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Hollywood Riviera was annexed by the city of Torrance in January, 1927, Torrance having gained cityhood in 1912. The history of the Riviera goes back further than 1927, however. Originally the Riviera had been part of Rancho Palos Verdes owned by the Sepulveda family. This Rancho had been part of the first private land grant in California, the Rancho San Pedro given to Juan Jose Dominguez in 1784. In 1882, Rancho Los Paols Verdes was partitioned. An area in the Northwest corner (the northern line of the Rancho is now Sepulveda Boulevard) was known as Block A in this partition. In 1927, Clifford F. Reid began developing this area of 604 acres for the Huntington Land Company. Mr. Reid had previously sold houses in North Hollywood and felt the inclusion of the name Hollywood was good advertising. Additionally, the sloping hillside with the beautiful ocean views was reminiscent of the Mediterranean Riviera. Extremely high standards of architecture were incorporated in the deed restrictions. All buildings were to be of the Mediterranean type with tile roofs. In accordance with the general plan of Torrance before any lots could be sold the company installed streets, lights and sewers. At this time, the deed restrictions were enforced by the board of directors of the Hollywood Riviera Community Association who appointed an Art Jury to review all building plans. The first home constructed was owned by the developer, Clifford Reid, who moved into his large house on Via Monte d'Oro before Christmas in 1928. The second house was owned by Roy C. Stewart, brother-in-law and business associate of Mr. Reid. He moved into his house on via Linda Vista August 1, 1929. to be continued... |
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