Other San Diego Historical Society publications

The George White and Anna Gunn Marston House
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The George White and Anna Gunn Marston House is an important symbol of San Diego history. It was the home of George W. Marston, a successful businessman and important community leader, who still serves as a meaningful role model for San Diego today. Marston's department store, once the city's largest and most prestigious is now remembered by only a few. Yet Marston, as the founder of the San Diego Historical Society, creator of Presidio Park and Anza-Borrego Desert State Park, and sponsor of the town's first professional city plan is remembered by many. He introduced the idea of balancing environmenntal concerns with urban growth and development.

Architecturally, the Marston House is significant as an early and important work of San Diegan Irving J. Gill, one of the most prominent architects of the early twentieth century. An early example of the Craftsman style, the house reflects both Marston's and Gill's commitment to newer, more innovative design. Within a few years the style and design concepts - simplicity, beauty, and efficiency - embodied in the Marston House became widely accepted and could be found in houses of all sizes and prices.

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