Stuff You Missed in History Class – SYMHC Classics: Griffith Jenkins Griffith

Release Date: January 4, 2025
Hosts: Holly Fry & Tracy V. Wilson
Produced by: iHeartPodcasts

Introduction to Griffith J. Griffith

On January 4, 1850, Griffith Jenkins Griffith was born in South Wales. Known primarily for donating the expansive Griffith Park in Los Angeles, Griffith's life was a complex tapestry of philanthropy, ambition, and personal turmoil. While his legacy today is largely tied to one of Los Angeles' most cherished public spaces, Griffith's personal life was marred by scandal and tragedy.

Early Life and Career

Griffith hailed from a poverty-stricken family engaged in subsistence farming and mining. As the eldest child, his responsibilities led him to the United States at a young age. After completing his education in Pennsylvania, Griffith embarked on a career in journalism, becoming a reporter who specialized in the mining industry on the West Coast.

“Griffith started working as a reporter,” notes Holly Fry at [03:20].

His expertise soon transformed into entrepreneurship as he consulted for mining companies and launched his own successful ventures, amassing substantial wealth by the early 1880s.

Move to Los Angeles and Land Acquisition

In 1882, Griffith moved to Los Angeles, bringing with him a significant fortune. His strategic investments focused on land acquisition, particularly purchasing Rancho Los Feliz from Thomas Bell. This 4,500-acre tract would later become Griffith Park, encompassing areas like Los Feliz, Silver Lake, and parts of the Santa Monica Mountains.

“He saw his property acquisition as the beginning of an entirely new venture,” explains Peter Tilden at [05:43].

Griffith's vision extended beyond mere land ownership; he aimed to develop a ranching business, importing livestock and even establishing an ostrich farm. Simultaneously, he capitalized on the booming real estate market by selling lots, effectively laying the groundwork for future Los Angeles neighborhoods.

Marriage to Christina Mesmer

Griffith's ambition wasn't limited to business. Seeking social elevation, he courted Christina Mesmer, daughter of Louis Mesmer, a respected Los Angeles pioneer. Their marriage on January 27, 1887, was seen as a union of two affluent families.

However, the marriage quickly encountered financial disputes. Griffith insisted Christina sign over her inheritance, initially believing she would receive exclusive control. When it became clear that the fortune was to be shared with her sister Lucy, Griffith's insistence strained familial relations.

“Griffith's defense strategy slowly shifted away from the story that the shooting was an accident and instead claimed alcoholic insanity,” states Tracy Wilson at [28:19].

Establishment of Griffith Park

In December 1890, Griffith made a monumental gift to Los Angeles: 3,015 acres of Rancho Los Feliz designated exclusively as Griffith Park. This donation was both a philanthropic gesture and a strategic move to enhance his reputation within the city.

“Griffith, in his own words, 'I consider it my obligation to make Los Angeles a happier, cleaner, and finer city,'” quotes Holly Fry at [13:07].

The deed stipulated that the land be used solely for public recreation, health, and pleasure, ensuring its preservation for future generations. Griffith's vision for the park blended European-inspired manicured gardens with natural landscapes, a balance that remains evident today.

Descent into Paranoia and Alcoholism

Despite his public generosity, Griffith's personal life deteriorated. Heavy drinking led to increased paranoia, particularly concerning perceived threats from the Catholic Church—a religion his devout wife embraced.

“By the time G.J. Griffith purchased Rancho Los Feliz, it had a reputation as a cursed property,” Holly Fry remarks at [05:23], highlighting the ominous beginnings of his troubled later years.

The 1903 Shooting Incident

The culmination of Griffith's personal struggles manifested in a tragic event on September 3, 1903. While on vacation in Santa Monica with his wife Christina and their teenage son Vandell, Griffith's paranoia reached a deadly peak.

At approximately [17:33], Griffith confronted Christina in their hotel room, accusing her of poisoning him—a belief fueled by his distrust of the Pope and escalating alcohol consumption. Armed with a revolver, Griffith interrogated Christina, demanding she swear her innocence using her prayer book.

“Griffith handed Tina the prayer book, told her to swear by it that she would answer his questions truthfully,” narrates Peter Tilden at [18:10].

When Christina denied the accusations, Griffith shot her in the face, causing severe injuries but sparing her life. In a desperate move, Christina escaped by jumping out of the window, injuring her shoulder but surviving the ordeal.

The Trial and Legal Proceedings

Griffith initially claimed the incident was accidental, suggesting the revolver discharged unexpectedly. However, inconsistencies and witness statements, including those from the Mesmer family, cast doubt on his account.

“He shot Tina in the face,” Holly Fry emphasizes at [20:24], underscoring the severity of the assault.

During the trial, Christina testified about Griffith's coercion and violent behavior. Despite her compelling testimony, Griffith's defense argued insanity due to alcoholism. The jury convicted him of assault with a deadly weapon, assigning a two-year prison sentence and a $5,000 fine.

“Griffith was found guilty not of attempted murder, but of the lesser crime of assault with a deadly weapon,” Peter Tilden explains at [30:58].

Aftermath and Legacy

Following his release from San Quentin, Griffith sought to rehabilitate his image through further philanthropic efforts, including offers to fund the Griffith Observatory and the Greek Theatre. Although initially met with skepticism due to his past, Griffith's legacy was ultimately secured posthumously through his continued contributions.

Griffith passed away in 1919 from liver-related issues. After his death, it was revealed that he had established a trust to fund his envisioned projects, ensuring that Griffith Park would host the renowned observatory and theatre.

“Upon his death, it was revealed that Griffith had set up a trust to ensure that his observatory and the Greek theater project did move forward,” Holly Fry concludes at [34:39].

Today, Griffith Park stands as a testament to Griffith J. Griffith's complex legacy—a blend of significant civic contributions shadowed by personal tragedy.

Notable Quotes:

• “I consider it my obligation to make Los Angeles a happier, cleaner and finer city. I wish to pay my debt of duty in this way to the community in which I have prospered.” — Griffith J. Griffith at [13:07]

• “He would say, get your prayer book and kneel down and cover your eyes. I'm going to shoot you and I'm going to kill you.” — Griffith J. Griffith as reported by Christina at [21:48]

• “Why, Papa, you know I have never harmed a hair on your head.” — Christina Mesmer Griffith at [19:26]

Conclusion

Griffith Jenkins Griffith's story is a poignant reminder of the complexities within historical figures. His substantial contributions to Los Angeles' urban landscape are indelibly marked by personal failings and a tragic end. Stuff You Missed in History Class provides a comprehensive exploration of Griffith's life, offering listeners a nuanced understanding of his enduring legacy.

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