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Long-Waterman House: A Victorian Gem in Bankers Hill

Experience the grandeur of San Diego's past at the Long-Waterman House, a meticulously preserved Queen Anne Victorian mansion in the heart of historic Bankers Hill, near Balboa Park.

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The Long-Waterman House, a stunning example of American Queen Anne architecture, stands proudly in San Diego's historic Bankers Hill neighborhood. Built in 1889, this meticulously preserved mansion was once home to California Governor Robert Whitney Waterman and has been a landmark for over a century. Admire its ornate porch, towering presence, and the intricate details that define its Victorian charm. While a private residence, the exterior offers a glimpse into a bygone era of elegance and grandeur. Located a short walk from Balboa Park, it's a perfect stop for architecture enthusiasts and history buffs exploring San Diego's cultural heart. The Long-Waterman House offers a captivating glimpse into San Diego's past, showcasing the opulent lifestyle of the city's elite during the late 19th century.

A brief summary to Long-Waterman House

  • 2408 First Ave., San Diego, Bankers Hill, California, 92101, US

Local tips

  • Combine your visit with a stroll through Balboa Park, located just a short walk away, to experience San Diego's cultural heart.
  • Take your time to admire the intricate architectural details of the house's exterior, showcasing the exuberance of the Queen Anne style.
  • Explore the Bankers Hill neighborhood, known for its other historic Victorian homes and charming streets.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From Balboa Park, head west along Laurel Street. Turn left onto First Avenue. The Long-Waterman House will be on your left, a few blocks down. The walk is relatively flat and takes about 7 minutes. Be mindful of street parking restrictions. Limited street parking is available, so allow extra time to find a spot. Check signs carefully for restrictions. Alternatively, consider parking in Balboa Park and walking over.

  • Public Transport

    Several bus lines serve the Bankers Hill area. From downtown San Diego, take bus routes 3 or 120 towards Bankers Hill. Exit at the 1st Avenue & Laurel Street stop, which is the closest to the Long-Waterman House. A single ride on San Diego's MTS bus system costs $2.50. From the bus stop, walk south along 1st Avenue for a block. The Long-Waterman House will be on your right.

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    From downtown San Diego or the airport, a taxi or ride-share service (Uber/Lyft) is a convenient option. The ride to the Long-Waterman House from downtown typically costs between $8 and $12, depending on traffic. From the airport, expect to pay around $20-$24. Simply provide the address, 2408 First Avenue, San Diego, CA 92101, to the driver. Ask your driver to drop you off directly in front of the house for easy access.

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Discover more about Long-Waterman House

The Long-Waterman House, located in the prestigious Bankers Hill neighborhood of San Diego, is a captivating testament to the city's rich history and architectural heritage. This grand Victorian mansion, built in 1889, stands as one of the finest examples of American Queen Anne style architecture in Southern California. Its prominent location at 2408 First Avenue offers visitors a glimpse into a bygone era of elegance and sophistication. Originally constructed for John S. Long, a prominent businessman and one of the founders of the Coronado Fruit Package Company, the house was designed by the talented Irish architect, Domenick P. Benson. Benson, known for his elaborate interior woodwork and Victorian-style homes, created a true masterpiece with the Long-Waterman House. The house boasts a wealth of architectural details, including a dome-topped tower, a wraparound gingerbread porch, and meticulously crafted ornamentation throughout. In 1891, the mansion was purchased by Robert Whitney Waterman, who had just completed his term as the 17th Governor of California. Waterman intended to retire in the opulent home, but sadly, he passed away just a few months later. The house was then acquired in 1897 by Fred R. Hart, and it remained in his family's possession for nearly a century, solidifying its place as a cherished landmark in San Diego. The Long-Waterman House is characterized by its elaborate Queen Anne features, showcasing the exuberance and decorative excess of the Victorian era. The exterior is drenched in detail, from the attic eyebrow dormers and ornamented bargeboards to the elegant finials rising from the crests. The tower's dome is roofed with diamond-shaped terne plate, adding to its distinctive silhouette. The wraparound front porch is a mélange of fretting and turned spindles, their blocky shapes inset with rosettes. Spandrels are cut with a sunburst design, and sawn balusters lined with a circular cutout pattern complete the intricate façade. Inside, the house is equally impressive. The grand foyer features a diamond-pattern floor done in three colors of slate, a mahogany fireplace, and an artisan-stained leaded glass window. The home boasts four intricate fireplaces, each carved from different kinds of wood and adorned with original glazed tiles and cast iron gates. The tiles are believed to have been created by the American Encaustic Tiling Company, adding to the home's historical significance. Throughout its history, the Long-Waterman House has been lovingly preserved by owners who appreciated its architectural and historical value. In 1977, John Parker, owner of KYKY Radio, purchased the home and undertook a four-year renovation project to restore it to its original glory. The home's paint was stripped to the original wood, the wallpaper was removed, and the interior woodwork was stripped and restained. The kitchen was modernized, chimney stacks were repaired, mechanical systems were updated, and new landscaping was installed. The Long-Waterman House is not only a beautiful architectural landmark but also a significant piece of San Diego's social history. It has hosted numerous weddings, garden parties, and community events, serving as a gathering place for the city's elite. The house is listed on the National Register of Historic Places, further solidifying its importance as a cultural treasure. Today, the Long-Waterman House stands as a reminder of San Diego's golden age, a time of prosperity and growth that shaped the city's identity. Its location in Bankers Hill, a neighborhood known for its historic Victorian homes and proximity to Balboa Park, makes it a must-see destination for architecture enthusiasts, history buffs, and anyone seeking a glimpse into San Diego's past. While the house is a private residence and not open for public tours, its exterior is easily admired from the street, offering a captivating glimpse into the opulence and grandeur of a bygone era. A walk around the property allows visitors to appreciate the intricate details and craftsmanship that make this house a true architectural masterpiece. The Long-Waterman House is a reminder of the beauty and elegance that can be found in the heart of San Diego.

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