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General Vallejo's Home: A Glimpse into California's Past

Explore the meticulously preserved estate of General Mariano Guadalupe Vallejo, a key figure in California's transition from Mexican territory to American state, and immerse yourself in the history of Sonoma.

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Step back in time at General Vallejo's Home, also known as Lachryma Montis, a beautifully preserved estate that once belonged to General Mariano Guadalupe Vallejo, a prominent figure in California's history. Built in 1851-52, this Victorian Carpenter Gothic-style house showcases the lifestyle of a wealthy Californio family in the mid-19th century. Explore the meticulously maintained grounds, complete with a free-flowing spring, gardens, and historic outbuildings. The home is furnished with many of Vallejo's personal effects, offering a unique glimpse into his life and times. Located a short distance from Sonoma Plaza, it's an easily accessible and enriching experience for anyone interested in California's rich heritage. Open daily, except for major holidays, General Vallejo's Home provides a serene and educational escape into the past, making it a must-see destination in Sonoma.

A brief summary to General Vallejo's Home

  • Monday 10 am-5 pm
  • Tuesday 10 am-5 pm
  • Wednesday 10 am-5 pm
  • Thursday 10 am-5 pm
  • Friday 10 am-5 pm
  • Saturday 10 am-5 pm
  • Sunday 10 am-5 pm

Local tips

  • Check the schedule for docent-led tours on weekends to gain deeper insights into the history and significance of the home and its furnishings.
  • Pack a picnic to enjoy in the secluded, shaded picnic area, surrounded by the serene beauty of the historic gardens.
  • Combine your visit with a trip to the nearby Sonoma Plaza and Mission San Francisco Solano for a comprehensive exploration of Sonoma's historical landmarks. Admission to General Vallejo's Home includes access to other sites within Sonoma State Historic Park on the day of purchase.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From Sonoma Plaza, General Vallejo's Home is approximately a half-mile walk west along West Spain Street/3rd St. West. Head west from the Plaza, passing the Sonoma Barracks and the Toscano Hotel on your left. Continue along 3rd St. West; the entrance to General Vallejo's Home will be on your left. The walk takes about 10-15 minutes. There are sidewalks along the route.

  • Public Transport

    Sonoma County Transit Route 32, also known as the Sonoma Shuttle, serves the Sonoma Plaza. From the Plaza, transfer to a stop closer to 3rd St West and walk to General Vallejo's Home. The Sonoma Shuttle is free for all riders. Check the Sonoma County Transit website for the most up-to-date schedules.

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    A taxi or ride-share from Sonoma Plaza to General Vallejo's Home is a short ride, costing approximately $10-$15. Specify 'General Vallejo's Home' or 'Lachryma Montis' as your destination. Note that ride-share availability may be limited, especially during off-peak hours.

  • Driving

    From Sonoma Plaza, drive west on West Spain Street, which becomes 3rd St. West. Continue for approximately half a mile. The entrance to General Vallejo's Home will be on your left. Free parking is available in the parking lot at the end of 3rd Street West, adjacent to the Vallejo Home. Parking can be limited during peak season.

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Discover more about General Vallejo's Home

General Vallejo's Home, also known as Lachryma Montis (Latin for 'Tears of the Mountain'), stands as a testament to a pivotal era in California's history. This elegant estate was the final home of General Mariano Guadalupe Vallejo, a dominant figure in early California. Vallejo, a military commander, statesman, and prosperous landowner, played a crucial role in the transition from Mexican rule to American statehood. Mariano Guadalupe Vallejo was born in Monterey, California, in 1807. He rose through the ranks of the Mexican military, eventually becoming commander of the northern frontier. In 1835, he founded the Pueblo de Sonoma, laying the foundation for the town's development. Vallejo's influence extended beyond military affairs; he was a prominent businessman and owned vast ranch lands. In 1849, Vallejo participated in the California Constitutional Convention, advocating for the rights of Californios – the Spanish-speaking residents of California. Despite his efforts, the Californios gradually lost their political and economic power as American settlers flooded the region. Vallejo's personal story reflects the broader narrative of this transition, marked by both opportunity and displacement. Construction on Lachryma Montis began in 1851, with the two-story, wood-frame house completed in 1852. The design, a prime example of Victorian Carpenter Gothic architecture, was actually prefabricated on the East Coast, shipped around Cape Horn, and assembled on-site. The house features a large Gothic window in the master bedroom, twin porches, dormer windows, and elaborate carved wooden trim. Bricks were placed inside the walls to regulate temperature, keeping the house warm in winter and cool in summer. Each room boasted its own white marble fireplace, and crystal chandeliers and lace curtains adorned the interior. The estate's name, Lachryma Montis, is derived from the Native American name for the free-flowing spring on the property, Chiucuyem, meaning 'crying mountain.' Vallejo translated this into Latin, reflecting his education and appreciation for classical culture. The spring not only provided water for the household but also became a source of income, as Vallejo piped the water to the town of Sonoma. The grounds of Lachryma Montis were meticulously landscaped, featuring grapevines, fruit trees, decorative trees, and shrubs. A quarter-mile-long driveway, lined with cottonwood trees and Castilian roses, led to the house. A vine-covered arbor shaded a pathway around the spring-fed pool, and decorative fountains and outbuildings dotted the landscape. The estate also included a large barn, houses for the working staff, a cookhouse, and a special warehouse for storing wine and produce. Over time, General Vallejo faced economic hardships, eventually losing much of his land. In 1933, the State of California acquired the Vallejo home and approximately 20 acres of the original Lachryma Montis lands to preserve this important historical site. Today, the buildings and grounds are carefully maintained, and the house is furnished with many of Vallejo's personal belongings, creating an immersive experience for visitors. Visitors can explore the main house, the museum in the adjacent 'Swiss Chalet' (formerly a wine storage building), and the serene gardens. The museum features exhibits about Vallejo's life and the history of the estate. Docent-led tours are available on weekends, providing deeper insights into the history and architecture of the home. A secluded, shaded picnic area offers a relaxing spot to enjoy the peaceful surroundings. General Vallejo's Home is more than just a historic house; it's a window into the complex history of California, offering a glimpse into the life of a man who played a significant role in shaping the state. A visit to Lachryma Montis provides a unique opportunity to connect with the past and appreciate the rich cultural heritage of Sonoma.

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