As one means of preserving local history, the Culver City Historical Society began marking Historic Sites in 1981, before Culver City had a historic preservation ordinance. Because of the importance of religion in the lives of the Early Settlers, Historic Site #3 commemorated the first church in what became Culver City.

J. Francisco Figueroa, a prominent landowner, donated acreage to the Diocese of Los Angeles for the construction of a Catholic church in 1883. At that time, local residents often rode to St. Monica’s in Santa Monica, a considerable trip by horse and buggy.

The little white wood frame chapel was located at what is now Washington Boulevard and Jasmine. That mission church was basically an offshoot of St. Monica’s, served by their priests, hence the name, St. Augustine’s. St. Augustine was recognized as the son of St. Monica. The church opened in 1887 with a seating capacity for 200. It was not until two years after Culver City’s incorporation, that the church had its first resident pastor, Fr. O’Toole in 1919. It was not long before necessity expanded the seating to 500.

This was the first of three churches on the site. The second church, which is currently used as a parish hall, built to seat 700, was dedicated in 1937. The third— and current St. Augustine’s Church—American Gothic in design, is recognized by the City of Culver City with historic landmark status. It opened its doors on Christmas morning, 1957, and was dedicated six months later in a “standing room only” ceremony officiated by James Francis Cardinal McIntyre, with special guest Bishop Fulton J. Sheen, a prominent radio and television personality.

This photo is a rare look at the early days. It is a recent gift to the historical society from member Christina Machado Essex. Christine is a descendant of Ygnacio Machado, one of the founders of Rancho La Ballona.