Get Full Government Meeting Transcripts, Videos, & Alerts Forever!
Get email alerts on the Landmark Trocadero topic
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
San Francisco historic preservation panel unanimously backs landmarking of Trocadero Clubhouse
Summary
The Historic Preservation Commission voted 7‑0 to recommend landmark designation for the Trocadero Clubhouse in Sigmund Stern Recreation Grove, citing its 1892 construction, Stick/Eastlake architecture and long civic use; public commenters and local heritage groups strongly supported the move.
The Historic Preservation Commission voted unanimously to recommend that the Board of Supervisors designate the Trocadero Clubhouse at Sigmund Stern Recreation Grove as a San Francisco landmark.
Planning staff told the commission the two‑story Stick/Eastlake clubhouse, built in 1892 and donated to the city in 1931 by Rosalie Stern, meets criteria for designation because it is one of the few surviving nineteenth‑century roadhouse buildings in the Parkside neighborhood and retains defining exterior and interior features. Staff asked the commission to forward the revised draft ordinance (including an updated planning‑code reference to Section 1004.3) to the Board of Supervisors.
Why it matters: The clubhouse has served as a long‑running community gathering space — used for recitals, public events and rentals — and advocates said landmark status would preserve both the building’s fabric and its role in neighborhood history.
Public support was unanimous at the hearing. A speaker who identified herself as Eileen Bokin, president of the Sunset Parkside Education and Action Committee (SPEAK), told commissioners the Recreation and Park Department confirmed the clubhouse was spared damage in a recent water‑main rupture and urged approval. San Francisco Heritage’s representative (identified in the record as Ms. LaValle) said the nomination was a "slam dunk," and Parkside Heritage speakers described local efforts to document the building’s cultural significance.
Commissioners praised the nomination. Commissioner Foley said, "the history is amazing" and expressed strong support. Commissioner Black called the nomination a "no brainer" and Commissioner Johns seconded the motion, noting a desire for small factual clarifications in the staff fact sheet. Commissioner Wright moved to approve the revised proposed designation; the motion carried 7‑0, and the commission will forward its recommendation to the Board of Supervisors for final action.
Next steps: The commission’s recommendation will be transmitted to the Board of Supervisors for its consideration; staff noted the Board previously initiated the process and that a Board hearing is the next formal step.
Sources: Planning staff presentation and supporting materials; public commenters at the Historic Preservation Commission hearing.
