Katie Wheeler Library - Irvine, CA
Posted by: 
bluesnote
N 33° 43.831 W 117° 47.124
11S E 427240 N 3732554
A library at Irvine Ranch Historic Park in Irvine, California.
Waymark Code: WM16PDE
Location: California, United States
Date Posted: 09/09/2022
Views: 1
The plaque says, "The present day Kate Wheeler Library is a reconstruction of the outer facade of the Irvine family's residence. The original structure was constructed in 1876 by CE French, general manager for the Ranch Once he gained control of the Ranch in 1892, James Irvine II (J.I.) had the house doubled in size. The house was described as a "rambling thirty room structure whose styles were highly eclectic tear of the Irvine residence."
Damaged by an electrical fire in 1965, the original structure was demolished in 1968. It was rebuilt one inch off the original and opened in February 2008 as the Katie Wheeler Library
Landscaping and gardens were significant features in which the Irvine family took great pride J.I. once stated that "the view from the house is more important than the view of the house." When J.I. married for the third time to Katharine Brown White in 1931, she planted the rose garden and installed the pool.
The remaining formal and man-made landscape features of the Irvine Ranch site are enduring reminders of the function and utilization of the site as a working ranch, and as the residence of the Irvine family."
Type of Structure: Private Building
Other: N/A
Construction Date: 01/01/1876
Fire Date: 01/01/1965
Structure status: Plaque
Cause of Fire:
Electrical Fire
Documentation of the fire: [Web Link]
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Give a narrative of your experience. Did you learn anything after reading about the fire in the waymark? Photos are always welcome too. Please no virtual visits.
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