The Hotel Carver, Historic Victorian building in Old Pasadena, United States.
The Hotel Carver is a three-story Victorian building on South Fair Oaks Avenue featuring characteristic architectural details from the 1880s era. The structure displays the ornamental elements and proportions typical of that period, though modifications in the 1950s altered some of its original features.
The building dates to the 1880s and later became a significant community establishment. In the 1940s, Percy Carter and his family purchased the property and opened the first Black-owned hotel in the city.
The basement served as a nightclub venue for performances and social gatherings, while the upper floors hosted dining and community events for Black residents and visitors.
The building is located in Old Pasadena's historic district and is easily accessible on foot from nearby attractions and restaurants. Visitors should note that the space functions as an active community venue, so some areas may have limited access depending on events or programming.
From 1970 to 1985, the building served as an arts center housing more than 100 artists and creative professionals in studios and workshop spaces. This period transformed it into a vibrant cultural hub that marked a distinct chapter in its later life.
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