Pardee Home Museum: A Glimpse into Oakland's Past

Explore Oakland's past at the Pardee Home Museum, a preserved Italianate villa showcasing three generations of the influential Pardee family and their eclectic collections from 1869-1981.

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Pardee Home Museum

Step back in time at the Pardee Home Museum, a beautifully preserved Italianate villa in downtown Oakland. Built in 1868-69 by Enoch Pardee, a Gold Rush doctor and former Oakland mayor, the house remained in the Pardee family for three generations, offering a unique window into their lives from 1869 to 1981. The museum showcases original furnishings, eclectic collections, and a historic redwood carriage house, all meticulously maintained. Explore the formal parlors, bedrooms, and even the cupola for panoramic views. The surrounding gardens provide a tranquil escape, making it a must-see for history buffs and architecture enthusiasts seeking an authentic glimpse into Oakland's vibrant past. Regular tours are available, providing insights into the Pardee family's contributions to the city and state.

A brief summary to Pardee Home Museum

672 11th St, Oakland, Downtown Oakland, California, 94607, US
+1510-444-2187
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Local tips

Check the Pardee Home Museum's website for the tour schedule, as tours are only offered on select Saturdays and by appointment.
Admission is by donation, with a suggested donation of $10 per person, but any amount is appreciated to support the museum's preservation efforts.
Allow at least 1.5 hours for the guided tour to fully appreciate the history and collections within the house and carriage house.
Consider booking a private tea party in advance for a unique and elegant experience in the museum's dining room or gardens.
Combine your visit with a stroll through nearby Preservation Park, a collection of Victorian buildings, for a deeper dive into Oakland's historical architecture.

Getting There

Public Transport

The Pardee Home Museum is easily accessible via public transportation. From the 12th St. BART station, it's a pleasant four-block walk through City Center, past the Federal Building, and through Preservation Park. Alternatively, AC Transit bus lines 14 and 62 provide direct service to the house on 11th and 12th Streets. A single adult AC Transit fare is $2.10, payable with cash (exact change) or a Clipper Card. Clipper cards offer a discount and can be used on BART and other Bay Area transit systems.
Driving

If driving, the Pardee Home Museum is located near Interstate 980. Motorists should exit off I-580 onto I-980 and take the exit marked “11th and 12th Streets.” Turn left on 11th and the house is clearly visible once you cross over the freeway. There is no parking on 11th Street, but free, two-hour parking is available on Castro or Martin Luther King Jr. Streets, and metered parking is available on 12th Street. The City Center West parking garage, located a block away at 1250 Martin Luther King Way (corner of 12th and Martin Luther King) is open Monday through Friday and offers discounted parking to customers with validation at the Museum. Parking rates vary, but expect to pay around $10-$20 for a few hours.
Taxi/Ride-Share

Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are readily available in Oakland. A ride from the 12th St. BART station to the Pardee Home Museum would typically cost between $8 and $15, depending on demand and traffic.

Discover more about Pardee Home Museum

The Pardee Home Museum, nestled in the heart of downtown Oakland, offers a captivating journey into the lives of one of the city's most influential families. Built in the Italianate style in 1868-69 by Dr. Enoch Pardee, a Gold Rush immigrant who became a prominent eye doctor and politician, the house served as the Pardee family residence for over a century. Today, it stands as a remarkable testament to their legacy and a window into a bygone era. Enoch Pardee's story is one of ambition and success. Arriving in California during the Gold Rush, he transitioned from mining to medicine, eventually becoming a respected ophthalmologist. His public service career included terms as mayor of Oakland, state assemblyman, and state senator. The house he built reflected his growing prominence and served as a center for family and social life. Later, his son, George Pardee, followed in his father's footsteps, also becoming an eye doctor and mayor of Oakland, and was elected Governor of California in 1902. A significant event during his time as governor was the 1906 earthquake, which devastated San Francisco and led to a doubling of Oakland's population as refugees sought shelter. George Pardee also played a crucial role in the creation of the East Bay Municipal Utility District (EBMUD), ensuring a reliable water supply for the region. The museum's charm lies in its authenticity. Unlike many historic house museums that are restored to a specific period, the Pardee Home has been preserved as it was when the last family members, Madeline and Helen Pardee, lived there until their deaths in the early 1980s. This creates a unique and intimate atmosphere, allowing visitors to experience the house as a living space rather than a static display. The interior is filled with original furnishings and an astonishing array of collections amassed by the Pardee family, particularly Helen Pardee, Governor Pardee's wife, who was a passionate collector. The 70,000 objects range from fine art and antique furniture to curiosities from around the world, including scrimshaw from Alaska, candlesticks from India, altar pieces from China, and weapons from Africa. Each room tells a story, reflecting the family's diverse interests and travels. A guided tour of the Pardee Home takes visitors through the formal parlors, dining room, bedrooms, and even the cupola, offering panoramic views of Oakland. The tour guides share fascinating anecdotes about the Pardee family and the history of the house, bringing the past to life. The all-redwood carriage house, a rare survivor in downtown Oakland, is another highlight, showcasing horse stalls, a tack room, and a hayloft. The gardens surrounding the house provide a tranquil oasis in the midst of the city. The meticulously maintained grounds feature a variety of plants and flowers, offering a peaceful retreat for visitors. The gardens can also be rented for special events, such as weddings and receptions. The Pardee Home Museum is more than just a historic house; it's a cultural landmark that embodies the spirit of Oakland. It offers a unique opportunity to connect with the past, appreciate the contributions of the Pardee family, and discover the rich history of this dynamic city. Visiting the Pardee Home Museum is an enriching experience for anyone interested in history, architecture, or the cultural heritage of Oakland. The museum's authentic atmosphere, diverse collections, and knowledgeable guides make it a truly memorable destination. Whether you're a local resident or a visitor from afar, the Pardee Home Museum is a must-see attraction that will leave you with a deeper appreciation for Oakland's past and present. The Pardee Home Museum stands as a testament to the enduring legacy of a family deeply intertwined with the history of Oakland and California. Its preservation offers a unique opportunity to step back in time and experience the world through their eyes. The museum's commitment to education and preservation ensures that future generations will continue to learn from and appreciate this remarkable treasure. Beyond its historical significance, the Pardee Home Museum serves as a vibrant community resource, hosting events, workshops, and educational programs that engage people of all ages. It is a place where history comes alive, where stories are shared, and where connections are made. The museum's welcoming atmosphere and dedicated staff create a sense of belonging, making it a cherished landmark for the entire Oakland community. The Pardee Home Museum is a true gem of Oakland, offering a unique and unforgettable experience for all who visit. Its rich history, authentic atmosphere, and commitment to education and preservation make it a must-see destination for anyone interested in the cultural heritage of the Bay Area.

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Pardee Home Museum: A Glimpse into Oakland's Past

A brief summary to Pardee Home Museum

Local tips

Getting There

Public Transport

Driving

Taxi/Ride-Share

Unlock the Best of Pardee Home Museum

Buy tickets

Book tours with entry

Book tours without entry

Discover more about Pardee Home Museum

Iconic landmarks you can’t miss

Alameda County Historical Society

Preservation Park

First Unitarian Church of Oakland

Oakland City Hall

Oakland Marriott City Center

Frank H. Ogawa Plaza

8th St & Broadway

Remember Them

Oakland Chinatown Chamber of Commerce

Jack London Park

Lincoln Square Park

Port of Oakland

Chinese Garden Park

Visit Oakland

The Embrace

Unmissable attractions to see

African American Museum and Library at Oakland

Museum of Children's Art

The Museum of Art and Digital Entertainment - (The MADE)

Old Oakland Farmers' Market

The Jack London Oak

Cathedral Building

Henry J. Kaiser Memorial Park

Fox Theater

Remembrance is Power Mural

Paramount Theatre Oakland

Original Pattern Brewing

Jack London Statue

USNS John Glenn

Jack London Square

Snow Park

Essential places to dine

Rio California

Clove and Hoof

The Cook and Her Farmer

understory oakland

District Oakland

Iron & Oak Restaurant and Bar

Saucy Oakland

Curry Up Now

Shinmai

Oakland Street Food Co.

Hopscotch Catering & Takeout

Gum Kuo

Peony Seafood Restaurant

New Gold Medal Restaurant

Ming's Tasty

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14th Stop & Shop

Proper Fashions Boutique

Book/Shop

Fonzie's Artisanal Goods

H way gift shop

Oaklandish

House of Fortune

Oakland gift and smoke shop

Milam Gift Shop

Elegant Studio & Boutique

ChinaVille

Oakland Chinese Book Store

Narrative

Queen Hippie Gypsy

Exotic Gift Shop

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Penelope

Binny's Cocktail Bar & Restaurant

Oeste - Bar