows to tight the
church hall, and one 3 ft. x 3 ft. window to the porch, beneath the "bell tower". There are
three ventilation openings beneath each large window for the crawl space or basement. The
stucco finish is badly cracked and bulging for several feet in a horizontal crack along the
level of the basement vents, and downward from mid wall of this elevation. The stucco
has peeled away from the structural framework in this area, and this damage is most
prevalent towards the rear of the building on this elevation side. At the Northwest corner
of the building (in the rear) missing stucco appears to have been recently "filled" in as a
"quick-fix". Most of the damage and deterioration of the roof is very evident from this
elevation side. The original roofing is missing in large chunks, and the owner has covered
the roof with two large tarps. The rain gutter is missing from this side. Windows and vent
openings appear to have been blocked from the inside, either by wood or bv equipment.
The stucco finish in general is cracked and discolored.
The Eastern elevation has two windows which are three feet wide and seven feet high over
a shed roof which covers the entrance to the basement. The entrance to the basement of the
building is located on the east foundation stem wall. Access is gained through concrete
steps 2 ft. 6 in wide, and surrounded by concrete retaining walls. The steps are covered by
a shed roof over a wood post frame and joists. There is one 3 ft. x 3 ft. window above a
wood-panelled evacuation door. There is also one vent opening to the basement. There are
no steps to the evacuation door. The windows have been blocked from the inside, and the
evacuation door is very weathered and damaged. Stucco surrounding the bottom of the
door’.’t-rame has crumbled away. There is a large buckling, sagging crack in the stucco
between the vent openings. On this elevation some of the glass has been broken out of the
windows. A spotlight appears to have been added near the rear of the building on this
elevation side: its purpose being to provide light for the parking lot at 827 Ramona.
United States Department of the Interior
National Park Service
National Register of Historic Places
Continuation Sheet
Section number 7 Page 4 University A.M.E. Zion Church
Santa Clara County, CA
There is cracking in the stucco around the window and door frames. The stucco is badly
discolored and stained above the shed roof structure, at the bottom of the windows, and
from the roof/rain gutter area. Some of the roof is missing near the rain gutter edge, and
the plank board sheathing is visible. The rain gutter on this side is detached from the roof,
and the lower half of the rain gutter is missing.
The rear or Northeast wall of the building has an attached chimney elevated approximately
two feet above the ridge of the roof, and located slightly off-center (towards the west) on
this wail. The rear wall also has two vent openings in the cripple wall leading into the
basement of the building. Unused equipment appears to block both baselnent ~ indow~.
The stucco exterior has minor cracking throughout.
The building is constructed as a simple 2 in. x(unknown size) studs wall frame over the
first (ground) floor: it also consists of wooden plank boards supported by 2x joists on
short two foot high perimeter "pony" or "cripple" walls extended up from the perimeter,
concrete foundation stem work, and short 4 in. x 4 in. posts supported bv concrete footings
inside the building, inside the high crawl space, and in the basement, which contains the
furnace/heater.
Conclusions and Recommendations
The building is in very poor condition: neglected, abandoned, in a state of dilapidation, and
not maintained by the present owner. A substantial portion of the original roofing material
is missing and tarpaulin covers only part of the damage. Water is infiltrating the building
through the roof, as are other damaging environmental elements such as bird droppings,
and overgrown trees. Stucco on some portions of the walls is missing, cracked and
bulging on the level of the ground floor structure, particularly near basement vents. The
budging does not indicate structural damage, since the stucco appears to peel away from
the framework. This may mean that the cripple walls of the longitudinal wails (for the East
and West elevations) are carrying all the load of the roof structure. There is a wide
diagonal crack in the stucco on the top of the front wall at the level of the roof, and also a
vertical crack between the chimney and the building at the Northeast elevation, and other
hairline cracks on the other walls. These cracks were caused, most likely, by the Loma
Prieta earthquake of 1989, and by age.
United States Department of the Interior
National Park Service
National Register of Historic Places
Continuation Sheet
Section number 7 Page 5 University A.M.E. Zion Church
Santa Clara County, CA
Although costly, restoration of the building would be of tremendous benefit and historic
value to the community. A rough estimate of the work and funding needed to complete
~is task still requires further assessment. The whole structure and the particular elements
of the building should be thoroughly checked, and the stress capacity connection examined.
including proper anchorage, bolting, bracing, sheathing where needed, in accordance with
current UBC standards, city ordinances, and earthquake/seismic requirements. To date
accurate determinations of these issues have not been addressed, and nothing has been
done to maintain or preserve this structure. Additional items needed to be checked are:
insulation, water and weather protection, electrical systems, circuit protection, wiring,
heating/cooling systems, pest inspection, etc.
To date two cursory, assessments have been made by the Palo Alto Medical Foundation to
support their claim that the building is unsafe and to justin, destroying the building. We
very much need an equal chance to fairly assess this historic building and thereby provide
some alternate proof and "balance" to our argument. We ask for your support for this
effort.
United States Department of the Interior
National Park Service
National Register of Historic Places
Continuation Sheet
Section number 8 Page 6 University A.M.E. Zion Church
Santa Clara County, CA
Statement of Significance
The former University African Methodist Episcopal Zion Church sanctuarw located at
819 Ramona Street in downtown Palo Alto, and built in 1925, is historically significant for
being the first African American church built in Palo Alto, and for being the first African
American church, of any religious denomination, to be established in the San Francisco
mid-peninsula between San Mateo and San Jose, CA. The cornerstone for this church was
laid on April 25, 1925. This church served as a religious, social, and community focal
point throughout its active life (1925 - 1965). This building was and still is Palo Alto’s
most important symbol of multicultural, multi-ethnic cooperation and unity manifested
during the early part of this century.. Although this church was built primarily for use bv
the African American congregation, the entire local community contributed to the effort. It
is a unique edifice in that it reflects the positive racial and ethnic harmony and good will of
Palo Alto.
Historic Back_~round and Significance
The African Methodist Episcopal Zion Church was founded in New York City in October
1796. It grew under the auspices and guidance of the United Methodist movement in the
United States. founded bv Rev. John Wesley. The church, and Methodists in genentl, had
at their core beliefs a committment to individual freedom, human rights, and education.
The struggle for African American freedom, symbolized by the Underground Railroad.
had its basis and support in the church. Historically, African Americans had to struggle for
the right of religious freedom and assembly. Even within the American Methodist church
movement, severe restrictions and limitations were imposed on African Americans who
wanted to worship. White Americans often feared the emergence of preachers amongst
African American slaves; there was fear that a strong minister or leader might encourage
slave insurrections. This idea prevailed after slavery, during the Reconstruction Era.
Religous worship was eventually permitted and African American ministers were allowed
ordination and permission to preach, but not without limitations, intimidation, and fear.
One of the first A.M.E. Zion ministers. Rev. John Jameson Moore. left Baltimore, MA in
1852. Oftern travelling by foot, he made his way to California. As he travelled, he
preached to fugitive slaves, traveling by day and preaching at night. In California Rev.
Moore also established the first Negro school in California and on the Pacific coast.
Throughout history, the A.M.E. Zion Church proved to be in the forefront of ministering to
African Americans. The A.M.E. Zion Church had missions in California in the 19th
United States Department of the Interior
National Park Service
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Continuation Sheet
Section number 8 Page 7 university A.M.E. Zion Church
Santa Clara County, CA
century. First A.M.E. Zion Church was organized in San Francisco on August 1, 1852 by
Rev. Moore. On January 10, 1868 Bishop J.J. Clinton established the first California
Conference (a meeting of all A.M.E. Zion churches) in San Francisco, of which three
churches participated: San Francisco, San Jose, and Napa. Due to occassional lapses in
leadership, the growth of the church in California stagnated between 1868 - 1881.
However, after 1881, the A.M.E. Zion church in the Western United States experienced
rapid growth. By the turn of the century, the California Conference embraced not only
California, but Oregon, Washington state, and Arizona. There were half a million
members with.3,612 church buildings, and 2,500 ordained clergymen.
University African Methodist Episcopal Zion Church Mission (University ,,MME Zion
Church) was founded in 1918 in Palo Alto under the leadership on Rev. J.W. Byers, and
was the twenty-fourth church established of the African Methodist Episcopal Zion Church
California Conference (a collection of churches within designated districts and states). The
original Palo Alto church founders: Mrs. Metvina McCaw, Mrs. Maude Naris, Mrs. Jennie
Moore Bass, and Mr. Isaac MacDuffey Hinson initially met at the home of Mrs. McCaw
located at 330 Cowper Street in Palo Alto. Membership increased and the newly formed
church held services at rented meeting halls in downtown Palo Alto. As more African
Americans settled and established themselves in Palo Alto during the earn 1920’s. there
arose a need for a permanent church home. In 1922, under the leadership of Rev. Lloyd
W. McCoy, the membership launched an effort to raise money to purchase land and build
a church. Since the Church Mission itself did not qualify for a loan due to its lack of
collateral, Mr. Christiansen, a wealthy member of the white community, and a personal
friend of one of the founders and church Trustee, Isaac Hinson, agreed to make a loan to
the seven Trustees of University AME Zion Church. The Trustees all owned property in
downtown Palo Alto, and were willing to use their personal assets as collateral for the loan.
After a successful fund drive to raise $1,264.00 to begin construction, the cornerstone was
laid for the new church on April 25, 1925. The total cost of the church was $6.000.00. of
which half was earned by various fund raising events. The remainder of the cost was
covered by a mortgage.
In 1935 the effort to retire the mortgage was launched by Rev. J.E. McCorkle who had
long standing experience in the A.M.E. Zion California Conference. Under his leadership
church members canvassed Palo Alto and the surrounding community. Wealthy Palo Alto
citizens, prominent scholars at nearby Stanford University, and area businesses contributed
financial and moral support. The Palo Alto Ministerial Association organized a committee
United States Department of the Interior
National Park Service
National Register of Historic Places
Continuation Sheet
Section number s Page 8 University A.M.E. Zion Church
Santa Clara County, CA
to assist the fund-raising cause. Other religious denominations offeredfacilities, donations,
and moral support as well. All Saints’ Episcopal Church of Palo Alto figured prominently
~’n hosting fund-raising dinners sponsored by University AME Zion Church. Social and
fraternal clubs such as the Rotary Club, the Kiwanis. the Shriners, and the American
Legion, offered financial assistance. Newspaper columnist Dallas E. Wood, writer of
"The Prowler" for the Palo Alto Times, wrote favorablv about the efforts of Palo Alto
African American citizens to support their church and its contribution to the community.
Mr. Wood’s weekly articles gave the fund-raising effort needed visibility. The Japanese
Methodist Church donated $550.00 in Julv 1939, serving as the critical, final payment of
University AME Zion Church’s mortgage. As a result of this generosity, the mortgage
was burned on July 8, 1939 with much ceremony.
In 1945 the adjacent house at 827 Ramona Street was purchased for use as a parsonage.
The house became available for sale as a result of the Japanese internment during WWII.
This house had its own uniqe history,: Mr. G. Okazawa had owned the home for many
years and utilized it as a boarding house. However, in the basement of the house, Sunday
school and adult workshops were held bv the Palo Alto Japanese Methodist Church.
established by Japanese American students attending Stanford University. This building
was a two story structure with an enclosed upstairs porch. It has since been demolished by
the current owner. However. between 1945 through 1965 the house served as a banquet
hall, multipurpose meeting room, theatre, and class rooms to suit whatever educational or
cultural needs University A.M.E. Zion church required.
In subsequent years the church continued its traditional historic goals of indivdual freedom.
human fights, and education. The church served as a focal point for events raising social
and community awareness. For example, on June 22. 1947 Community Lodge 43: Eree
and Accepted Masons, celebrated St. John’s Day at the church. Historically. Negro
Ereemasonry was established in the United States in 1787 by Prince Hall of Boston, MA
who received a charter from England to begin the movement on behalf of African
Americans. The Palo Alto fraternal organization was created in 1927, and, of course,
supported by the church. With the onset of the Civil Rights movement, rallies were held at
the church, as well as voter registration drives.
In 1965 the congregation sold the church property to the Palo Alto Medical Foundation,
and relocated to its present site at 3549 Middlefield Road in Palo Alto.
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National Park Service
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Continuation Sheet
Section number 8 Page 9 University A.M.E. Zion Church
Santa Clara County, CA
The existence of this church points directly to the long-standing African American heritage,
notibly in Palo Alto, but also in the Bay Area and California in general. African Americans
lived within close proximity to downtown University Avenue and to their White
neighbors. Several African Americans owned properties which were situated near
Ramona Street close to the church. This section of town, in addition, reflected a
multicultural, mutli-ethnic neighborhood mix. Although there was real estate "Red
Lining", even during Palo Alto’s early years, ethnic and racial groups lived throughout
Palo Alto.
NPS Form 10~90~ O~B
United States Department of the Interior
National Park Service
National Register of Historic Places
Continuation Sheet
9 i0Section number Page University A.M.E. Zion Church
Santa Clara County, CA
BIBLIOGRAPHY
Coffman, Arthur. An Illustrated History_ of Pato Alto. Palo Alto: Lewis Osborne, 1969.
Fletcher, D. Cassandra, Ph.D. "The History of Palo Alto: The Minorities’ Point of View".
Palo Alto: Palo Alto Historical Association Archives, 1987.
Gray, Ruth Anne. "Palo Alto’s First Black Church: University A.M.E. Zion". Palo Alto:
Palo Alto Historica~ Association Archives, 1979.
Gray, Ruth Anne. "Blacks in Palo Alto History: Historical Notes". Palo Alto: Palo Alto
City Council Archives, 1987.
Miller, Guy C., Ed. Palo Alto Community Book. Palo Alto, Arthur W. Cawston, 1952.
Walls,William J., Bishop. The African Methodist Episcor~al Zion Church: Reality or the
Black Church. Charlotte, NC: A.M.E. Zion Publishing House. 1974.
Winslow, Ward and the Palo Alto Historical Association. Pato Alto: A Centennial History.
Palo Alto: Palo Alto Histroical Association, 1993.
Woodson, Carter G. The History. of the Negro Church. Washington, D.C.: The Associated
Publishers, 1921.
The Palo Alto Times (May 1923; Dec. 3, 1923; March 11, 1924; April 4, 1925;
July 6, 1934; Sept. 7, 1934; Sept. 8, 1934; Sept. 10, 1934: Sept. 18, 1934: April 16, 1935:
April 27, 1935; April 29, 1935; April 30, 1935: May 3, 1935: May 14. 1935:
March 26, 1936; May 5, 1937; May 13, 1937: Mav 14, 1937: Sept. 19. !938:
May 20, 1939; May 25, 1939; May 26, 1939: May 27, 1939; June 3, 1939; July 2, 1939;
July 8, 1939; July 15, 1939; July !6, 1939; Feb. 6, 1943; March 20, 1943: April 5, 1947;
Nov. 1, 1-952; December 4,1954; June 22, 1972; June 12, 1978; December 3, 1989,
December 4, 1989; January 16, 1993; February 18- 28, !993; March 5, 1993).
NOTE: There is an extensive number of newspaper articles pertaining to this church and its
congregation. This listing reflects only a representative sample of available information.
The Palo Alto Weekly (April l, 1992; February 10, 1993: December 8. 1993)
United States Department of the Interior
National Park Service
National Register of Historic Places
Continuation Sheet
Section number lo Page University A.M.E. Zion Church
Santa Clara County, CA
Verbal Boundary Description
United States Department of the Interior
National PaN Service
National Register of Historic Places
Continuation Sheet
i0 12Section number Page University A.M.E. Zion Church
Santa Clara County, CA
Boundary Justification
The boundary includes the church, and par’king lots on either side. The lot at 827 Ramona
is significant for being the location of the two-story house which served as a parsonage and
multi-purpose building for the church beginning in 1945. Prior to 1945, the building was
significant in the history, of Pato Alto Japanese Americans. The lot on the comer of
Ramona and Homer is significant in that it was utilized for many years as parking for the
church.
Attachment 4
--
Attachment 5
City of Palo Alto
Historic Resources Inventory Detail
Date: 25-Jan-P5
Historic Building Inventory ID:349
location
status
ownership
use
description
Historic name:
Common or current name:
Number & street: 819 Ramona Street
City: Palo Alto
Alternate Address:
Past Address:
ZIP:County: Santa Clara
Category:3
Historical District:
Owner: Palo Alto Medical Foundation
Address: 300 Homer Avenue
City: Palo Alto, CA
Present: Abandoned
Original: Church
Past:
[] National Registry
[] State Registry
public ~v private
ZIP: 94301
This simple church structure is essentially Classical Revival in style, with minimal detailing. It is possible
that the original surface was not stucco.
Photo Date: 1978 Property Size frontage: 50
depth: 112.5
acreage:
Condition: deteriorated
Alteration: Unknown
Surroundings:
[] Open
[] Scattered Buildings
[] Densely Built
Other:
[]Residential
[]Commercial
[]Industrial
Threats:
[] None Known
[] Vandalism
[] Private Developmen
Other:
[] Public Works
[] Zoning
page 787
description
(cont.)
significance
Architect:
Builder:
Date: 1924
~ factual
N~tes:
Features:
[] Barn
[] Carriage House
OtherFeatures:
estimated
Exterior Material: stucco
Other Material:
Original Site: original
Theme: architecture
[] Formal Garden [] Outhouse [] Watertower
[] Windmill [] Shed [] None
Formerly the A.ME. Zion (African Methodist Episcopal) Church, which, since 1964, has been located at
3549 Middlefield Road. This was the first black church in Pato Alto, begun in 1919 and holding services
at Fraternity Hall. Then, with 22 members and funds raised in part throughout the town, the new building
was planned in 1923 and dedicated April 5, 1925. During the Depression, appeals to assist in payment of
building and mortgage expenses were generously met by contributions from other churches and from
private individuals, Kathteen Norris, Frank Crist, and Fred Tinney, among others.
sources Guy Miller, Palo Alto Community Book; P.A. Times 4/4/25, 4/27/35, 8/2/35, 7/9/71, 12/7/74.
preparation Organization:
By: Gall Wooley; Historic Resources Board; P.A. Hi
Date: 1979, 1985
DB Record Date: 7/27/94
Address: 250 Hamilton Avenue
City: Palo Alto State: CA ZIP: 94301
Phone:
page 788