View Park–Windsor Hills: A Legacy of Affluence and Architectural Grandeur
An academic exploration into the unique history, vibrant culture, and distinctive demographics of Los Angeles's esteemed unincorporated communities.
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Introduction
Defining the Community
View Park–Windsor Hills represents an unincorporated community situated within the expansive Los Angeles County, California. This distinct area is geographically segmented into two primary neighborhoods: View Park, which encompasses the vicinity surrounding Angeles Vista Boulevard, and Windsor Hills, located to the south, immediately north of Slauson Avenue.
A Beacon of Affluence
Historically and presently, View Park–Windsor Hills stands as one of the most affluent predominantly African-American neighborhoods in the United States. It forms a significant segment of a larger, geographically contiguous corridor of historically Black communities in the Western United States, extending from Culver City's Fox Hills district westward to the Los Angeles neighborhood of Leimert Park. This esteemed corridor also includes Baldwin Hills and the unincorporated community of Ladera Heights.
Growth and Evolution
The development of this area spanned from 1923 to 1970, establishing its unique character over several decades. According to the 2020 United States census, the community recorded a population of 11,419. Furthermore, by the end of 2020, View Park–Windsor Hills was recognized as the leading community among the top 10 richest Black communities in the U.S., boasting an average family income of $159,168. While maintaining its predominantly African-American identity, the area is currently experiencing a demographic shift, with an increasing influx of new homeowners, primarily White or Asian families, drawn by its proximity to major employment hubs such as Culver City, Downtown Los Angeles, and Santa Monica.
Historical Foundations
View Park's Genesis
The View Park neighborhood was meticulously developed between 1923 and 1970 by the esteemed Los Angeles Investment Company, the same developers responsible for the prestigious Hancock Park in Los Angeles. Conceived as an upper-class residential area, View Park is renowned for its exquisite collection of houses and mansions. These residences showcase a rich tapestry of architectural styles, including Spanish Colonial Revival, Spanish Colonial, Mid Century, and Mediterranean Revival, many of which are remarkably preserved to this day.
Windsor Hills' Development
Windsor Hills emerged as a planned community in the late 1930s, spearheaded by the Marlow-Burns Development Company. This subdivision holds historical significance as the first in Southern California to receive mortgage insurance from the newly established Federal Housing Administration (FHA). Its architectural landscape features a blend of Spanish Colonial Revival, minimal traditional, and Mediterranean Revival styles. A critical historical note is that African-Americans were initially prohibited from residing in either View Park or Windsor Hills due to racial restrictive covenants, a discriminatory practice that was ultimately invalidated by a landmark Supreme Court decision in 1948.
Architectural Design
Distinctive Styles
The architectural character of View Park–Windsor Hills is a testament to its planned development and the prevailing aesthetic trends of the mid-20th century. The area boasts a remarkable concentration of homes and mansions reflecting several prominent styles:
- Spanish Colonial Revival Style: Characterized by stucco walls, red tile roofs, arched doorways, and decorative ironwork, evoking a sense of old-world charm.
- Spanish Colonial: A more direct interpretation of early Spanish architecture in the Americas.
- Mid Century: Featuring clean lines, open floor plans, and a focus on functionality and integration with nature, often seen in the later phases of development.
- Mediterranean Revival Style: Similar to Spanish Colonial Revival but often incorporating broader European influences.
- Minimal Traditional: Simpler, more modest homes often built in the post-war era, emphasizing practicality.
Notable Architectural Contributions
The community's architectural integrity is further enhanced by the contributions of numerous distinguished architects. Beyond the Los Angeles Investment Company, whose influence is foundational, the area features works by Postle & Postle, R. F. Ruck, Paul Haynes, Leopold Fischer, H. Roy Kelley, Raphael Soriano, Charles W. Wong, Robert Earl, M.C. Drebbin, Vincent Palmer, Theodore Pletsch, and Homer C. Valentine. Intriguingly, it is widely rumored that the renowned African-American architect Paul Williams designed several homes in View Park, with one specific residence at 4351 Mount Vernon Drive being officially documented as his work.
Demographic Profile
Population Overview
For statistical analysis, the United States Census Bureau designates View Park–Windsor Hills as a census-designated place (CDP). The 2020 census reported a total population of 11,419 residents within this area, with a population density of approximately 6,200 individuals per square mile (2,400 per km2). The community's total area spans 1.842 square miles (4.771 km2), almost entirely consisting of land.
Economic Standing
View Park–Windsor Hills consistently ranks among the most affluent African-American communities in the United States. As of the end of 2020, it held the top position among the 10 richest Black communities, with an impressive average family income of $159,168. This economic prosperity underscores the community's enduring legacy and desirability.
Racial and Ethnic Composition (2000-2020)
The following table illustrates the evolving racial and ethnic composition of View Park-Windsor Hills CDP, highlighting shifts over two decades. It's important to note that the U.S. Census treats Hispanic/Latino as an ethnic category, separate from racial classifications.
Arts & Culture
National Historic Recognition
A significant cultural milestone for the community occurred on July 12, 2016, when View Park was officially listed on the National Register of Historic Places. This monumental achievement was largely driven by the View Park Conservancy, an initiative that saw nearly 700 local residents contribute over $100,000 to fund the extensive historical research and documentation required for the nomination. View Park now holds the distinction of being the largest National Register historic district in the country based on African American and county history, and the largest in California in terms of total property owners, underscoring its profound historical and cultural importance.
Community Library
Library services for the community are proudly provided by the County of Los Angeles Public Library's View Park Library. This local institution is notably named in honor of the late writer Bebe Moore Campbell, a cherished resident of the community, reflecting her literary legacy and connection to the area.
Local Landmarks
View Park–Windsor Hills is home to several distinctive landmarks that contribute to its unique character:
- Ray Charles Residence: Located at 4863 Southridge Avenue, this home was built in 1965 and was the residence of the legendary musician Ray Charles.
- The Wich Stand (Simply Wholesome): Originally a Googie-style diner, this iconic establishment at Slauson Avenue and Overhill Avenue is now known as Simply Wholesome, a popular community hub.
- The Doumakes House: Situated at Angeles Vista Boulevard and West Boulevard, this residence holds the distinction of being the first historic landmark in unincorporated Los Angeles County.
Community Services
Public Safety
Law enforcement services, including patrol, are primarily delivered by the Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department, operating out of its Marina Del Rey station with a dedicated substation located in the Ladera shopping center. Deputy Sheriffs are also responsible for traffic enforcement and frequently serve as first responders to vehicle accidents and Fire/EMS calls. Traffic law enforcement for this unincorporated area is additionally provided by the California Highway Patrol (CHP) from its West LA Area Office in Culver City. Furthermore, the Los Angeles Unified School District Police maintain jurisdiction over the LAUSD elementary school campuses within the community.
Health & Governance
Health services for View Park–Windsor Hills are facilitated by the Los Angeles County Department of Health Services SPA 6 South Area Health Office, specifically through the Ruth-Temple Health Center in Los Angeles. In terms of political representation, the community falls within California's 28th State Senate District, currently represented by Democrat Lola Smallwood-Cuevas, and the 55th State Assembly District, represented by Democrat Isaac Bryan. Federally, View Park–Windsor Hills is part of California's 37th congressional district, with Sydney Kamlager-Dove, a Democrat, serving as its representative.
Educational Landscape
The community is primarily served by the Los Angeles Unified School District (LAUSD), though a portion also falls within the Inglewood Unified School District. Elementary schools serving the LAUSD segment include 54th Street Elementary School (K-5), Cowan Elementary School (1-5), and Windsor Math/Science/Aerospace Magnet (K-5, with kindergarten being the only zoned grade). For secondary education, all LAUSD areas are zoned to Audubon Middle School, Crenshaw High School, and View Park Preparatory High School. Some areas have joint zoning to additional middle schools like Daniel Webster Middle School and Orville Wright Middle School, and high schools such as Westchester High School. View Park Preparatory High School also functions as a central school for the View Park neighborhood, operating as an urban preparatory school in partnership with LAUSD.
Parks & Recreation
Green Spaces and Trails
View Park–Windsor Hills offers residents ample opportunities for outdoor activity and relaxation. The community's primary green space is Rueben Ingold Park, which opened on August 17, 1971. This park is conveniently adjacent to the Kenneth Hahn State Recreation Area, with a newly established Stocker Trail Corridor pathway connecting the two, enhancing accessibility for pedestrians and cyclists. Additionally, the challenging incline of Valley Ridge Avenue hill is a popular spot for residents engaging in exercise and fitness activities. The area is also part of the broader Park to Playa Trail network, further integrating it into Los Angeles County's extensive recreational infrastructure.
Notable Residents
Prominent Figures
View Park–Windsor Hills has been a cherished home to a diverse array of influential individuals across various fields, including entertainment, sports, and politics. This rich tapestry of residents reflects the community's appeal and its role as a hub for accomplished professionals. Among the notable figures who have resided here are:
- Ermias Joseph Asghedom (Nipsey Hussle), recording artist.
- Angelle Brooks, actress.
- Charles Burnett, filmmaker and director.
- Laphonza Butler, U.S. Senator and former president of EMILY's List.
- Bebe Moore Campbell, novelist.
- Ray Charles (1930–2004), iconic singer.
- James Cleveland (1931–1991), gospel singer, arranger, and composer.
- Michael Cooper, former NBA player and WNBA head coach.
- Loretta Devine, actress.
- Curt Flood, former professional baseball player.
- Lita Gaithers, Tony Award-nominated playwright, singer/songwriter.
- Jester Hairston, composer, arranger, and actor.
- Lisa Gay Hamilton, actress.
- Louis Johnson, baseball player.
- Robert Kardashian, attorney.
- Regina King, Academy Award-winning actress and television director.
- Mike Love, musician, founding member of the Beach Boys.
- Stan Love, former NBA player, brother of Mike Love.
- Marilyn McCoo, singer.
- Meghan, Duchess of Sussex, retired actress, member of the British Royal Family.
- Doria Ragland, mother of Meghan, Duchess of Sussex.
- Issa Rae, writer, actress, and television producer.
- Leslie Sykes, KABC-TV news co-anchor.
- Ike & Tina Turner, recording duo.
- Clara Ward (1924–1973), gospel singer.
- Dave Waymer, NFL football player.
- Gerald Wilson, jazz composer, arranger, conductor.
- Nancy Wilson, vocalist.
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References
References
- View Park Conservancy
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Important Notice
This page was generated by an Artificial Intelligence and is intended for informational and educational purposes only. The content is based on a snapshot of publicly available data from Wikipedia and may not be entirely accurate, complete, or up-to-date.
This is not professional advice. The information provided on this website regarding community demographics, real estate, historical significance, or local services is not a substitute for professional consultation in urban planning, real estate, legal matters, or any other specialized field. Always refer to official government sources, local authorities, and consult with qualified professionals for specific needs or decisions related to community living, property, or public services. Never disregard professional advice because of something you have read on this website.
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