West Adams

West Adams is a historic residential neighborhood in South Los Angeles containing numerous mansions and houses built between 1880 and 1925. These structures showcase Victorian, Queen Anne, and Gothic Revival architectural styles as a cohesive collection from that era.

The neighborhood was developed by railroad magnate Henry E. Huntington and industrialist Hulett C. Merritt, becoming the city's most affluent area in the early 1900s. The district's growth was driven by rail expansion, which opened the area to wealthy residents seeking grand homes.

After the 1940s, this neighborhood became a thriving center for African American prosperity and attracted notable figures including Academy Award winner Hattie McDaniel. The historic homes remain important to the community today, reflecting the enduring legacy of this period.

The neighborhood connects easily to downtown Los Angeles through public transportation and sits near major educational institutions like the University of Southern California. Visitors can explore the area on foot, with many streets and green spaces inviting a leisurely walk.

The neighborhood contains the only remaining Greene and Greene designed residence in Los Angeles, part of a collection of roughly 70 historical and cultural landmarks. This specialized architecture showcases a local design style recognized around the world.

Location: Los Angeles

Shares border with: West Adams Heights, Los Angeles

GPS coordinates: 34.03278,-118.30028

Latest update: December 6, 2025 21:30