Ashworth-Remillard House: A Glimpse into San Jose's Past

Nestled in the heart of San Jose, the Ashworth-Remillard House stands as a captivating reminder of the city's vibrant past. This beautifully preserved two-story Victorian farmhouse, built in 1864, offers visitors a unique opportunity to step back in time and experience the lives of early settlers in the Santa Clara Valley. The house was originally built for James Ashworth, a Gold Rush pioneer who arrived in California from Kentucky in 1854. Ashworth acquired 250 acres of farmland and established a successful agricultural enterprise. The farmhouse served as the center of his family life, housing his wife and seven children. The architecture reflects the style of the era, showcasing intricate woodwork, high ceilings, and large windows that flood the rooms with natural light. The surrounding gardens, carefully maintained, add to the charm and tranquility of the property. In 1891, Ashworth sold the house and 160 remaining acres to Pierre Remillard, an immigrant from Canada who had also participated in the Gold Rush. Remillard recognized the value of the land's rich clay deposits and established a brick manufacturing business on the property. The Remillard Brick Company became a major supplier of bricks for the rapidly growing San Francisco Bay Area, contributing significantly to the region's construction boom. It was said that the Remillard Brick Company built San Francisco twice, once before the 1906 earthquake and fire, and again after the destruction. Remillard remodeled and enlarged the farmhouse, maintaining its Victorian style while adding his own touches. The house remained in the Remillard family for many years, eventually passing to Countess Lillian Remillard Dandini, Pierre's daughter. Although the countess spent only her summers as a child in the house, she resided at Carolands from 1950 to 1973. In 1968, the house was transferred to Dandini's longtime friend and neighbor, Joseph Covey and his partner, architect, Dick Gilbert. Over the years, the Ashworth-Remillard House has witnessed significant changes in the surrounding landscape. What was once a rural farming area has transformed into a bustling urban center. Despite these changes, the house has managed to retain its historical integrity, thanks to the efforts of dedicated preservationists. In 1976, the Ashworth-Remillard House was listed on the National Register of Historic Places, recognizing its significance as a cultural landmark. However, after Gilbert's death in 1997, Covey's health declined and the house was used by transients and homeless people until it was boarded up 10 years later. In 2007, Sue Cucuzza, a brick collector, found the house in disrepair. Cucuzza decided to work with Covey, in order to remove the transient people and to raise money to clean, restore and preserve the home. The records of Remillard Brick Company had been found in the house and were donated to History San Jose Research Library. Today, the Ashworth-Remillard House is owned by Sue Cucuzza and managed by an all-volunteer, tax-exempt organization committed to its restoration and preservation. The house serves as a museum and cultural center, offering guided tours and educational programs that highlight the history of the Ashworth and Remillard families, as well as the broader history of the Santa Clara Valley. The restored sunroom now houses the visitor entrance to the historical house and a gift shop. Visitors to the Ashworth-Remillard House can explore the various rooms, each furnished with period pieces that reflect the lives of the families who once lived there. The exhibits showcase artifacts, photographs, and documents that tell the story of the house and its occupants. The knowledgeable guides provide insights into the architectural details, the social context of the time, and the challenges and triumphs of early settlers. The gardens surrounding the house offer a tranquil escape from the urban environment. Visitors can stroll through the grounds, admire the landscaping, and imagine what life was like on the farm in the 19th century. The gardens also serve as a venue for special events, such as weddings and outdoor concerts. The Ashworth-Remillard House is more than just a historic building; it is a living testament to the past. It provides a valuable link to the stories of those who shaped the region and offers a unique perspective on the evolution of the Santa Clara Valley. A visit to this landmark is an enriching experience for anyone interested in history, architecture, or the cultural heritage of California.