Who, what, where, why, and when.

The Mermaid is a horticultural garden

and a declared California historical, architectural, and cultural landmark.

It was originally developed in 1930 as the Sylvia Park Country Club

in the mountains above Los Angeles. Later, it was converted into a school and

during World War II became a gambling house and cathouse operated

by mobster Mickey Cohen. It was reborn as an American Legion hall, movie theatre,

and later in the 50s as a gay nightclub called The Canyon Club.

In the 70s it reemerged as the legendary

Mermaid Tavern featuring world-class music, and more.

By the late 1980s it was a ruin, structurally unsound, and destined for demolition.

In 1989, local artist and illustrator, Bill Buerge, fell in love with the property

and initiated a restoration that continues to this day.

Photographers from all over the world now come to shoot at the Mermaid.

It is a local watering hole for town meetings and memorials.

The Mountain Mermaid is dedicated to the celebration of beauty and community

and the preservation of our architectural, cultural and natural history.