How It All Began
Inspired by Rex Hodges in 1956, a group of talented and devoted Christian Scientists arranged to purchase an eight-acre site in Garden Grove. They incorporated as The Willows Foundation, Inc.
As the idea grew, so did the size of the property -- from eight to 20 acres.
In the 1960's during a two-year period, 90 one-and-two-bedroom units were built. At the same time, there were 280 Christian Scientists waiting to move in.
About two years later the board learned about freeway plans that would include The Willows acreage. They spent three years looking for another location. Everywhere they looked, the cost of land seemed beyond their ability to pay.
Then in 1971, without human planning, Rossmoor Leisure World in Laguna Hills offered the board 20 acres. The site was "free from excessive noise and heavy traffic, with fine views, and close to shops, banks, and other services." And best of all, compared to other possible locations, this purchase would save The Willows $200,000.
And there's more ... Rossmoor offered to construct our buildings in keeping with the design of Leisure World, and at a cost much lower than any other contractor offered.
Just a year later (August 1972) Willows residents moved from Garden Grove into their new homes.
In little more than 15 years -- and with a lot of hard work -- Rex Hodges' vision of a residential community was molded and developed. The Willows stands today as a tribute to those dedicated Christian Scientist who lived and worked in Southern California, and made it happen.
Lee Wackman -- The One Who Was There
The above highlights Lee Wackman's "The Story of The Willows Foundation By One Who Was There". In 26 pages he remembers names and recalls events. He details meetings and thrift shop openings, and the Scientists who contributed. He talks about happy times -- picnics, white elephant sales. In his narrative one can learn a lot about the events that make The Willows what it is today. You'll find copies on the literature table in the Study Center (Villa 123).
This news article, by Lee Wackman, was first printed in The Willows Newsletter, April 2007
