Historic Context Statement

Commissioned by the City’s Planning Department in January 2024 and prepared by Historic Resources Group (HRG), this comprehensive document explores Paramount’s development from its earliest inhabitants through 1980, offering a framework for evaluating the City’s built environment within the appropriate historical, social, and architectural context. 

As the first of its kind for Paramount, the Historic Context Statement draws on primary and secondary literature review to identify key periods of growth, historical trends, and important figures, including:

• City surveys, assessments, and permits
• Historical property maps and photographs
• Archives from CSU Dominguez Hills, Paramount Historical Society, Paramount Library Local History Collection

The Historic Context Statement begins with the early Native American inhabitants, including the Tongva, Kizh, and/or Gabrielino/Gabrieliño/Gabrieleno/Gabrieleño, followed by European exploration and the Rancho Era (1784-1885), which set the stage for subsequent modern-day development. A significant period of growth from 1920 to 1940 led to the distinct communities of Clearwater and Hynes growing and collaborating, ultimately unifying in 1948 under the name Paramount and later incorporating as a municipality in 1957. 

By examining the role of both public and private properties within the context of these events, the statement provides information on potential historic resources within the City, whether protecting the integrity of existing buildings or identifying structures that may become historically significant in the future. The document illustrates development patterns and architectural styles, noting locations previously demolished in order to present a complete picture of Paramount.

Please note that historic designation is a separate outreach process that includes City Council review and public participation, and the Historic Context Statement is not intended to be a comprehensive history.  

Share your feedback!

Community feedback is crucial. Residents and stakeholders are encouraged to review the document and share their insights by emailing comments to planning@paramountcity.com by January 28, 2025. This gives residents and businesses a chance to learn about Paramount’s heritage and play an active role in telling its story.

To view the Citywide Historic Context Statement, please click here to review the document.