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Harris Lass House Museum: A Glimpse into Santa Clara's Past

Discover Santa Clara's agricultural heritage at the Harris Lass House Museum, a preserved 1864 Italianate farmhouse showcasing 19th-century life with original artifacts and charming gardens.

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Step back in time at the Harris Lass House Museum, Santa Clara's last remaining farmhouse, a beautifully preserved Italianate-style home built in 1864. Named for the Harris and Lass families who resided here for 125 years, the museum offers a captivating look at 19th and early 20th-century life in the Santa Clara Valley. Explore the meticulously restored house, featuring original family antiques and artifacts, and wander through the charming gardens, classic California barn, summer kitchen, and tank house. With guided tours and special events, the Harris Lass House Museum provides an engaging and educational experience for visitors of all ages, offering a unique perspective on the region's rich agricultural heritage and the lives of its early settlers. It's a testament to simpler times and a reminder of the valley's transformation.

A brief summary to Harris Lass House Museum

Local tips

  • Check the Harris Lass House Museum website or call ahead for the most up-to-date information on tour schedules and special events, as hours may vary.
  • Explore the gardens and grounds surrounding the house, including the barn, summer kitchen, and tank house, to get a complete picture of 19th-century farm life.
  • Consider visiting during one of the museum's special events, such as the annual flea market or holiday celebrations, for a more festive and engaging experience.
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Getting There

  • Driving

    If driving, approach the Harris Lass House Museum via Market Street. The museum is located at 1889 Market Street, west of Winchester Boulevard. Free parking is available in the museum parking lot and on the north side of Market Street adjacent to the museum property. Additional parking may be found on the south side of Market Street and nearby side streets. Be aware that parking can be limited during special events.

  • Public Transport

    For those using public transportation, the Valley Transportation Authority (VTA) offers bus service in the area. Check the VTA website for the most convenient bus routes and schedules to reach Market Street near the museum. From the bus stop, it's a short walk to 1889 Market Street. A single VTA bus fare is $2.50.

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are readily available in Santa Clara. Request a ride to 1889 Market Street, Santa Clara. The cost for a short ride within Santa Clara to the museum typically ranges from $8 to $15, depending on the distance and demand.

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Discover more about Harris Lass House Museum

The Harris Lass House Museum, nestled in the heart of Santa Clara, stands as a poignant reminder of the region's agricultural past. This beautifully preserved Italianate-style farmhouse, built in 1864, offers visitors a unique opportunity to step back in time and experience life as it was for the Harris and Lass families who called this place home for over a century. The story begins with Henry Harris, an English cabinet maker, and his wife Mary, who immigrated to California from Australia during the Gold Rush. In 1864, they purchased thirteen acres of land and constructed the house and barn that still stand today. The house exemplifies the Italianate architectural style, characterized by its balanced and symmetrical design, two-story structure, low-pitched roof, wide eaves, and tall windows with decorative crowns. The property became a thriving farm, contributing to the agricultural bounty of the Santa Clara Valley. In the late 1800s, Henry and Mary moved to San Jose, leaving the farm in the care of their son, Albert. He oversaw additions and remodeling around 1890. The property then transitioned to Christian Lass, a former sea captain from Germany, and his family in 1906. The Lass family continued to operate the farm, cultivating tomatoes, vegetables, apricots, and plums, and raising chickens. The farm remained in the Lass family for over 80 years, witnessing significant changes in the Santa Clara Valley as it transformed from an agricultural center to the heart of Silicon Valley. Upon the death of Julia Lass in 1969, her youngest daughter Johanna inherited the estate. Johanna lived there until 1985, when she moved to a retirement community. Recognizing the historical significance of the property, Johanna sold it to the City of Santa Clara in 1987, with the stipulation that it be preserved as a historic site. The city undertook extensive restoration efforts, transforming the house and grounds into a museum that opened to the public in 1991. Today, the Harris Lass House Museum comprises the house itself, a classic California barn, a summer kitchen, a tank house, and beautifully landscaped gardens. The house is fully furnished with many original family antiques and artifacts, providing an authentic glimpse into the lives of the Harris and Lass families. Visitors can explore the double parlor, admire the period furnishings, and even see Albert Harris' safe in the basement. The grounds are equally captivating, with the gardens offering a tranquil escape and the outbuildings providing insights into the daily life of a 19th-century farm. The summer kitchen, separate from the main house, was used for canning, laundry, and soap making during the hot summer months. The tank house, while not original to the property, is typical of those used in the Santa Clara Valley and adds to the authenticity of the museum. The Harris Lass House Museum is operated by the Historic Preservation Society of Santa Clara, a non-profit organization staffed entirely by volunteers. The society offers guided tours of the house and grounds, providing visitors with a deeper understanding of the history and significance of the property. The museum also hosts special events throughout the year, including flea markets, yard sales, and holiday celebrations, making it a vibrant and engaging community hub. Visiting the Harris Lass House Museum is like stepping into a time capsule, offering a tangible connection to the past and a reminder of the rich agricultural heritage of the Santa Clara Valley. It's a place where history comes alive, where visitors can imagine what life was like for the families who shaped this region and contributed to its unique character. Whether you're a history buff, a garden enthusiast, or simply looking for a peaceful escape, the Harris Lass House Museum is a must-see destination in Santa Clara. The museum is not just a collection of artifacts; it's a living testament to the enduring spirit of the families who called this place home. It's a place where stories are told, memories are shared, and the past is celebrated. As you wander through the rooms and gardens, you'll feel a sense of connection to the people who lived here, worked here, and shaped the community around them. The Harris Lass House Museum stands as a symbol of preservation, reminding us of the importance of protecting our historical landmarks and sharing them with future generations. It's a place where the past informs the present, and where visitors can gain a deeper appreciation for the rich tapestry of human experience that has shaped the Santa Clara Valley.

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