Marilyn Monroe is undeniably an absolute icon, and her last home located in Brentwood is one step closer to being an icon in and of itself. The Los Angeles Cultural Heritage Commission recently voted unanimously to recommend that the famous property be officially recognized as an historic cultural monument. It has long been considered an historic and famous landmark by her many fans and admirers, but it is finally getting closer to being legally recognized as such.
The famous Brentwood home
Marilyn only lived in the home for a few months before her untimely passing. While it’s been more than 60 years since she passed away in the Brentwood home, her fans are still trying to see the property in any way they can, such as trying to get a peek over the exterior wall surrounding the private property. Sadly, they sometimes even go so far as actual trespassing.
Possible preservation
Obviously, this level of scrutiny from her passionate fandom is troubling for the home’s current owners and the surrounding neighbors. The current property owners had previously proposed demolishing the home, but that drastic decision was halted last year by the Los Angeles City Council. After that, an effort was made to declare the home an historical cultural monument. The movement is led by Los Angeles City Councilwoman, Traci Park. As the representative from Brentwood, she is passionate about preserving the famous home.
Park declared, “I can’t imagine any home in the city of Los Angeles more worthy of this designation than Marilyn Monroe’s home. It’s also a very fair request from our community and constituents that their interest and privacy be respected as well, so when I hear things about trespassing, that really crosses a line.”
A historic landmark
The decision now moves to the Los Angeles City Council’s Planning and Land Use Management Committee. It will consider the historic landmark nomination before a final vote by the full council. It is expected to come to a vote sometime this week, and if it is approved, the demolition of the home would be delayed for 180 days. This would give time for all parties involved to explore alternative preservation options.
A possible preservation option is already being discussed by both the property owners and Councilwoman Traci Park. A proposal to move the historic home to a brand new location appears to be the best option for everyone, from the home owners to Marilyn’s fans. Marilyn Monroe’s estate also supports the proposal to physically move her former house to a new location in Los Angeles. Perhaps most importantly, this new proposed location would allow Marilyn’s many admirers to finally have a dedicated memorial to honor her beloved memory.
You can get more information and updates on the Los Angeles Conservancy website here.
📍12305 Fifth Helena Dr., Los Angeles, CA 90049