Elvis Honeymoon Hideaway rose to fame in 1967
PALM SPRINGS — A recent case before the Palm Springs City Council didn’t get much attention or even make the headlines, but it was important nonetheless. In a roundabout way, it implied three words: Elvis Honeymoon Hideaway.
Councilors have approved a Historic Mills Act Property Preservation Agreement between the City of Palm Springs and Daniel E. Bridge, owner of the famous Alexander-built ‘House of Tomorrow’, also known as the ‘Elvis Honeymoon Hideaway’ , 1350 Ladera Circle.
The futuristic Vista Las Palmas abode is undoubtedly a stylish mid-century home. But he also holds a special place in the history of rock ‘n’ roll. The house is where Elvis and Priscilla Presley went after their secret wedding in 1967.
Ironically, famous residents aren’t what helped qualify the property for the Mills Act deal. The law has been called California’s largest economic incentive program for the restoration and preservation of qualified historic buildings by private owners.
In September, the City Council designated the property at 1350 Ladera Circle as a Class 1 Historic Site by passing Resolution No. 24942. Under California government code, a city’s legislature may contract
with the owner to restrict the use of the property in order to achieve historic preservation objectives of the property. Such a contract is commonly referred to as a “Mills Act Agreement”. It provides for possible alternative property tax rate calculations in exchange for specific and ongoing preservation and maintenance of the property, particularly its historically significant features and features. Approval of the contract may result in a decrease in the property tax collected for the property.
Although singer and actor Elvis Presley and his wife Priscilla rented the house for a brief period in 1967 and spent their honeymoon there, that event in itself does not constitute a significant contribution by this criterion.
The Alexander Residence is of exceptional historical significance because of its association with the architect William Krisel, its association with Robert Alexander, a person of local significance, as a unique example of architecture of the mid-20th century period , and because it reflects unique construction characteristics.
The house is historically significant for its association with the lives of Robert and Helene Alexander. Robert Alexander and his father George ran the Alexander Development Company, credited with transforming Palm Springs from an enclave of wealthy industrialists and movie industry notables into an accessible middle-class vacation and retirement community. Both Robert and Helene were active in community affairs and philanthropy.
Fans of Elvis, the king of rock’n’roll, as well as fans of architecture benefit from it.
Image Sources
- Elvis Honeymoon Hideaway: Shutterstock
