Built in 1926 by Herman and Bess Garner, this Spanish Colonial Revival home remains a cornerstone of Claremont’s rich history. Today, the Garner House serves as the city’s center for
historic programs under the care of Claremont Heritage. / photo by Rylee Fournier
by Emma Gonzalez
photography by Rylee Fournier
On the edge of turning 100 years old, the 5,000 square feet Garner house was once hailed as the largest house in Claremont with its 15 rooms and six bathrooms. This Spanish Colonial Revival style home, designed by Los Angeles architect Arthur Munson, was built and occupied from 1926 to 1946 by Herman and Bess Garner, who raised three sons at 840 N. Indian Hill Blvd.
The back patio of the historic Garner House offers a quiet glimpse into Claremont’s past, where timeless architecture meets the charm of California living. / photo by Rylee Fournier
The Garners, both 1910 graduates of Pomona College, were significant community figures. “Herman invented an oil bath air cleaner for tractors and trucks in the 1920s and made a lot of money,” says David Shearer, executive director of Claremont Heritage. His Vortox manufacturing factory was located nearby. Bess was an author and community advocate who contributed to local publications and was deeply involved in civic life. “The Garners built the Padua Hills Theatre, and Bess organized a dinner theater group called the Mexican Players, who performed traditional songs, dances and plays from Mexico,” says Shearer.
“She was originally called ‘Mrs. Claremont,’ says John Neiuber, president of the Board of Directors of Claremont Heritage. “She was embodied in the spirit of Claremont.”
The city purchased the house in 1946 and its surrounding citrus groves, which were then cleared to create the spacious Memorial Park, now a hub for all-community activities. Since 2001, Claremont Heritage gained stewardship of the house, including its ongoing restoration, while using the building as its center for historic programs.
Fundraising comes from venue rentals, guest speakers, and performing and gallery events. “We’ve done everything from weddings to memorials to birthdays, retirement parties—you name it,” says Shearer.
Many of the activities are directed toward children. “Bess found the Claremont youth to be extremely important to her— that’s something that we care about too,” says Carina Arias, Claremont Heritage archivist.
“When you go into the Garner House, you feel all the memories embodied in the space,” says Shearer. “You may not know what they are, but you feel that history when you’re using the space.”
Books line the walls and a vintage globe rests in the corner in a former family library turned office that still reflects the intellectual spirit of the Garners. Every detail hints at their love for learning, history and community. / photo by Rylee Fournier
Inside the Garner House, two rustic chairs sit quietly beneath a pair of vintage paintings. This cozy corner captures the character and history woven into every room. / photo by Rylee Fournier
An antique desk sits just outside the library, warmly lit by a glowing lamp and framed by a blooming orchid. It’s a quiet corner that feels frozen in time, echoing the grace of the Garner House’s past. / photo by Rylee Fournier
The patio behind the Garner House blends historic charm with everyday warmth. String lights overhead add a cozy touch to this timeless Claremont gem. / photo by Rylee Fournier
One of Claremont’s most iconic homes, the Garner House stands tall as a testament to Spanish Colonial Revival architecture and a legacy deeply rooted in community history. / photo by Rylee Fournier
Emma Gonzalez is a senior communications major with a concentration in public relations and a minor in marketing, and a staff writer for the Campus Times. Her interests include community involvement, art, traveling and writing. Emma’s long-term career objective revolves around working for a nonprofit organization that is passionate about helping a target group of individuals. Follow her on Handshake.
Rylee Fournier is a third-year photography major with a marketing minor and a staff photographer for the Campus Times and La Verne Magazine. Outside of school, she runs her own photography business, specializing in weddings and portrait photography. You can find her work on Instagram or at ryleefournierphotography.com.
Recent Comments