The Carson Mansion, located in the heart of Eureka, California, is considered to be one of the best examples of American Queen Anne architecture. It is often described as the greatest Victorian home in America. Some sources claim that it's the most photographed house in the US.
The house was built for William Carson, one of California's lumber barons. The architects who designed the mansion were Samuel and Joseph Newsom from San Francisco. The house was made primarily of redwood, 97,000 feet of white mahogany from Central America and onyx from East India, Mexico and the Philippines. It took more than 100 men over two years to build it.
In 1950, the Carson family sold the house to the private Ingomar Club which does not allow indoor tours. Only the lucky guests of the club can see the beautiful stained glass designs, plasterwork, and carved ornaments.
Practical info
When and by whom was the impressive Carson Mansion erected?
The Carson Mansion was built by Samuel and Joseph Newsom, architects from San Francisco, commissioned by William Carson, one of California's timber tycoons. The mansion consists of redwood, white mahogany from Central America, and onyx from India, Mexico, and the Philippines. Over a hundred men spent two years constructing it, and it was finished in 1886, becoming Eureka's finest treasure. Show more
What are the Carson Mansion's location and architectural style?
At 155 'M' Street, the Carson Mansion stands in Old Town, Eureka. One of the most splendid examples of Queen Anne American style architecture in the United States distinguishes the house's exterior with colors, plasterwork, stained glass designs, and carved ornaments. The mansion incorporates gables, turrets, and a steeply pitched roof that complete its elegance and charm. Show more
What is so unique about the materials used to build the Carson Mansion?
The mansion's redwood structure was ubiquitous to the area, while rare and costly white mahogany, from Central America, provides ample decoration. The carved features of the mansion consist of onyx, which was much more exotic and brought from East India, Mexico, and the Philippines. These unique materials are one of the many aspects making the abandoned house attractive and worth visiting. Show more
When was the Carson estate sold, and currently, who is it owned by?
In 1950, the Carson family sold the mansion to the Ingomar Club, private gentlemen's society in Eureka. Nowadays, only members of this club can visit the estate's indoor areas and admire all the artistic and architectural details that make the Carson Mansion so impressive and well-maintained. Show more
Is the Carson Mansion open to visiting guests, or only for the members of the Ingomar Club?
Access to the impressive and unique Carson Mansion, including its stained-glass windows, carved designs, and others, is currently restricted to guests who are members of the Ingomar Club. Preserving it in good condition is the club's responsibility, maintaining both the city's cultural heritage and the mansion's historical significance, ensuring it remains a favorite tourist destination in Old Town, Eureka. Show more
