VENTURA : Pierpont Inn Expected to Be Designated a Historical Landmark

The Pierpont Inn, built in 1908 and renovated last year, is expected to be named a historical landmark today.

The Historic Preservation Commission has recommended that the Ventura City Council designate the hotel a city landmark.

“It will honor and celebrate the hotel,” said Rod Houck, president of the family corporation that owns the property at 550 San Jon Road.

The two-story wooden building, which has been renovated to a 1930s style, was built by the Pierpont family and changed owners several times before it was sold to Gus and Mattie Gleichmann for $80,000 in 1928.

By that time, the popular honeymoon spot had fallen into disrepair. The Gleichmann family restored the inn and continued to make additions over the years.

Cottages were added in the 1930s, and later the entrance and lobby were rebuilt. A cocktail lounge and bar were added in the 1940s.

The family, which still owns and operates the hotel, fought fiercely against construction of the Ventura Freeway, which generated noise and obstructed the view of the ocean.

In another major renovation, completed last year, some rooms and cottages were restored. A new rose garden and gazebo were also added.

“We wanted to maintain the integrity of the architecture while bringing a fresh new look to the Pierpont Inn,” said Houck, who married into the Gleichmann family.