The Los Angeles City Council unanimously voted to designate Marilyn Monroe’s former home, where she sadly died in 1962, as a historic and cultural landmark. This action effectively halts any intentions to demolish the property and secures its place in history. Councilwoman Traci Park spearheaded the move to begin consideration of Monroe’s Spanish Colonial-style house in Brentwood for historic preservation, which was unanimously approved the same day.
Monroe, who had spent part of her life in an institution and foster care, had never owned a home on her own
The decision was welcomed with relief and excitement by Monroe’s followers throughout the world, who had been concerned about losing a key piece of Hollywood history. The city’s Board of Building and Safety Commissioners acted quickly to withdraw a demolition permit given just a day before, emphasizing the city’s desire to safeguard this historical treasure. (yellowtail.tech) Furthermore, the City Council action forbids major changes to the property while its prospective designation as a landmark is being considered.
Monroe’s ties to this single-story, 2,900-square-foot home extend beyond celebrity ownership. According to the Los Angeles Times, she paid $75,000 for the home after her third marriage to writer Arthur Miller ended. Monroe, who had spent part of her life in an institution and foster care, had never owned a home on her own. The great actress, well known for her roles in classic films such as Gentlemen Prefer Blondes, Some Like It Hot, and The Misfits, died in a bedroom of this house in August 1962, at the age of 36. Her death was concluded to be due to acute barbiturate intoxication.
The half-acre property, which includes a swimming pool and a guest house, had changed hands multiple times before the current intervention. Glory of the Snow LLC, which was previously managed by a hedge fund executive, purchased it in 2017 for $7.25 million. It was sold earlier this year for $8.35 million to the Glory of the Snow Trust.