Speaker Series: An Art Deco Legend, The History of Bullocks Wilshire | May 3

Monday, May 3, 2021 — 12:00 pm

Eric Evavold treats us to stories and rare archival photos of this iconic Los Angeles landmark

Just a few blocks east of our historic campus is another of Wilshire Boulevard’s architectural treasures, once a shopping paradise to many an Ebell member of the past. Steeped in the glamour of another era, the destination for celebrities and fashion connoisseurs of its time, the building remains a stunning, beautifully crafted Art Deco masterpiece.

As its official Honorary Ambassador and Tour Guide, Eric Evavold (dubbed “Mr. Bullocks Wilshire”) will bring the Bullocks Wilshire store back to life for us for one special afternoon, beginning with its history as one of the first department stores to cater to the automobile culture.

An LA native, Eric has been interested in our city’s history since age 13, and has spent 30 years leading tours–Heritage Square, LA Conservancy’s Broadway theaters, Union Station and now the Museum of Neon Art among them. As Board VP of MONA he is also busy leading neon cruises and saving historic neon signs.

For the finale, our costume committee will show Bullocks Wilshire fashions in the Ebell collection. Be ready for the “Hershey Kiss” hat!