Charles H. Plummer was one of the architects who shaped Long Beach, CA. He was part of the building boom that occurred in Long Beach in the 1920’s and his work lives on today. His work throughout the 1920s shaped downtown and continues to have an impact today.
Plummer’s work significantly influenced the architectural heritage of Long Beach. His designs, characterized by a blend of classical and revival styles, contributed to the city’s early 20th-century aesthetic. Plummer’s buildings are not only architecturally significant but also hold historical value, reflecting the growth and development of Long Beach during that era.
Early Life
Charles H. Plummer was born in 1879 in New York. We were not able to locate information on his early life. What we were able to discover is that he aspired to be an architect ealy. He was inspired by buildings and structures.
Education
Like the architects of today he pursued a formal education to become an architect. The school that Plummer chose to attend for his formal education was the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), where he earned a degree in architecture. His education at MIT provided him with a solid foundation in architectural principles and design, which would later influence his work.
Architectural Career
After completing his education, Plummer moved to California, where he eventually settled in Long Beach. It’s likely he moved to Long Beach, CA because of the real estate boom that was taking place during the 1920’s. His decision proved to be wise as he was behind many notable projects in Long Beach.
Impact on Long Beach Real Estate
The buildings he was behind in Long Beach greatly impact the skyline and the look of downtown. We are going to highlight several of his contributions to the Long Beach skyline. We would encourage you to visit these buildings, even if just to see the outside, on your next visit to Long Beach, CA.
Cooper Arms
Cooper Arms is probably one of his most famous buildings. He also worked with fellow architect Charles W. Gibbs on this building. The building’s Renaissance Revival style is evident in its detailed ornamentation, arched windows, and elegant proportions. The Cooper Arms was one of the first high-rise buildings in Long Beach and played a significant role in the city’s development as a fashionable residential area.
The Broadlind Hotel
This building is still in use today. Residents of Long Beach or visitors to the city will know it as the “Historic Broadlind Hotel”. It is located at 149 Linden and within .6 miles of the Long Beach convention center. It was originally built in 1928 and has a Spanish Colonial Revival style.
The hotel has been a prominent fixture in the East Village Arts District of Long Beach, adding to the area’s historic charm.
The Willmore Building
Built in 1927 and located at 315 West 3rd Street this is another building that has stood the test of time. It was at one time a luxury hotel and now it is a luxury apartment building.
This Beaux-Arts style building features elaborate detailing, grand entrances, and a sophisticated aesthetic. It has served various purposes over the years and remains a significant landmark in Long Beach.
Legacy
Plummer continued to work as an architect in Long Beach until his later years. His legacy lives on through the buildings he designed, many of which are preserved as historical landmarks, ensuring that his contributions to the city’s architectural landscape are remembered and appreciated.