California’s Gilded Age was a period of immense wealth, architectural beauty, and cultural significance. This era saw the rise of opulent mansions that stood as symbols of prosperity and social standing.
These grand estates, built by influential industrialists, socialites, and politicians, showcase the diverse architectural styles that defined this era, such as Beaux-Arts, Victorian, and Mediterranean Revival.
Today, these historic mansions not only tell the stories of their former inhabitants but also highlight the preservation efforts that keep their legacy alive. Here are 20 significant mansions from this remarkable period.
1. Hearst Castle
Hearst Castle, perched atop the hills of San Simeon, is a masterpiece of Mediterranean Revival architecture. Designed by Julia Morgan for newspaper magnate William Randolph Hearst, it boasts ornate facades and expansive gardens.
The estate reflects the grandeur of Hearst’s empire built on media and publishing. Inside, its lavish rooms and art collections echo the opulence of the Gilded Age. Today, Hearst Castle stands as a museum, preserving the legacy of one of America’s most influential industrialists.
2. Filoli Estate
Filoli Estate, nestled in Woodside, exemplifies Georgian elegance. Built for mining magnate William Bowers Bourn II, it features grand interiors and expansive gardens. Its architecture reflects the wealth generated from California’s gold mines.
The estate’s impressive facade and intricate design showcase the opulence of its era. Now a public garden, Filoli continues to enchant visitors with its historic charm and serene beauty, offering a glimpse into the affluent lifestyles of its past.
3. Greystone Mansion
Greystone Mansion, located in Beverly Hills, is a stunning example of Tudor Revival architecture. Built for oil tycoon Edward L. Doheny, its grandeur reflects the immense wealth generated from the oil industry. The mansion’s stone facade and intricate woodwork highlight the lavish tastes of the era.
Today, Greystone serves as a public park and event venue, providing a picturesque setting that continues to captivate visitors with its historic allure.
4. The Gamble House
The Gamble House in Pasadena is a quintessential example of Craftsman architecture. Designed for David and Mary Gamble of the Procter & Gamble company, this home showcases expertly crafted woodwork and meticulous detailing.
Its design emphasizes harmony with nature, reflecting the ideals of the Arts and Crafts movement. Now a museum, the Gamble House preserves a rich history of architectural innovation and the prosperous lifestyles of its original owners.
5. The Winchester Mystery House
The Winchester Mystery House in San Jose is renowned for its Victorian eccentricity. Created by Sarah Winchester, heir to the Winchester rifle fortune, the mansion is filled with architectural oddities, like staircases that lead to nowhere.
Its labyrinthine design reflects a blend of wealth and mystery, embodying the unique history of its owner. Today, it stands as a testament to the creativity and intrigue of Gilded Age architecture.
6. The Eames House
The Eames House in Pacific Palisades offers a striking contrast with its modernist design amid the traditional mansions of the Gilded Age. Built by Charles and Ray Eames, it features sleek lines and expansive glass, reflecting the innovation of its creators.
While not a mansion of the Gilded Age, its influence is profound, showcasing the transition from opulence to modernism. The Eames House remains a symbol of architectural evolution.
7. The Ralston Hall Mansion
Ralston Hall Mansion in Belmont embodies Victorian Italianate elegance. Built by banker William Chapman Ralston, its grand columns and elegant interiors reflect the opulence of the Gilded Age. The mansion’s design showcases the wealth generated from banking and finance.
Today, it serves as a historical monument, preserving the legacy of its influential owner and the architectural beauty of its era.
8. The Carson Mansion
The Carson Mansion in Eureka is a Victorian marvel. Built for lumber baron William Carson, its ornate woodwork and vibrant colors exemplify the wealth amassed from California’s timber industry. The mansion’s intricate design and grand presence make it an iconic symbol of the Gilded Age.
Today, it stands preserved as a private club, maintaining its historic charm and architectural significance.
9. The Crocker Mansion
The Crocker Mansion in Sacramento is a testament to Beaux-Arts grandeur. Built for Charles Crocker, a railroad magnate, its classic columns and stately presence reflect the immense wealth born from the rail industry.
The mansion’s opulent design and expansive spaces embody the luxury of its era. Today, it is part of the Crocker Art Museum, preserving its historical and cultural legacy.
10. The Chateau Sureau
The Chateau Sureau near Yosemite offers a taste of French countryside elegance. Though not from the Gilded Age, it reflects the timeless appeal of this era’s design. Its elegant stonework and lush gardens create a serene and luxurious atmosphere.
Today, it operates as a boutique hotel, offering visitors a glimpse into the grandeur of historic French-inspired architecture.
11. The Adamson House
The Adamson House in Malibu captures the essence of Spanish Colonial Revival architecture. Built by Rhoda Rindge Adamson, it features colorful tiles and stunning ocean views.
The mansion’s design reflects the rich cultural heritage of California and the wealth generated from the Rindge family’s landholdings. Today, it serves as a museum, preserving its vibrant history and architectural beauty.
12. The Hollyhock House
The Hollyhock House in Los Angeles is an iconic example of Mayan Revival architecture. Designed by Frank Lloyd Wright for oil heiress Aline Barnsdall, its geometric shapes and lush gardens create a unique aesthetic.
The mansion’s innovative design reflects the artistic and cultural aspirations of its era. Today, it stands as a landmark, celebrating the creativity and influence of Wright’s architectural vision.
13. The Annenberg Community Beach House
The Annenberg Community Beach House in Santa Monica, once part of an opulent estate, showcases Art Deco influences. Built for actress Marion Davies by newspaper mogul William Randolph Hearst, its design exudes glamour and sophistication.
The mansion’s beachside location and panoramic views embody the luxurious lifestyle of Hollywood’s elite. Today, it serves as a public venue, offering a glimpse into its glamorous past.
14. The Casa del Herrero
Casa del Herrero in Montecito is a masterpiece of Spanish Colonial Revival architecture. Built for industrialist George Fox Steedman, its intricate ironwork and lush gardens reflect the wealth and cultural influences of the era.
The estate’s design emphasizes craftsmanship and attention to detail, showcasing the opulence of its time. Today, it is a museum, preserving the artistic and architectural heritage of its period.
15. The Kimberly Crest House
Kimberly Crest House in Redlands is a stunning example of French chateau-style architecture. Built for J.A. Kimberly, a co-founder of Kimberly-Clark, its turrets and lush gardens reflect the elegance and sophistication of the Gilded Age.
The mansion’s design embodies the grandeur and opulence of its era. Today, it stands preserved as a historic house museum, offering a glimpse into the luxurious lifestyles of its past.
16. The McHenry Mansion
The McHenry Mansion in Modesto is a beautiful example of Victorian Italianate design. Built by Robert McHenry, a prominent banker and rancher, its ornate details and lush gardens reflect the wealth and cultural influences of its era.
The mansion’s architecture showcases the opulence and grandeur of the Gilded Age. Today, it serves as a museum, preserving its historical and architectural significance.
17. The Leland Stanford Mansion
The Leland Stanford Mansion in Sacramento epitomizes the grandeur of Second Empire architecture. Built by railroad magnate Leland Stanford, its distinctive mansard roof and elegant interiors reflect the wealth and influence of its owner.
The mansion’s design embodies the opulence and sophistication of the Gilded Age. Today, it serves as a state historic park, preserving its legacy and architectural beauty.
18. The Villa Montalvo
Villa Montalvo in Saratoga is a beautiful example of Mediterranean Revival architecture. Built by James Duval Phelan, a prominent politician, its terracotta roof tiles and lush gardens reflect the elegance and opulence of its era.
The mansion’s design embodies the grandeur and sophistication of the Gilded Age. Today, it serves as an arts center, preserving its historical and cultural significance.
19. The Château Élysée
The Château Élysée in Los Angeles is a stunning example of French Normandy-style architecture. Built as a luxury hotel for Hollywood elites, its elegant stonework and lush gardens reflect the glamour and sophistication of the Gilded Age.
The mansion’s design embodies the opulence and grandeur of its era. Today, it serves as a spiritual center, preserving its historical and architectural significance.
20. The Camron-Stanford House
The Camron-Stanford House in Oakland is a beautiful example of Victorian Italianate architecture. Built for William Walker Camron, a successful businessman, its ornate facades and lush gardens reflect the wealth and cultural influences of its era.
The mansion’s design embodies the opulence and sophistication of the Gilded Age. Today, it serves as a museum, preserving its historical and architectural significance.