The Dudley House: A Victorian Farmhouse Museum
Discover Ventura's past at the Dudley House, a beautifully preserved Victorian farmhouse museum showcasing local history and agricultural heritage.
The Dudley House, completed in 1892, stands as a testament to Ventura's rich agricultural past and the legacy of its pioneering families. Designed by local architect Selwyn Shaw, this Queen Anne-style farmhouse offers a unique opportunity to experience life as it was for the Dudley family in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Benjamin Wells (B.W.) Dudley and his brother Frank arrived in California after the Civil War. They purchased land and experimented with various crops, discovering that lima beans thrived in the region. By the 1890s, Ventura County became the world's largest producer of lima beans. The house is filled with original Dudley family furniture, photographs, and artifacts, offering an intimate glimpse into their daily lives across five generations. Beyond its architecture, the Dudley House played a vital role in the community. B.W. Dudley was a prominent civic leader, serving on the school board and as a Justice of the Peace, even holding court in the parlor. The house was saved from demolition in 1977 and relocated to its current location. Today, the Dudley House operates as a museum, meticulously restored to reflect life between 1895 and 1925. Visitors can explore the furnished rooms, gardens, and basement, each offering a unique perspective on family life during this era.
Local tips
- Visit during the monthly open house (first Sunday of the month, January to November) for docent-led tours and a chance to experience the house with period music.
- Explore the gardens surrounding the house, which are open year-round and feature a variety of plants, including a beautiful lavender garden.
- Check the Dudley House website for special events like plant sales and the annual Holiday Boutique for unique shopping opportunities.
A brief summary to The Dudley House
- 197 N Ashwood Ave, Ventura, California, 93003, US
- +1805-642-3345
- Visit website
Getting There
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Walking
From the intersection of Main Street and Ashwood Avenue, walk north on Ashwood Avenue for approximately 0.2 miles. The Dudley House will be on your left at the corner of Ashwood Avenue and Loma Vista Road. The walk is generally flat and takes about 5-10 minutes. Sidewalks are available along Ashwood Avenue.
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Public Transport
Gold Coast Transit District (GCTD) provides bus service in the city of Ventura. Check the GCTD website or app for the most up-to-date routes and schedules. From a GCTD bus stop, walk along Ashwood Avenue to Loma Vista Road. A single ride fare is $2 for adults. Youth 18 and under and those enrolled in high school can ride any public transit bus in Ventura County for free, anytime, anywhere.
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Driving
From US-101, exit onto Main Street and head east. Turn north onto Ashwood Avenue. The Dudley House is located at the corner of Ashwood Avenue and Loma Vista Road. Limited street parking is available near the Dudley House. Parking is free.
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Taxi/Ride-Share
Request a taxi or ride-share service (Uber/Lyft) to 197 N Ashwood Ave, Ventura, CA 93003. From downtown Ventura, a ride-share will typically cost between $8 and $12, depending on demand.
