Bluff Park Neighborhood Association

Lampposts create charm, nostalgia, a sense of place and time. The Bluff Park Historic Lamppost Project reflects the intrigue and draw of a uniquely symbolic feature in the public right of way. Most of streets no longer have decorative lampposts, although photographic evidence and plans show they once existed and/or were intended more broadly. The vision of BPNA's Historic Lamppost Project is to remove uncharacteristic modern street lights in the Bluff Park Historic District and install historically appropriate lampposts matching the look and pattern of the late-1920s E. 1st Street lampposts. After uncovering the sketch of the E. 1st Street lights, the BPNA reached out to the original manufacturer still in-business today. Now the company is making the Project's lampposts from the same old specifications.

The inaugural, pilot phase in 2019 of 10 newly installed lampposts with their 80 plaques was achieved through collaboration, community engagement, volunteerism, patience, perseverance and grassroots fundraising. 2021 marked the second phase installation and the third phase is funded and proceeding with a dedication ceremony this year, thanks to the scores of donors big and small. Now seeking further funding, commitment, and initiative among the community, the BPNA is working towards the next phases in fulfillment of the entire District. Mentor, matriarch and Preservationist of the Year Helena Segelhorst continually reminds us, "It's doable!" And, it is!

The Project has helped forge strong community relations between the BPNA and local businesses, neighborhood associations, preservation organizations and workers and leaders throughout the City of Long Beach.

TOGETHER WE ARE BRINGING LAMPPOST HISTORY BACK

Testimonials

Historical Society of Long Beach says, "BPNA has resolved to bring vintage lampposts back where they once stood, to enhance their neighborhood's sense of place, history and camaraderie."

Long Beach City Mayor Robert Garcia called it "such a great community project. It's a citywide project for all to enjoy!"

"What better way to honor loved ones than to add beauty and light to our community." - Doroles Kneece

"The Bluff Park Neighborhood Association's Lamppost Project goes far beyond an improvement or beautification project. It preserves the historic cultural fabric of the community. As a fourth generation member of a Long Beach family, that's important to us and why we enthusiastically support the project." - Rick & Brad Seeley

Gretchen Swanson, President of Rose Park Neighborhood Association, wrote, "The Bluff Park project is a great and noteworthy example. Residents developed an idea, worked with the city departments and proposed a project - which they raised funds for - that conformed to the city's regulations and watchful eyes of city staff."

Kim Van Natta, long-time resident of Long Beach wrote, "As a 16+ year resident on 1st Street in Bluff Park, we have admired and appreciated the historical lamp posts on that street. We strongly encourage to extend these beautiful lamp posts beyond 1st Street throughout the rest of Bluff Park! It will continue to define and outline the Bluff Park Historical district in a positive way. The neighborhood fund raising and support has been amazing, clearly demonstrating the dedication and commitment to this project. Now as a resident of the East Village Neighborhood, I continue to drive through Bluff Park and was excited to see Phase 1 of the newly installed lamp posts up and shining brightly.... It is an important and significant addition to the city of Long Beach!"