Claremont Heritage Reaches Out for Help with Garner Home

The Claremont Heritage group has kicked off a capital campaign effort to raise several hundred thousand dollars to fund the restoration of the city’s historic Garner House.

Titled "Our House,' the campaign aims to raise $250,000 over the next four years, Heriage officials said in a Facebook posting.

“The kick-off event (on Dec. 3) was where it was announced that nearly $90,000 had been raised so far,” officials wrote.

The organization is selling pavers. Officials say $100 buys a courtyard paver that would a name, $250 or more helps the furnishing and fixtures fund, $2,000 can sponsor a small room and $5,000 a large room.

Donors can help remodel the kitchen or rebuild the tower for $10,000, officials said. It’s possible to take the four years to fulfill your pledge, Heritage members said.

“That is only $42 a month for a $2,000 pledge, or $105 a month for a $5,000 pledge,” officials wrote.

The home was designed by Los Angeles architect Arthur Munson and was built in 1926-27 by Bess and Herman Garner, according to the Heritage’s website. Both were Pomona College graduates. Herman Garner was a successful businessman and inventor of an air cleaner for truck engines, according to the site. Bess Garner was a history buff, an author, chair of the school board and very active in community affairs.

At one time the house had 15 rooms and six bathrooms but only three bathrooms remain, officials said.

For more information on how to contribute call (909) 621-0848.