Historic LA home threatened by wildfires as owners fear loss

Courtney and Matthew Weil are facing a challenging situation as they prepare to move into their 138-year-old Italianate Victorian house, which is under threat from one of the largest fires in Los Angeles. The couple, who have been restoring the historic home since purchasing it in 2022, are now concerned about its proximity to the fires.

More than 153,000 residents in Los Angeles County have been ordered to evacuate due to the ongoing fires, which have already destroyed thousands of buildings. Courtney Weil expressed her fears about the situation: "It is flat-out apocalyptic," she said to Realtor.com. "It smells like a wildfire... There’s ash raining down from the sky."

The Weils' house is located just a mile and a half from a mandatory evacuation zone. Courtney has been closely monitoring news updates and fire maps, ready to leave if necessary. The family, including their two young children, are currently staying at a nearby residence.

Despite concerns for their home's safety, Courtney has refrained from visiting frequently due to evacuation efforts. However, she did stop by recently and found the house still standing but covered in ash. "This is terrifying," she commented on TikTok while showing a large piece of ash on their porch.

Courtney requested that the exact location of their home remain undisclosed for security reasons. She mentioned that police had made arrests related to looting in evacuated areas and recounted an attempted break-in at their garage last December.

Governor Gavin Newsom has deployed National Guard members and implemented a curfew to prevent looting. He stated firmly at a press conference: “To those who would seek to take advantage of evacuated communities, let me be clear: Looting will not be tolerated.”

The Weils purchased their dream home filled with antiques from a historic preservation society. Although many items hold sentimental value rather than financial worth, they are irreplaceable treasures for the family. Among these finds is an antique music box described by Nancy Fratti of Nancy Fratti Music Boxes as having survived well over time.

Other notable discoveries include a World War I Army Corps uniform and memorabilia linked to comedy magic duo Milo & Roger, who were friends with previous homeowner Roger Madison.

Unfortunately for Courtney and Matthew, obtaining home insurance has been difficult due to their property's historic status. Their policy was dropped by State Farm in February 2023 because such homes are deemed high risk; although they have secured another policy since then—albeit not ideal—it remains inadequate should disaster strike.

Reflecting on potential losses if their beloved house burns down amid ongoing devastation throughout neighboring communities like Altadena where many historical residences have already perished during this crisis period—the couple continues hoping for favorable outcomes despite uncertain circumstances ahead:

"There’s nothing we can do right now," says Courtney somberly yet optimistically adding via TikTok video plea urging others willing offer support through prayers good vibes rain dances whatever may help bring relief needed desperately today:

"If you pray pray If you send good vibes send good vibes Do rain dance if that's your thing because we need it desperately right now."