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The Glass House Museum: A Victorian Gem in San Ramon

Discover Victorian life at the Glass House Museum in San Ramon, a beautifully preserved 1877 Italianate home offering free tours and a glimpse into the past within Forest Home Farms Historic Park.

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Step back in time at the Glass House Museum, a beautifully restored Italianate Victorian home built in 1877. Located in San Ramon's Forest Home Farms Historic Park, this museum offers a glimpse into the life of the Glass family and the Victorian era in the San Ramon Valley. Explore the nine-room house, admire its architecture, and learn about the family's history and contributions to the community. With free tours led by knowledgeable docents, the Glass House Museum provides an enriching and memorable experience for visitors of all ages. Surrounded by landscaped grounds, it's a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle, offering a unique connection to San Ramon's past.

A brief summary to Glass House Museum

Local tips

  • Check the San Ramon Historic Foundation website for the most up-to-date tour schedule, as docent availability can vary.
  • Combine your visit with a tour of Forest Home Farms Historic Park to fully immerse yourself in the agricultural history of the San Ramon Valley.
  • Bring a camera to capture the architectural details of the house and the picturesque surroundings of Forest Home Farms.
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Getting There

  • Driving

    If driving from I-680, exit at Bollinger Canyon Road and head east. Turn right onto San Ramon Valley Blvd. The entrance to Forest Home Farms Historic Park will be on your right in approximately 1 mile. Parking is free in the dirt lot. Note that parking can be limited during peak hours or special events.

  • Public Transport

    From the San Ramon Transit Center, take County Connection bus line 35 towards Walnut Creek BART Station. Get off at the San Ramon Valley Blvd & Market Place stop. From there, walk north on San Ramon Valley Blvd for about 0.2 miles. The entrance to Forest Home Farms Historic Park will be on your right. A single ride on County Connection costs $2.50 for adults, or $1.25 for seniors (65+) and disabled riders.

  • Walking

    If you are starting from the San Ramon Community Center located at 12501 Alcosta Blvd, San Ramon, CA 94583, head south on Alcosta Blvd toward the intersection with San Ramon Valley Blvd. Continue straight on Alcosta Blvd for about 0.5 miles until you reach the traffic light at San Ramon Valley Blvd. Turn right onto San Ramon Valley Blvd. Continue walking for about 0.3 miles, and you will find the Glass House Museum at 21103 San Ramon Valley Blvd on your left side.

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Discover more about Glass House Museum

The Glass House Museum, nestled within Forest Home Farms Historic Park in San Ramon, California, stands as a captivating testament to Victorian life in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. This meticulously restored Italianate Victorian home, built in 1877 for David and Eliza Glass, offers visitors an immersive journey into the past, showcasing the lifestyle and contributions of a prominent family in the San Ramon Valley. David Glass, a rancher and farmer, commissioned the construction of the house, which was considered quite striking for its time in the rural community. The two-story, nine-room structure, complete with a separate kitchen and tank house, reflects the architectural trends of the era and the family's aspirations. The house remained in the Glass family until 1932. In 1932, Pierre and Gracieuse Elissondo purchased the Glass House and the surrounding land. They lived there with their family and opened a restaurant called The Farmhouse Inn, which operated from 1932-1938. In 1998, the City of San Ramon acquired the property and relocated the Glass House to its current location within Forest Home Farms Historic Park to preserve it as a museum. The museum's exhibits and guided tours provide insights into various aspects of Victorian life, from domestic routines and social customs to the challenges and opportunities of living in a rural community. Visitors can explore the various rooms of the house, each furnished with period-appropriate pieces and artifacts that evoke the atmosphere of the late 1800s. Knowledgeable docents share stories about the Glass family, their involvement in the community, and the historical context of the era. The architectural details of the Glass House are a significant draw for visitors. The Italianate style, characterized by its symmetrical facade, bracketed eaves, and tall windows, reflects the sophisticated tastes of the time. The house's exterior has been carefully restored to its original beauty, and the surrounding landscaping is being recreated to resemble a 1890s photograph, further enhancing the immersive experience. Beyond its architectural and historical significance, the Glass House Museum serves as a valuable educational resource for the community. Schoolchildren and adults alike can participate in tours and programs that bring history to life, fostering a deeper understanding of the past and its connection to the present. The museum also hosts special events and exhibits throughout the year, offering unique opportunities to engage with local history and culture. Forest Home Farms Historic Park, where the Glass House Museum is located, adds another layer of interest to the visit. The park itself is a preserved farm from the same era, with historic buildings, gardens, and exhibits that showcase the agricultural heritage of the San Ramon Valley. Visitors can explore the farm, learn about traditional farming practices, and enjoy the peaceful surroundings. The Glass House Museum is more than just a collection of artifacts; it's a living testament to the past, offering a glimpse into the lives of those who shaped the San Ramon Valley. Whether you're a history buff, an architecture enthusiast, or simply looking for a unique and enriching experience, the Glass House Museum is a must-see destination in San Ramon.

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