Old Mission Plaza, 1905-1963

1894, View of Our Lady of Los Angeles Church with its stucco and stone structure featuring a prominent bell tower on the left. A horse-drawn carriage is stationed in front of the church, while a brick house with dormers is visible on the right. The tall clock tower on Fort Moore Hill in the background is Los Angeles High School, built in 1891, at its second location. The bell tower was replaced by a "bell wall" around 1901 which we see today. The Old Plaza Church was one of the first three sites designated as Historic-Cultural Monuments by the City of Los Angeles and has been recognized as a California Historical Landmark.  Thanks to Jack Feldman.

1900, View of the Old Mission Church from across the LA Plaza.  Several men are seen relaxing on the Plaza benches.  In the background on top of Fort Moore Hill stands Los Angeles High School.

1905, View of the Los Angeles Plaza, Looking West (1905).  Thank you to Historical Los Angeles USA.  Posted Tuesday, January 28, 2025.

In 1905, the Los Angeles Plaza was the heart of the city, surrounded by historic adobe structures and shaded by large trees. The plaza served as a gathering place for residents, hosting markets, events, and social activities. Looking west, the scene reflected a blend of early Californian and Spanish influences, showcasing LA’s roots as a pueblo. This historic square remained a symbol of the city’s cultural heritage, preserving its legacy amidst the growing metropolis.

1963, First Annual Concourse, Box 15 Club, Old Plaza Fire House, June 23, 1963.

Thanks to LAPL for this pic above.Visitors crowd around old-time fire equipment shown at the First Annual Concourse, sponsored by Box 15 Club, at the Old Plaza Fire House. Photo dated: June 23, 1963. Source: LAPL.

Circa 1925 The Plaza Church on Main Street across from the Plaza and Olvera Street.  Behind the streetcar is the Hotel Pacific, the office of Philip Morici & Company, "Agencia Italiana," and the grocery store of Giovanni Piume, who also made wine (Piuma Road in Malibu was named for him.)  The area north of the Plaza was at this time an Italian neighborhood.