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Commission adds Zakheim frescoes at 45 Onondaga to landmarks work program for further study
Summary
Staff told the Commission the Bernard Zakheim frescoes at the former Alemany Health Center appear historically significant but need more contextual research; the Commission voted unanimously to add the murals and buildings to the Landmarks work program and asked the community to help prepare a revised application with staff support.
The Historic Preservation Commission voted Wednesday to add an application to landmark the 1935 Bernard Zakheim frescoes and the former Alemany Health Center at 45 Onondaga Avenue to its Landmarks work program for additional research.
Jonathan Lammers of the Planning Department told the Commission excerpts of consultant reports identify Zakheim as a master artist and recommend considering the frescoes for San Francisco landmark status. Lammers said staff concurs that ‘‘the frescoes and health center are historically significant works by a master artist’’ but urged additional research on the buildings’ roles in community health, their architectural context, and documentation needed to evaluate eligibility.
Richard Rothman, who filed the initial application, and representatives of the New Mission Terrace Improvement Association described outreach and local research. Lammers noted Supervisor Avalos’ office had drafted legislation intended to protect the murals if the city sells the building, including rights to inspect or remove murals and notification requirements for owners.
Community volunteers offered to take the lead on compiling research and archival materials; Planning staff said it would provide technical support. After discussion, commissioners moved to place the murals and buildings on the Commission’s Landmarks work program and to encourage the public to prepare a revised application while staff assists. The motion passed unanimously, 4–0.
The action places the project on the Commission’s internal work list for a case report and future hearing; it does not yet designate the murals or building as a San Francisco landmark.
