Sydney J. Smith Home

1985 HERITAGE AWARD RECIPIENT

The Redlands Area Historical Society, Inc.

Sydney J. Smith Home

460 W. Highland Ave

(1910)

Although little is known today about Sydney J. Smith, owner of a State Street book, art, and stationery store, it may be assumed he had an eye for classic beauty. In 1910, with the help of architect F. Garvin Hodson and contractor Frank W. Moore, Smith built a solid neo-classic home in south Redlands. The result was the proud brick-faced two-story home at 460 W. Highland.

Built for the then considerable sum of $5,000.00. the Smith home represents one of Redlands’ few examples of Late Colonial style. Through the use of near symmetrical design and simple architectural elements, the home has an air of understated elegance and formality. Entry is made via a formal porch adorned with twin columns and a broad plain pediment. Twin carriage lanterns and multi-paned French doors flank the porch to either side of the entry. This symmetry is retained on the second story through the use of three shuttered windows centered above the doors. A low-swept gable dormer atop the roof. centered above the entry, completes the effect. The half-moon shape of the dormer window is echoed in the upper windows and the rear and side gables.

Formally landscaped grounds surrounding the home complement its architecture. The attention paid to the maintenance of the neatly trimmed hedges and plantings attest to the pride and care the present owners, James and Karen Dunn have shown in their property.

Interestingly, past residents have evidenced a similar affection. Frank W. Moore, Smith’s contractor, was so taken with the home he purchased it from Smith in 1917. His daughter, Barbara, still remembers the planting in 1926, of the deodar cedar in the front yard.

The Redlands Area Historical society is proud to honor this unique example of Redlands’ heritage and to commend the stewardship of its present owners.