On Sunday, August 10 at 10 AM, Long Beach Heritage as part of their Summer of Architecture Series will unlock the doors to a rare gem: a fully restored Miner Smith bungalow mansion in Belmont Heights. This guided tour— takes you into the history and the creative mind of Miner R. Smith, the visionary craftsman who created one of Long Beach’s architectural identity in the roaring 1920s.
Smith didn’t build ordinary homes—he crafted “Bungalow Mansions”, unique residences that blurred the line between elegant escape and bold architectural statement. His designs featured fanciful concrete planters and fountains sculpted to mimic tree bark, ogee arches, built-in wooden furniture, and fireplaces framed like stage sets. Think of his houses as immersive environments—handmade, ornate, and full of hidden detail.(BHCALB)
Two standout homes in Belmont Heights are celebrated examples. The first, built in 1920, was advertised as a “splendid seven‑room bungalow” with porches on three sides and a water-lighted fountain shaped like a tree trunk topped by a fish—now long lost, but still whispered about. The second features a whimsical Hansel-and‑Gretel fireplace, stained-glass accents, and cast-concrete planters designed as carved trees.(BHCALB)
Attendees will hear Norbert Schürer, CSULB professor and author of Boom and Bust: Miner Smith and His 1920s California Bungalow Mansions, tell the story. He’ll point out Smith’s signature touches—planters hugging porch edges, pillars carved like wood logs, built-in bookcases that feel like customized jewelry boxes. Then you’ll step inside this home—into living and dining rooms anchored with carved fireplaces and original wooden built-ins.(BHCALB)
This is an experience designed for architectural lovers, preservation advocates, and anyone who cares about cultural continuity. Belmont Heights itself is a living museum of Craftsman architecture, filled with quietly gorgeous homes built between 1905–1939. Miner Smith’s designs stand out not just for their craftsmanship, but for being one of those unique Long Beach things.
Event Details:
📍 Belmont Heights (specific address disclosed to registrants)
📅 Sunday, August 10 ⏰ 10:00 AM
🎟 Seats are extremely limited—reserve early through Long Beach Heritage
Event is part of Long Beach Heritage’s Summer of Architecture Series.
These homes survive today thanks to restoration-minded owners and landmark protections adopted by the city. Today you get an insider’s look into what makes a Miner Smith home not just historic, but transcendent.(BHCALB, Eventbrite)
With refreshments and conversation to follow the presentation
Featured Image via LB Heritage IG
