Rhea-Frances Tetley
Historian
Two red rock pillars that previously formed an archway welcoming visitors into the Atkins development flank the entrance into Arrowhead Villas. The red rocks were brought from a Big Bear quarry. Similar rocks were brought from Big Bear to create the red rock wall scenic turnout originally to honor Highway engineer E.Q. Sullivan and now recognizes stonemason Donald S. Wiemen, a 33-year Caltrans worker.
The Arrowhead Villas was begun by the Atkins Realty Company in 1926. Arrowhead Villas, which are on the hillside south of Lake Arrowhead, was one of many developments built in the mountains during the Roaring 20s’ economic boom, adjacent to the High Gear Road about to be constructed.
The two red rock pillars that mark the entrance to Arrowhead Villas, an area with a charming or notorious past, depending on whom you ask.
In describing its search for property, the Atkins Company wrote: “The first place the company searched was Lake Arrowhead, which was reputed to be the finest playground in California… drawn by its unmatchable beauty, which stood out far above any other place. They realized that the Lake Arrowhead vicinity would produce for their clients the greatest returns in enjoyment and increased property values than anywhere in Southern California. They found the ‘ideal’ site, which fit exactly with their plans for the creation of the most beautiful mountain recreational center in Southern California. It was then owned by the Fleming family, but it wasn’t for sale…. After seeing that the proposed plans would be in keeping with the high standards at Lake Arrowhead, they consented to sell.” (With later alleged gangster connections, some have wondered whether strongly persuasive tactics might have been utilized.)
The welcoming red rock pillar plaque states: “1926 Arrowhead Villas & Arrowhead Villas Club, Developed by the Atkins Corporation. W. Markowitz – President, J.F. Simons – Sec-Treas.” Arrowhead Villas was a high-quality modern resort with a gas station, barbershop, market, soda fountain, icehouse and stables.
Club Arrowhead in the Pines, now known as the Tudor House, was originally the Atkins development’s clubhouse. It is a quarter-mile north of the highway. It had the best custom interior arched ceiling woodwork that gave it an old English feel and its amenities included the large fireplace made of local rocks. And it has its own notorious gangster, prohibition drinking and gambling stories to believe … or not.
It’s alleged that Bugsy Siegel, in 1929, before he was involved in Las Vegas development, was involved with Club Arrowhead of the Pines, which included a lodge, pool, bathhouse, brothel and a speakeasy featuring gambling. It’s said there w
A close-up of the words on the plaque.
as a “gas pump” that could fill up extra tanks in a car … full of gin. They say the speakeasy produced quality gin from pure artesian well water, which also filled the pool. The water was the area’s appeal.
Another landmark is the Bracken Fern Manor, a former brothel more recently referred to as “a house of fine repute,” which was a respectable bed and breakfast. Women were said in the late 1920s to own many of the individual cabins nearby, quite a remarkable financial feat for any woman in the 1920.
About 10 years ago the historical group of the Billy Holcomb chapter of E. Clampus Vitas installed a historical monument and plaque honoring the history of the Tudor House and Arrowhead Villas, which has now celebrated its 100th anniversary. The Tudor House is now an event venue hosting plays, concerts and other events.
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