BARRY HAGER'S CONTRIBUTIONS TO HISTORIC PRESERVATION in San Diego span more than two decades and reflect an extraordinary commitment to protecting the historic character, cultural resources, and architectural heritage of Mission Hills and the greater San Diego region.
A founding member of Mission Hills Heritage in 2004, Barry has been a driving force behind many of the organization's most significant preservation achievements. He has helped shape preservation policy, protect historic resources, educate the public, and build consensus that has strengthened community stewardship of historic neighborhoods.
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4100 block of Stephens Street in the Arnold & Choates Addition – North Florence Heights, a National Register historic district in Mission Hills. Photo by Barry Hager |
Among his many accomplishments, Barry played key roles in efforts to secure more compatible development in Mission Hills, establishing/installing historic-style street lighting, rehabilitating neighborhood landmarks, restoring historic features in Presidio Park, and advocating for the preservation of threatened historic resources, including the adaptively reused former Mission Hills Library.
Perhaps Barry's most enduring legacy is his unflagging leadership in the designation of historic districts. Recognizing the importance of preserving not only individual structures but entire historic neighborhoods, he helped guide Mission Hills Heritage's efforts to secure National Register of Historic Places designation for the Inspiration Heights Historic District and the Arnold & Choate's Addition–North Florence Heights Historic District. He is currently leading efforts to designate the Marine View Historic District, another significant undertaking encompassing more than 330 historic homes and structures. These designations will help ensure that the remarkable architectural and cultural character of Mission Hills survives and thrives for many generations to come.
Barry has also been a strong public advocate for preservation, regularly lending his expertise and authoritative voice before the City Council, San Diego Historical Resources Board, Mission Hills Town Council, and other public bodies. His thoughtful research, writing, public speaking, and oversight have elevated preservation issues in Mission Hills and helped build broader public appreciation for its historic resources.
In addition to his Mission Hills advocacy, Barry has supported local preservation efforts, including helping secure funding for SOHO's PlaceEconomics study, an unprecedented initiative that demonstrates the economic, environmental, and community value of historic preservation.
What distinguishes Barry's service is the consistency, dedication, and vision he has shown over many years. His stewardship has preserved irreplaceable historic resources, and inspired others to become involved in preservation work.
As a researcher, historian, and writer, he has devoted many hours to enlightening and educating the public about the value of historic preservation. Through articles, presentations, and public outreach, he has helped residents better understand the stories, architecture, and cultural significance of their neighborhoods. His work has preserved not only buildings and landscapes, but also the historical context that give those places meaning. In doing so, Barry has created a lasting educational legacy that will continue to benefit preservationists, historians, and community members.
Barry's commitment to preservation is also evident in the years he spent on the SOHO board of directors, including as vice president, and as an active member of SOHO's Preservation Committee. He has generously shared his legal expertise and practical counsel, assisting with preservation advocacy efforts, reviewing contracts and important organizational documents, and providing thoughtful guidance on complex issues facing the preservation community.
Barry has remained a trusted friend, advisor, and collaborator to SOHO and the broader preservation movement. His willingness to lend his time, expertise, and support whenever needed has made him an invaluable resource and respected colleague.
Barry’s influence can also be found in the people and organizations he has supported and mentored along the way. For his longstanding leadership, extraordinary volunteer service, and lasting impact on the preservation of San Diego's historic places, Barry Hager is eminently deserving of recognition with a SOHO Legacy award.
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