Welcome to the Rockhaven Historic District, a place steeped in both history and tranquility. Founded in 1923 by Agnes Traviss Richards, a visionary psychiatric nurse, Rockhaven was established as a sanctuary for women dealing with mild mental and nervous disorders. At a time when mental health care often meant large, impersonal institutions, Agnes Richards created an oasis of care nestled in the Crescenta Valley, marked by its serene gardens and home-like atmosphere.
Richards was inspired to open Rockhaven after witnessing the harsh conditions and mistreatment women faced in state-run asylums. She envisioned a place where women could heal in comfort, surrounded by beauty and nature. The sanitarium is one of the earliest examples of the Cottage Plan of Asylum architecture in California, designed to provide a peaceful setting through individual cottages and lush landscaping.
Over its years of operation, Rockhaven became known as the ‘Screen Actors’ Sanitarium.’ It was a haven for women from Hollywood’s golden age, including Gladys Pearl Baker, the mother of Marilyn Monroe, who lived here from 1952 to 1966. Stories of Baker’s attempted escapes add a touch of intrigue to Rockhaven’s history.
The grounds of Rockhaven feature a collection of buildings that reflect early 20th-century architectural styles, including Spanish Colonial Revival and Craftsman. These structures and the surrounding gardens have been preserved, maintaining the vision Richards had for a therapeutic environment.
In a broader historical context, Rockhaven represents a significant shift in mental health care, particularly for women. It challenged the norms of its time and offered a model for more humane treatment that prioritized dignity and respect.
Today, Rockhaven is recognized on the National Register of Historic Places, and there are plans to transform it into a museum to share its rich history with future generations.
