A Request To The Board of Directors of The 1887 FUND, a registered 501(c)(3) organization created to restore the HISTORIC WADSWORTH CHAPEL.
WE ARE REQUESTING THE IMMEDIATE RESTORATION of the HISTORIC WADSWORTH CHAPEL, located on the West Los Angeles VA Campus.
We, the undersigned concerned Citizens, Veterans, Preservationists, and Community members, respectfully request the immediate creation of a construction timeline for the long-overdue and fully funded restoration of the Historic Wadsworth Chapel, located on the West Los Angeles VA Campus
… the Wadsworth Chapel is a sacred promise to our veterans — a testament to the generosity of Arcadia Bandini de Stearns Baker, who donated this land “for the benefit of disabled veterans.”
… for over five decades, since its closure following the 1971 Sylmar Earthquake, the Wadsworth Chapel has stood in a state of disrepair, despite numerous public statements and fundraising initiatives through The 1887 Fund, which were never completed.
… We call upon the 1887 Fund to follow through upon its mission and take immediate steps to restore this historic landmark before the 2028 Olympic Games, when the eyes of the world will be upon Los Angeles.
As a tax-exempt, nonprofit organization entrusted with public donations and historical stewardship, the 1887 Fund bears a legal and ethical obligation of accountability and transparency. We therefore request the following:
1. The immediate creation of a detailed project timeline for the restoration of the Wadsworth Chapel, including:
2. That a public statement of commitment should be published, affirming that this restoration remains an active and prioritized project.
3. Regular progress updates will be created and timely shared with the community and veteran stakeholders through the 1887 Fund’s official website and public forums.
Stay In Touch for Wadsworth Chapel Restoration Kickstart Project's upcoming Rally Events in 2026. Our Veterans, Americans, and the WORLD deserve to see this beautiful landmark restored to its original grandeur NOW!
The Wadsworth Chapel Restoration Kickstart Project is bringing attention to the neglect of this Crown Jewel - The Wadsworth Chapel. made in the lives of those we serve. From providing basic needs to promoting education and job training, we are dedicated to changing lives.
Join The Wadsworth Chapel Restoration Kickstart Project's team and help make a difference. We must save HISTORY!
We are a coalition of veterans, preservationists, and concerned citizens united in our commitment to restore the historic Wadsworth Chapel, which has suffered over 50 years of neglect. This ongoing disregard is not only a stain on our shared heritage but a profound disservice to the family who generously donated the land and to the veterans for whom it was intended.
We are calling on Veterans and community members to help jumpstart the restoration of the historic Wadsworth Chapel — a sacred space that once served as a refuge and symbol of healing.
Whether you’re skilled in painting, plastering, woodworking, plumbing, welding, or just have a passion for historic preservation — your talents are needed. There’s a role for everyone in this meaningful project.
Be part of the team that brings new life to this long-neglected landmark.
Visit our Connect With Us page below and sign up to get involved. Together, we can make a lasting difference.
Join us in our mission to demand the immediate restoration of this gem of the West Los Angeles Veterans Administration. Our veterans deserve to see and take part in this united front to restore this beacon of hope.
Once a place of refuge and spiritual healing for veterans, the Wadsworth Chapel stood as a symbol of dignity and care. It was built on the land donated by the Bandini family. Our goal is to see this architectural treasure restored to its original grandeur, honoring its legacy and the people it was built to serve.
The Wadsworth Chapel, built in 1900, is the oldest building on Wilshire Boulevard and one of the few remaining structures from the original Soldiers Home in West Los Angeles. Despite its historical designation, it remains abandoned and deteriorating - its glass windows shattered, its once grand facade crumbling.