Supervisors Landmark Historic Sacred Heart Parish Complex

Church of 8 Wheels will continue to operate at the site

Earlier today, The Sacred Heart Parish Complex, a site dating back to the late 1800s, received landmark status. The site is situated in the heart of District 5 and consists of four contiguous lots bound by Fillmore, Fell, Webster, and Oak.

The church, rectory, school, and convent that comprise the complex are beautiful examples of the Romanesque Revival‐style of that era. The complex is significant for its association with master architect Thomas J. Welsh, who designed over 400 buildings in San Francisco and was one of the chief practitioners of the Romanesque Revival style in the city. The complex is also significant for its association with Father Eugene Boyle, pastor of the church from 1968 to 1972. A prominent and influential civil rights activist in northern California, Father Boyle served as the public face for Catholic involvement in the Black civil rights movement, protest of the Vietnam War, fights against urban renewal, fair housing advocacy, and the farm labor movement.

“I am proud of this historic landmarking of the Sacred Heart Parish. This was a team effort that brought together preservationists, the Planning Department, Historic Preservation Commission and the property owners,” said Supervisor Preston. “I am glad we were able to get it done, and I’m looking forward to the next chapter for this special property.”

Supervisor Preston’s office heard from a number of stakeholders regarding the contents of the landmarking and was able to facilitate agreements with the representatives for the property owners, leaders in the preservation community, and city staff.

Since 2014, the Sacred Heart Church has also become home to the beloved Church of 8 Wheels, curated by David Miles Jr., where roller skaters can skate inside the beautiful church building. The Church of 8 Wheels is now in its 10th year of roller skating at the church.

With the historic landmarking status of this site, the owners have shared with Supervisor Preston's office their intention to continue this successful collaboration with Miles, which means that the church should continue to be a place for beginners and pros alike to put on their skates and groove to disco music under neon lights and stained glass windows.

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