The Bryson Block was, at least to my mind, the most beautifully ornate Victorian-era (opened circa 1888) commercial building in turn-of-the century downtown Los Angeles. It is featured here in this circa 1900 photo in its location on the northwest corner of Spring and 2nd Streets. A lot of effort went into all that elaborate detailing on the exterior – all the more extraordinary to think that none of the passers-by would look up and see it. This photo also gives us an idea of the network of overhead power lines needed for the streetcars, but what I especially like is the horse-drawn carriage in the foreground. Is that a surrey? And if so, shouldn’t it have a fringe on top?
Henrik HP says: “After having two stories added, the building was demolished as early as 1934.”
This is roughly how that view looked in May 2024.
My god, it’s like some horror movie!
What a difference a 100 years or so make! Absolutely amazing. And, yes, transportation was via carriage and horse. Of course, shoe manufacturing was a booming business because so many people were walking. Best to live in the city because everything was nearby. The overhead power lines brought about streetcars, but in years to come gave way to busses. Too many lines, too much. Keep the historical photos coming.
Yes, it was the style of the times, but Victorian houses and Los Angeles just never seem to go/fit together to “me.”
What caught my eye was that lantern in the left foreground. Etched glass???
Also, my first time in Boston (man, 40 years ago!) I was overwhelmed by the streets of Victorian buildings like this one. It gave me a very strong impression of the past. Nothing like that has survived in numbers here in L.A.
From “Beauty” to the “Beast”!….
If I were the architectural firm that is responsible for this travesty,
I wouldn’t talk about it!
I am amazed at how many beautiful buildings LA had during the 1900’s. They are really awesome. Thanks Martin for giving us a glimpse of a beautiful era.