Woodside Store Park, San Francisco Peninsula Travel Guide

Nestled amidst towering redwood, oak, and Douglas fir trees in the quaint town of Woodside, California, Woodside Store Park offers visitors a unique opportunity to step back in time and experience life in the mid-19th century. This meticulously preserved historical landmark, once a bustling general store, provides a captivating glimpse into the daily lives of early settlers, lumberjacks, and pioneers who shaped the region's rich history. The Woodside Store's story began in 1849 when Matthias Alfred Parkhurst, a young entrepreneur, purchased a vast tract of land near old Mexican saw pits. Partnering with Dr. Robert Orville Tripp, a dentist, they established a shingle-making and lumbering operation. Recognizing the need for essential supplies in the burgeoning community, they opened a small store in 1850. As stage service began to their store in the Red Woods in 1853, they renamed their business site Woodside. A year later, they built a new store, the present building. The Woodside Store quickly became the heart of the community, serving as the only general store on the Peninsula between Mission Dolores in San Francisco and Santa Clara. It provided essential goods such as clothing, liquor, wine, hardware supplies, food, and medicine to the growing population of lumbermen, teamsters, blacksmiths, wagon makers, and storekeepers who flocked to the area during the Gold Rush era. Beyond its role as a mercantile establishment, the Woodside Store also served as a vital community hub. It housed the only U.S. Post Office in the redwoods, providing a crucial link to the outside world. It also functioned as a bank, safeguarding the community's valuables in its secure safe. Adding to its diverse functions, Dr. Tripp, a skilled dentist, even provided dental services from a chair within the store, tending to the needs of the hardworking lumberjacks. The original building was destroyed by fire in 1854, but Parkhurst and Tripp quickly rebuilt, constructing the present-day structure that stands as a testament to their resilience and commitment to the community. The store's strategic location made it a popular stagecoach stop, further solidifying its importance as a gathering place for travelers and locals alike. Over the years, the Woodside Store witnessed significant changes in the region. The lumber industry flourished, transforming the landscape and attracting a diverse population. The store adapted to meet the evolving needs of the community, offering a wide range of goods and services that catered to the changing times. Parkhurst died in 1863, and Dr. Tripp continued to operate the store until his death in 1909. He became a legendary character, his name synonymous with Woodside. During his lifetime, Tripp was a San Francisco county supervisor, U.S postmaster, San Mateo County deputy sheriff, public administrator, deputy assessor, and custodian of the library. In 1940, recognizing its historical significance, the County of San Mateo purchased the Woodside Store. It was listed as a State Registered Landmark in 1949. The San Mateo County Historical Association played a crucial role in advocating for the store's preservation and restoration. Today, the Woodside Store stands as a fully restored house museum, offering visitors an immersive experience of life in the 1880s. The store is stocked with period items, providing an accurate representation of what this important gathering spot was like nearly one and a half centuries ago. Knowledgeable docents from the San Mateo County Historical Association are on hand to provide drop-in history lessons and answer questions, bringing the past to life for visitors of all ages. Visitors can explore the various sections of the store, including the general merchandise area, the post office, and Dr. Tripp's dental office. Artifacts on display reflect the diverse activities that occurred within the store's walls, offering insights into the daily lives of the people who lived and worked in the Woodside area. Woodside Store Park also features a small parking lot and restroom facilities for visitors' convenience. The park is open to the public on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. and on Saturdays and Sundays from 12 p.m. to 4 p.m. Admission and parking are free, making it an accessible and affordable destination for families and history enthusiasts. For those seeking an even more immersive experience, the park hosts "Old Woodside Store Day" on the first Sunday of May each year. During this special event, visitors can participate in old-time activities and craft-making demonstrations, gaining a hands-on understanding of the skills and traditions of the past. The Woodside Store is surrounded by magnificent redwood, oak and Douglas fir trees. Animals commonly spotted in this area include black-tailed deer, bobcats, brush rabbits, coyotes. A visit to Woodside Store Park is not just a journey into the past; it's an opportunity to connect with the spirit of community, resilience, and innovation that shaped the region. It's a chance to learn about the challenges and triumphs of early settlers, the importance of the lumber industry, and the vital role that the Woodside Store played in the lives of countless individuals. Whether you're a history buff, a nature lover, or simply seeking a unique and enriching experience, Woodside Store Park offers something for everyone. Come and discover the magic of this hidden gem and create memories that will last a lifetime.