Angelus Funeral Home
historic place
The Angelus Funeral Home in Los Angeles holds significant historical importance. It was initially founded in 1922, with community leaders establishing the business in 1923 to serve the African American community. The Angelus Funeral Home became the first Black-owned business incorporated in California in 1925. The original building, located on East Jefferson Boulevard, was completed in 1934. It was designed by Paul R. Williams, a prominent African American architect. The structure features Spanish Colonial Revival style with Art Deco and Georgian Revival elements. The funeral home played a crucial role by providing essential services during a period of widespread racial exclusion. It grew into one of Los Angeles's most successful Black-owned enterprises. The Jefferson Boulevard building was designated a Los Angeles Historic-Cultural Monument in 2004 and listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 2009. A historical marker was erected in 2020 by the City of Los Angeles. This site is significant for its architectural design and its foundational role in the African American community of Los Angeles.