Education

Williams publishes two books

When World War II ends, 17 million service personnel return to civilian life and need affordable housing. Williams addresses this problem in two pattern books: The Small Home of Tomorrow (1945) and New Homes for Today (1946). The plans and lifestyles shown in these books reflect Williams' belief about the future of middle class housing.

Japanese Utterly Beaten says MacArthur

Los Angeles Times, September 12, 1945

On September 2, 1945, Japan formerly surrenders to the Allies on the USS Missouri. Germany had already surrendered by May 1945. With Japan's surrender the world-wide conflict ends.

This newsreel of Japan's formal surrender plays in movie theaters around the world.

Imposing New Buildings in Colombia, S.A., Designed by Los Angeles Architect

Southwest Builder and Contractor, December 21, 1945

"Architect Paul R. Williams of Los Angeles, internationally famous for his designs, ranging from modest homes to magnificent metropolitan structures, has designed four unusually interesting buildings—one completed, one under construction, and two to be built soon—in Colombia South America."

This rendering by R. Allen of a lobby interior illustrates Williams' vision for a South American hotel.

The Wilfandel Club of Los Angeles Established

The Wilfandel Club of Los Angeles is established November 21, 1945 by a group of socially prominent African American women. Della Williams, Paul Williams' wife, is a founding member. The goal of this African American club, the oldest in the city, is to promote civic improvement, cultural and philanthropic endeavors. By the 1950s the Wilfandel club house is recognized as an integrated public meeting place—one of the few in the city.