City Council Considers Historic Designation for 500 Nassau Street South Home

The Venice Historic and Architectural Preservation Board convened on August 28, 2025, to discuss a significant nomination for the local register of historic places. The focus was on the property located at 500 Nassau Street South, which is proposed for recognition due to its historical significance and architectural style.

The public hearing opened with no conflicts of interest reported among board members. Historical Resources Manager, Harry Klinkhammer, presented the case for the property, built in 1927 by notable builder Graham Walker. The home is designed in the Mediterranean Revival style, a popular architectural choice during that era.

The nomination is spearheaded by the property owners, Michael and Alice Jeromen, who are seeking to honor the house's connection to Venice's history. Klinkhammer outlined the criteria for nomination, emphasizing its significance in the city's past and its distinctive architectural characteristics. While the property is eligible under multiple criteria, it primarily meets the requirement of being significant in the city's history.

The discussion highlighted the home's connection to prominent individuals from the 1920s, including Prentice French, who was associated with the property during its early years. Klinkhammer noted that the house was featured in local newspapers at the time, underscoring its relevance to the community's historical narrative.

As the board deliberates on this nomination, the outcome could pave the way for further preservation efforts in Venice, ensuring that the architectural heritage of the area is recognized and maintained for future generations. The next steps will involve a recommendation to the city council, which will ultimately decide on the property's inclusion in the local historic register.