Tag Archives: J.B. Blunk

Audrey’s Bench – A Brief History

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For over two decades, Audrey’s Bench—located on Sanchez Hill near the corner of 21st Street—has been a quiet sanctuary for our community. This stunning redwood bench, masterfully crafted by acclaimed wood carver J.B. Blunk, invites passersby to pause, relax, and behold the iconic views and green spaces that make Dolores Heights so special.

A Legacy of Preservation

The bench stands as a living tribute to Audrey Penn Rodgers, a tireless neighborhood leader who served as chair of the Dolores Heights Improvement Club during the 1970s and the 1980s. Audrey spearheaded the campaign that successfully enacted the Dolores Heights Special Use District into city law. Thanks to her vision and advocacy, our neighborhood was protected from citywide rezoning that would have flattened our hills and obstructed our breathtaking vistas. Audrey also successfully championed crucial infrastructure improvements, such as moving our utility lines underground to preserve the natural beauty of our streets.

Why We Need Your Support

Weathering the elements takes a toll. While Audrey’s family has gathered in  Dolores Heights each year to clean and polish the wood, the bench now requires a comprehensive renovation to its structural elements, protective finishes, and the surrounding planted areas.

Audrey’s Bench on Sanchez Hill Gets Annual Brush-up 

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One of our local landmarks is Audrey’s bench – at the southwest corner of Sanchez & 21st Streets. It recognizes the leadership of Audrey Rogers. She led the campaign that secured passage of the Dolores Heights Special Use District in 1980. She also obtained City upgrades, like moving utilities under ground.  

The bench was designed by acclaimed wood carver, J.B. Blunk. Her children who grew up at 3732 21st Street help to maintain it.   As they worked to clean the area and polish the wood bench on Sunday, August 20, neighbors walking by thanked them.  If you haven’t already, spend a few minutes seated in this beautiful memorial to a neighbor who led the effort to preserve the unique character of our neighborhood.  

Photo: Members of Audrey Rogers’ family hard at work.