Our Mission
Darlington House is owned and operated by Social Service League of La Jolla, a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization whose mission is to provide affordable housing and meals for eligible seniors.
Choosing Darlington House for your special day is also a way to spread love in our community. 100% of the funds acquired through Darlington House rentals for weddings, memorials, photo shoots, and other events held at Darlington House benefit our mission.
We thank you for your support of our mission. If you would like to make a tax-deductible donation or learn more about becoming an SSL volunteer member, please contact our Executive Director by clicking the button below!
Our History
The Beginning
In 1925, Mrs. Sybil Darlington bought a parcel of oceanfront property on Olivetas Avenue in La Jolla, California and hired architect Herbert C. Palmer to design a central structure to join the two small existing structures on the site. Richard Requa, eminent authority on Spanish architecture, was chosen in 1931 to create the library wing, Andalusian Patio, and Egyptian Patio. Local Master Architect Thomas Shepherd modified the front of the house and added the second story and curving staircase in 1940. The Shepherd influence is evident in the skillfully designed second floor addition. He maintained architectural simplicity while at the same time transforming the house into a sizeable mansion and one of the most prized edifices of La Jolla.
The League
Social Service League was founded in 1947 to address the housing need of many war widows in the local San Diego area. Through grassroots efforts, this small but dedicated group of women volunteers raised enough funds to build a 15-unit structure on Pearl Street, adjacent to Mrs. Darlington’s property that they dubbed League House.
Today, Social Service League provides League House’s senior residents with subsidized rent, utilities, services and meals. The organization focuses on supporting seniors who meet income requirements with physical and social needs through an emphasis on community and shared evening meals.
The Venue
In 1968, Sybil Darlington passed away and Social Service League of La Jolla purchased the estate and gardens.
Their motive was to obtain the 25 feet of vacant property included in the sale, making it possible to add 24 additional units to League House. Soon after acquiring the picturesque property, League members had the brilliant idea to utilize Darlington House as a much-needed source of revenue for their mission.
In 1995, Darlington House was designated by the San Diego Historical Site Board as Site No. 327 in the Register of Historic Landmarks.
Allison Davis Photography