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Queen Anne Cottage: A Victorian Gem in Arcadia

Discover Victorian elegance at the Queen Anne Cottage in Arcadia's Los Angeles County Arboretum & Botanic Garden, a historic landmark showcasing Lucky Baldwin's legacy and architectural splendor.

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Step back in time at the Queen Anne Cottage, a beautifully preserved Victorian-era house nestled within the Los Angeles County Arboretum & Botanic Garden in Arcadia, California. Built in 1885 by Elias Jackson "Lucky" Baldwin, this architectural gem showcases the elegance and opulence of the late 19th century. Admire the intricate stained-glass windows, luxurious chandeliers, and period furnishings that evoke the charm of a bygone era. Surrounded by lush gardens and serene landscapes, the Queen Anne Cottage offers a captivating glimpse into the life and times of Lucky Baldwin and the Victorian elite. It's a must-see destination for history buffs, architecture enthusiasts, and anyone seeking a tranquil escape.

A brief summary to Queen Anne Cottage

Local tips

  • Check the Arboretum's website for the limited dates when interior tours of the Queen Anne Cottage are available.
  • Visit during the spring to see the gardens in full bloom, enhancing the cottage's picturesque setting.
  • Bring your camera to capture the stunning architecture and the beautiful surrounding landscape.
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Getting There

  • Driving

    If driving from the I-210 freeway, exit at Baldwin Avenue and head south for approximately 3 miles. The Los Angeles County Arboretum & Botanic Garden, where the Queen Anne Cottage is located, will be on your left at 301 N Baldwin Ave. Parking is free.

  • Public Transport

    To reach the Queen Anne Cottage via public transportation, take the Metro Gold Line to the Arcadia station. From the station, walk to the bus stop at Santa Anita Ave and Duarte Rd and board the Foothill Transit Line 187 towards Arcadia Park and Ride. Get off at Baldwin Ave and Huntington Dr, then walk south on Baldwin Ave for about 5 minutes to reach the Arboretum. Remember to check the bus schedule for current times and fares. A single ride on Foothill Transit costs $1.00.

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Discover more about Queen Anne Cottage

The Queen Anne Cottage, located within the Los Angeles County Arboretum & Botanic Garden in Arcadia, California, is a captivating testament to Victorian-era elegance and the fascinating history of its creator, Elias Jackson "Lucky" Baldwin. Constructed in 1885, the cottage stands as a remarkable example of Queen Anne style architecture, showcasing the opulence and intricate detailing that defined the period. Elias Jackson "Lucky" Baldwin was a prominent figure in California's history, a successful entrepreneur, real estate investor, and horse breeder. He made his fortune during the Gold Rush, not by mining gold himself, but by providing essential services and supplies to the miners. With his wealth, Baldwin acquired vast tracts of land, including the Rancho Santa Anita, where he established his grand estate. The Queen Anne Cottage was designed by architect Albert A. Bennett, reportedly as a honeymoon gift for Baldwin's fourth wife, Lillie Bennett. However, the couple separated shortly after the cottage's completion, and it never served as their marital home. Instead, Baldwin transformed the cottage into a memorial to his third wife, Jennie Dexter, who had passed away in 1881. He adorned the cottage with a stained-glass portrait of Jennie and an almost life-size oil painting, both of which remain on display today. The cottage served as a guest house for the Santa Anita Ranch, hosting friends, relatives, and business associates of Lucky Baldwin, including stars from his Baldwin Theater in San Francisco. It was a place of lavish entertainment and relaxation, reflecting Baldwin's flamboyant personality and extravagant lifestyle. The Queen Anne Cottage is characterized by its asymmetrical design, steeply pitched roofs, ornate gables, and decorative detailing. The exterior features a wraparound porch, providing stunning views of the surrounding gardens and Baldwin Lake. One notable feature of the porch is a full-length mirror, rumored to have been placed there for Baldwin's female guests to check their attire or, more likely, to satisfy his own vanity. The interior of the cottage is equally impressive, with its intricate stained-glass windows, black walnut doors, and marble fireplace mantels. The rooms are furnished with period pieces, recreating the atmosphere of a Victorian-era home. The stained-glass windows depict various scenes and figures, including a portrait of Lord Byron and images of scantily clad maidens. The parlor features a stuffed royal blue peacock, a nod to Baldwin's favorite color and his introduction of peacocks to Southern California. After Baldwin's death in 1909, his daughter Anita closed the cottage and disposed of its furnishings. Fortunately, she preserved many of the architectural elements, such as the stained-glass windows and fireplace mantels, storing them in the Coach Barn. These elements were reinstalled during the cottage's restoration in the 1950s. The Queen Anne Cottage has also gained fame as a filming location, appearing in numerous movies and television shows, most notably as the main house in the television series "Fantasy Island." Its picturesque setting and Victorian charm have made it a popular choice for filmmakers seeking a touch of old-world elegance. Today, the Queen Anne Cottage stands as a beloved landmark within the Los Angeles County Arboretum & Botanic Garden. While public tours of the interior are limited to only a few days each year, visitors can admire the cottage from the outside and explore the surrounding gardens. The cottage serves as a reminder of Lucky Baldwin's legacy and the rich history of the Santa Anita Ranch. The Los Angeles County Arboretum & Botanic Garden itself is a sprawling 127-acre oasis, featuring a diverse collection of plants from around the world. Visitors can explore themed gardens, such as the Aquatic Garden, the Herb Garden, and the Rose Garden, as well as historical landmarks like the Reid-Baldwin Adobe and the Santa Anita Depot. The Arboretum offers a variety of activities and events throughout the year, including concerts, nature classes, and horticultural workshops. It's a popular destination for families, nature lovers, and anyone seeking a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. Visiting the Queen Anne Cottage and the Los Angeles County Arboretum & Botanic Garden is an opportunity to step back in time and experience the beauty and grandeur of a bygone era. It's a chance to learn about the history of Lucky Baldwin and the Santa Anita Ranch, to admire the intricate details of Victorian architecture, and to immerse oneself in the tranquility of nature.

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