VISIT OUR BUNGALOW

Murphy Smith Bungalow est ~1923

Visit the Laguna Beach Historical Society at the bungalow where volunteer docents* will be happy to show you the memorabilia on display.

The Murphys were the first residents of the home. The bungalow is listed in the City of Laguna Beach Historic Register where it is described as "a builder's bungalow with a box plan, multi-gabled roof, and clapboard siding. Wide wood posts support the porch gable.  The main door has side light windows and French doors that open onto the bedroom."

In 1935, Lottie Evaline Clapp who owned a boarding house across the street, purchased the bungalow and later sold it to her daughter, Blanche Clapp.  During WWII, Blanche would rent out one of the bedrooms to service personnel and their wives.  She married in the early 1950s, becoming Blanche Clapp Smith.  Mr. and Mrs. Smith moved to Los Angeles, but returned to their Laguna Beach bungalow in 1953 when Mr. Smith became ill.  Mrs. Smith was a familiar figure by many locals who often saw her working in her garden and sweeping the porch. She was known for her daily walks to Main Beach.  Mrs. Smith lived in the house until her death in 1991 at the age of 89.  The bungalow is now owned by Wells Fargo Bank, and they generously lease it to the Laguna Beach Historical Society.

Laguna Beach has a colorful and interesting history that we would like to share with you!

Click here for Bungalow Brochure

Murphy Smith Bungalow
278 Ocean Ave
Laguna Beach, CA 92651

Open most Fridays, Saturdays, & Sundays from 1PM-4PM

*Contact us if you are interested in becoming a docent.