Threatened: Historic Wintersburg, Huntington Beach, California

Wintersburg Presbyterian Church, Huntington Beach, California.  Photo found at O.C. Roundup.

California's agrarian landscape is steeped in diverse community histories that tell of immigration, perseverance, and sacrifice.  Leaving one's homeland for a strange land has always been met with trepidation, but for those who survived, their stories are priceless. Historic Wintersburg has become an invaluable resource for telling the story of Japanese emigrants adjusting to a new land, yet its survival is threatened by rezoning and demolition. "It is the sole remaining Japanese-owned, pre Alien Land Law property," writes Mary Urashima of the Historic Wintursburg's Blogspot, "and one of the rare Japanese historic properties left in Orange County." 
Supporters of its preservation have started YouTube and Facebook pages for public awareness.  Even the City of Huntington Beach is encouraging its preservation.  Despite state and nationwide interest, Historic Wintersburg's fate is uncertain.
UPDATE: The Orange County Register recently announced that the owner of the property will not demolish the buildings, at least for now.  The property owner, Republic Services, is working with local preservationists to consider possible options.  The work begins, as reported by the Huntington Beach Independent.

Green: Haas-Lilienthal House, San Francisco, CA.

Haas-Lilienthal House Museum, Photo found at BAC [A+P]

The National Trust for Historic Preservation has recognized the Haas-Lilienthal House as one of America's National Treasures; a new campaign to save historic places of national significance.  Built in 1886, the Queen Anne home "conveys the role of Jewish immigrants in the development of the American West."  It is also becoming a role model for urban house museums by developing a sustainable management plan that follows "green" initiatives, including maintenance practices, capital improvements, and seeking out increased relevance to today's visitors.  Spearheaded by architect, historian, and planner, Barbara Campagna and the museum's management, SF Heritage, the team will strive for a "net zero" or LEED Gold certification.  For California's historic buildings, this can mean the difference between struggling through long-term challenges or a thriving future.

Update:  Staff at the National Trust for Historic Preservation had some fun seeking out San Francisco's Hidden Gems, including the Haas-Lilienthal House.  Take a look at their adventure through many of San Francisco's unique neighborhoods and places, then consider following it for a different view of the City.