Background

C. A. Belden House: A Queen Anne Gem

Admire the architectural splendor of the C. A. Belden House, a Queen Anne masterpiece in San Francisco's prestigious Pacific Heights, reflecting the city's Victorian heritage and opulent past.

5

The C. A. Belden House, a stunning example of Queen Anne architecture, graces the Pacific Heights neighborhood of San Francisco. Designed by Walter J. Mathews and completed in 1889, this historic home stands as a testament to the city's Victorian-era elegance. Its asymmetrical facade, steeply pitched gable roof, and two corner turrets adorned with conical roofs make it a captivating sight. The house's exterior is further embellished with fish-scale shingles, horizontal wooden siding, and intricately carved details, showcasing the exuberance of the Queen Anne style. Facing Lafayette Park, the Belden House offers a glimpse into the opulent lifestyle of late 19th-century San Francisco and is a must-see for architecture enthusiasts and history buffs alike. While a private residence, its exterior is a delight to behold, contributing to the unique charm of Pacific Heights.

A brief summary to C. A. Belden House

  • 2004 Gough St, San Francisco, Pacific Heights, California, 94109, US

Local tips

  • View the house from Lafayette Park for the best perspective of its facade and architectural details.
  • Explore the surrounding Pacific Heights neighborhood for more stunning Victorian and Edwardian homes.
  • Visit the nearby Haas-Lilienthal House for a glimpse inside a preserved Victorian mansion.
widget icon

Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From downtown San Francisco, take the Muni bus lines 1, 49, or 45 towards Pacific Heights. Exit at the intersection of Fillmore Street and Clay Street. Walk east along Clay Street for two blocks, then turn left onto Gough Street. The C. A. Belden House will be on your right, facing Lafayette Park. A single Muni fare is $3.00, payable with cash or the MuniMobile app.

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    From Union Square, a taxi or ride-share (Uber/Lyft) to the C. A. Belden House at 2004 Gough Street will typically cost between $15 and $25, depending on traffic and demand. The journey usually takes 10-15 minutes. Ask your driver to drop you off on Gough Street, facing Lafayette Park, for the best view of the house.

  • Walking

    If you are already in Pacific Heights, for example near Fillmore Street, you can easily walk to the C. A. Belden House. From Fillmore and Pacific Avenue, walk east on Pacific Avenue towards Lafayette Park. Turn right onto Gough Street. The C. A. Belden House will be on your left, facing the park. The walk is approximately 10-15 minutes.

Unlock the Best of C. A. Belden House

Buy tickets

    No tickets available

Book tours with entry

    No tours available

Book tours without entry

    No tours available

Discover more about C. A. Belden House

The C. A. Belden House, located at 2004 Gough Street in San Francisco's prestigious Pacific Heights neighborhood, is a remarkable example of Queen Anne architecture. Designed by Walter J. Mathews, a prominent Bay Area architect, and completed in 1889, the house is a testament to the opulence and architectural trends of the late Victorian era. It was added to the National Register of Historic Places on August 11, 1983, solidifying its place as a significant landmark in the city. The house was originally built for Charles A. Belden, the treasurer of W. W. Montague & Company, an importing firm specializing in stoves and metals. The Belden family resided in the house until 1900. In 1907, John A. Buck, the vice-president of the National Ice and Cold Storage Company, purchased the property. The Buck family owned the house until 1961, during which time it was converted into a home for elderly women after John Buck's death in 1923. In 1967, John Fell Stevenson, son of Adlai Stevenson II, and his wife acquired the house and lived there until 1973. Throughout its history, the C. A. Belden House has been carefully maintained and restored, preserving its architectural integrity. The C. A. Belden House stands out as a pure expression of the Queen Anne style, a rarity in San Francisco, where Victorian-era buildings often incorporate elements from other architectural movements. The house is a three-story structure with a steeply pitched gable roof and two prominent corner turrets topped with conical roofs. The facade is a delightful mix of textures and materials, with fish-scale shingles adorning the turrets and first floor, while the rest of the house is clad in horizontal wooden siding. The south-facing entrance features a one-story porch with a turned wooden balustrade. The main facade, which faces Lafayette Park, is richly decorated with carved and plaster details that have been described as "patterns appliqued on a Victorian sampler." The pediment under the gable is intricately carved, and two sunbursts flank a pair of windows on the third floor. Below an arched window porch on the second floor, a panel features a grinning mythological beast, adding a touch of whimsy to the design. The house's style has been characterized as "[a] full flowering of Queen Anne exuberance". The location of the C. A. Belden House further enhances its prominence. Situated in the center of the Gough Street block, it faces Lafayette Park, providing a visually striking presence in the neighborhood. The house's scale and architectural integrity contribute to its significance as a reminder of the fashionable Pacific Heights of a bygone era. Pacific Heights itself is known for its stunning homes, panoramic views, and high-end shopping and dining on Fillmore Street. The neighborhood boasts an impressive mix of architectural styles, including Victorian, Edwardian, and Chateau-style homes, making it a captivating destination for architecture enthusiasts. While the C. A. Belden House remains a private residence, its exterior is a sight to behold. Visitors can admire its Queen Anne details, including the steep gable roof, corner turrets, fish-scale shingles, and carved ornamentation. The house's location across from Lafayette Park provides an ideal vantage point for appreciating its architectural beauty. The surrounding neighborhood of Pacific Heights offers additional attractions, such as the Haas-Lilienthal House, a beautifully preserved Victorian mansion open to the public, and the McElroy Octagon House, an eight-sided home dating back to 1861 that now serves as a museum of early American decorative arts. Exploring Pacific Heights also offers opportunities to discover hidden gems, such as local art galleries, neighborhood cafes, and secret gardens. Fillmore Street, the heart of Pacific Heights, is a lively stretch filled with unique shops, cozy cafes, and restaurants. Visitors can stroll along Fillmore Street, browse the boutiques, and savor the local flavor at top restaurants. The Lyon Street Steps provide spectacular views of the Golden Gate Bridge, Alcatraz, and the San Francisco Bay. Alta Plaza Park and Lafayette Park offer additional green spaces for relaxation and recreation. The C. A. Belden House stands as a symbol of San Francisco's architectural heritage and the grandeur of the Queen Anne style. Its intricate details, prominent location, and rich history make it a captivating landmark in Pacific Heights. While it remains a private residence, its exterior is a testament to the city's Victorian-era elegance and a must-see for architecture enthusiasts and history buffs alike. A visit to the C. A. Belden House offers a glimpse into the opulent lifestyle of late 19th-century San Francisco and a chance to appreciate the architectural beauty of one of the city's most prestigious neighborhoods.

Popular Experiences near C. A. Belden House

Popular Hotels near C. A. Belden House

Select Currency