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

Step back in time at the meticulously preserved home and gardens of General Vallejo, a key figure in California's history.

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Explore the meticulously preserved estate of General Mariano Guadalupe Vallejo, a pivotal figure in California's transition from Mexican territory to U.S. statehood. Wander through the Victorian-era home, Lachryma Montis, and its tranquil gardens, gaining insight into the life of a prominent Californio leader.

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

  • Combine your visit with other nearby historical sites like the Mission San Francisco Solano and Sonoma Barracks for a comprehensive experience of Sonoma's history.
  • Pack a picnic to enjoy in the secluded, shaded picnic area on the grounds.
  • Visit on a weekday or during the off-season for a quieter, less crowded experience.
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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.

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

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

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Discover more about General Vallejo's Home

General Vallejo's Home, also known as Lachryma Montis ('mountain tear' in Latin, a translation of the Native American name 'Chiucuyem' for a local spring) offers a captivating glimpse into the life of General Mariano Guadalupe Vallejo, a central figure in 19th-century California. Located a half-mile west of Sonoma Plaza, this well-preserved estate provides a window into the world of a prominent Californio leader during a period of immense change. Built in 1851-52, the two-story, wood-frame house showcases a dramatic Carpenter Gothic Victorian style. Prefabricated on the East Coast, it was shipped around Cape Horn and assembled in Sonoma. 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, and each room had a white marble fireplace. The grounds were carefully landscaped with grapevines, fruit trees, and decorative plants. A quarter-mile driveway, lined with cottonwood trees and Castilian roses, led to the house. The estate also included a barn, staff houses, a cookhouse, and a warehouse. The 'Swiss Chalet', originally a warehouse for wine and produce, now serves as a museum and interpretive center. Visitors can explore the home and grounds, furnished with many of Vallejo's personal effects. The museum displays artifacts and documents related to Vallejo's life and the history of the region. A secluded, shaded picnic area is also available. The site is part of Sonoma State Historic Park, which includes other historical landmarks such as Mission San Francisco Solano and the Sonoma Barracks.

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