Local community members will commemorate the historical significance of the Severin Grossmont Hills neighborhood this Friday (July 28) with a special ceremony.
Severin Grossmont Hills is recognized as a significant part of the history of La Mesa. The historical marker honors the foundational roots in the regions history dating back to the late 1800’s.
A dedication ceremony to commemorate the historical marker will be held on Friday at 2 p.m. on the Northeast corner of Murray and Severin Drive at the pedestrian park.
Speakers for the afternoon will include Richard Sweeney, author of La Mesa’s Severin Grossmont Hills and Vicinity and Nikki Kreibich, Realtor and community sponsor of the project.
Four years since its inception by residents in the Severin Grossmont Hills neighborhood, La Mesa Public Works has approved the installation of a small pedestrian park and historical marker. The improved landscaping and historical marker will enhance the aesthetics of the western entrance into the La Mesa Community.
“It has been a community effort from the start. It started with just a few neighbors discussing the historical significance of the area but has snowballed into a neighborhood organization dedicated to this privately funded community improvement” said Kreibich, a resident in the neighborhood.
The entirety of the project has been privately funded. Fundraising efforts by residents have sourced funds through local resident donors, the sponsorship of project pavers and proceeds from the La Mesa’s Severin Grossmont Hills and Vicinity book. Generous community sponsors including Anthony’s Fish Grotto, Beaudry Garden Design, Brigantine Seafood & Oyster Bar, Deano’s Pub, Grossmont Center, La Mesa Lumber & Hardware, Realtor Nikki Kreibich, RCP Block & Brick, and Rock & Block Hardscape Supply have made this project possible.
Historical Marker Synopsis
· In 1885, Dr. Charles Johnson, of the El Cajon Vineyard Company, purchased this area then known as El Cajon Heights located on the Western side of the El Cajon Valley.
· In 1892, Hervey Parke, co-founder of Parke-Davis Pharmaceutical Company (now part of Pfizer), purchased this area for his summer home and lemon ranch including a spring-fed reservoir (Now Anthony’s Fish Grotto pond).
· After World War II, the demand for housing led many developers to La Mesa. In 1950, the Severin Land Company purchased the eastern portion of Fletcher Hills from the Ed Fletcher Company to develop “Severin Manor” between Fletcher Parkway at its northern boundary and Amaya Drive to the south.
· In 1959 the Severin Construction Company developed “Severin Grossmont Hills”. Their model “idea home” offered a glimpse inside the “home of the future.” Because of its unique blend of architecture and suburban design, Severin Grossmont Hills is a prime example of Mid-Century Modern construction.
