Palo Alto Medical Clinic
historic place
The Palo Alto Medical Clinic, a historic place in Palo Alto, Santa Clara County, holds significance in local medical history. The clinic was formally organized in 1930 by Dr. Russell Lee and five other physicians. Its first dedicated building, now known as the Roth Building, was erected in 1932 at 300 Homer Avenue. Designed by local architect Birge Clark, the structure showcases the Spanish Eclectic style. A notable feature of the building is a series of fresco paintings by artist Victor Arnautoff, which adorn the wall around the front entry. These medically-themed murals are the only known exterior frescoes publicly visible in Palo Alto. The Palo Alto Medical Clinic pioneered the multi-specialty group practice model in the community, a concept that later became common nationwide. The building was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 2010. This site remains important for its role in advancing healthcare practices in Palo Alto.