The Council of Independent Colleges: Historic Campus Architecture Project

Grove House

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Grove House (view of surrounding arboretum), Pitzer College

Institution Name: Pitzer College
Original/Historic Place Name: Grove House
Location on Campus: NE part of campus
Date(s) of Construction:

1902	original construction
1977	relocation to Pitzer college campus

Designer: unknown
Type of Place: Individual building
Style: Other (Glossary)
Significance: architecture, culture, history
Narrative: see below
References: see below

Materials:

Foundation: stone

Walls: lath and plaster

Roof: wood shingle

Function:

1902-1977	private residence
1977-present (2006)	museum (Hinshaw Art Gallery)
1977-present (2006)	other (social center)

Narrative:
Originally built as the home of a Claremont citrus grower, the Grove House was saved from potential demolition by moving it to the Pitzer College, north of Mead Hall, in 1977. Here at Pitzer, the house has a new lease on life, serving as a campus social center. Built in 1902, during the height of what has been termed the American Arts and Crafts movement, it is an impressive architectural example of the California bungalow style, characteristic of that period.

Restored and furnished in a manner appropriate to its heritage, the Grove House provides students and faculty with comfortable spaces to meet, study, or have lunch. Other spaces in the house include the Ecology Center, the Bert Meyers Poetry Room, the Hinshaw Art Gallery, a women's center, a guest room, and a meeting room. The house also regularly hosts a variety of events, including poetry readings and musical performances.

References: