can you tour the carson mansion

Witness this iconic example of Victorian architecture, which towers above the Bay in Old Town Eureka. Since 1884, this gingerbread, storybook mansion–a Eureka landmark–has been one of the most written-about, photographed and celebrated Victorian homes in the country. Built by lumber magnate William Carson, it boasts towers and turrets, columned porches, gables and striking ornate details, all topped off with a radical paint job.

The Royal Tour

Carson mansion and the victorian homes of eureka.

Ice cold Moscow mule in my hand, the ascension of the final flight of steps to Carson Mansion’s iconic tower/sun room overlooking the city of Eureka, California seems much less daunting. From here, the city of about 25,000 spreads out along the blue water of Humboldt Bay. The waterfront, now a mix of restaurants, parks, and community spaces, was once a maze of lumber mills and shipping ports. This was the domain of a single man who would come to dominate 19th century Eureka, to bring untold wealth to this Northern California town, and to change the natural landscape of the area. And yet, it is his house that continues to capture the hearts – and Instagram feeds – of visitors to Eureka.

In the early days of California, there were many who tried – and failed – to make it rich at gold mining. Willam Carson was such a man. Born in 1825 in New Brunswick, Canada, Carson arrived in San Francisco in 1849, and made his way up the Eel River to the Trinity Mountains in Northern California. His mining claim never panned out (pun intended), but he would forever leave his mark on the Eel River and Humboldt Bay. In 1850, Carson felled a coastal redwood tree, what is considered to be the first for commercial purposes on Humboldt Bay. By 1852, Carson had left mining for good and moved his business interests into lumber, and two years later shipped the first load of timbered and processed redwood to the growing city of San Francisco, again the first to do so.

Over the next thirty years, William Carson’s Dolbeer and Carson Lumber Company – along with partner John Dolbeer – became the world leader in redwood lumbering, producing an incredible 15,000,000 board feet of lumber per year. The mighty redwood forests, which once stretched from the San Francisco Bay all the way into Oregon were reduced by 95% between timbering and clearing for agricultural use, although in the nineteenth century the trees must have seemed an inextinguishable resource. (Conservation of the redwoods began in 1918, six years after Carson’s death.)

William Carson’s lumber company made him – and the town – incredibly wealthy. When he died in 1912, he possessed an estimated $20,000,000 fortune, worth more than $550,000,000 in today’s dollars. Such a man needed to possess a house to match, so he commissioned Carson Mansion on a small rise in the middle of his lumber yard. Designed by the prestigious San Francisco architects Samuel and Joseph Cather Newsom, the home was completed in 1886 at a cost of $80,000 (roughly $2.4 million today), and is one of the best examples of American Victorian architecture in existence.

Slated for demolition in 1950, the building was purchased by a group of local community leaders, and today houses the Ingomar Club, a private club dedicated to the preservation of the Carson Mansion.

For most visitors to Eureka, a street view of Carson Mansion is all that is possible, and what a view it is! You may recognize the facade of the structure, as its outline became that of the Addams Family house, the clock tower on Disneyland’s train station, and more. However, to view the magnificently preserved interior, one must be invited and escorted by a member.

John Ash is a retired architect, specializing in the renovation of historic buildings. He is also a member of the Ingomar Club, along with his wife Delores Vellutini, herself a past president of the club, and only the second woman to hold that distinction. (The club is inclusive, although membership is by invitation only, and women and minority members are welcomed as both members and leaders.) John is also my sponsor and tour guide for my visit to the Carson Mansion. We begin in a beautiful event space, the Ingomar’s main dining room, where we order cocktails and he points out the main features, focusing on how this modern addition to the mansion flows seamlessly into the original structure. As in the house itself, no detail is forgotten. Ornately carved ceilings and handrails, beautiful chandeliers, and even the placement of windows to catch the afternoon light are things perhaps only an architect like John would notice. When combined with the atmosphere – he is greeted as Mr. Ash by every person we pass, and yet treated to a casual and warm smile that belies the formality – it is a place I am instantly comfortable, though I know my stay here will be brief.

The house itself is a masterpiece, with much of the exterior and some of the interior design elements being done in Carson’s own redwood. While photographs are not allowed inside, my mind will be forever emblazoned with images of the huge main staircase, turning at right angles as it leads to the second floor, a huge smooth redwood bannister guiding me upward, and of the soft pastel colors warming the intricately carved ceilings with wooden arches framing room entrances. Many of the rooms have been preserved with 19th century furnishings, and John points out some of the original features like gilded mirrors or ornate heating covers. Some spaces have been converted into comfortable sitting rooms for Ingomar members, while an upstairs ballroom now is a magnificent billiard room. Our server, Cory, tracks us down while we tour, providing nourishment in liquid form. And let me tell you, the Ingomar makes one heck of a Moscow mule!

The Ingomar Club has done a spectacular job maintaining Carson Mansion, and when I get back to our table from my tour, I have the chance to say that to Tim Walker, General Manager of the club. A second Moscow mule arrives, and then a dozen of the best Humboldt Bay oysters I’ve ever had. (Did you know that Humboldt Bay provides more than 70% of the oysters for California consumption? I didn’t, either, but if you are lucky enough to come to the Carson Mansion, try the ones with bacon and butter.) The club, while private, has reciprocal membership privileges with similar organizations all over, and even offers out-of-town rates, which make for a fun – if unrealistic – thought.

Carson Mansion may be the most spectacular, but it is by no means the only stunning Victorian mansion in Eureka. With the immense wealth pouring into the town from its place at the pinnacle of the 19th century lumber industry, fortunes were made for plenty of people who desired homes worthy of their newfound wealth and status. Directly across the street from Carson Mansion is the Pink Lady. Under new ownership who have changed the K to a C (as in Pinc Lady), it was formerly the Carson House, a gift of William to his son for his wedding.

To see a whole block full of incredible Victorian facades, drive over to Hillsdale Street (between C and E, and 12th and 13th). Here, it seems every house is a wonderfully upkept Victorian, each featuring different color schemes and adornments. This is far from the only such spot in Eureka; Victorian homes and buildings are all over, and virtually any drive through the city other than staying on US 101 will have you marveling.

William Carson passed away in Eureka in 1912, and the majority of the family left the area in the 1950s, but the legacy of this baron of lumber remains in his home, the stunning Carson Mansion, and in the beauty of the town he helped to enrich.

Note: thank you to John Ash for the incredible tour, to Tim and Cory at the Ingomar Club for the hospitality, and to Julie Benbow at the Humboldt County Visitor’s Bureau for setting it all up. This was an experience I will never forget!

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Are there tours in August 2024

Carson Mansion is not open to the public. It is a private club, and any possible tours would need to be arranged through them.

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The Carson Mansion: A Marvel of Victorian Splendor

Nestled in the heart of Eureka, California, the Carson Mansion stands as an awe-inspiring testament to the opulence and grandeur of American Queen Anne-style architecture. Built in the late 19th century for lumber magnate William Carson, this iconic mansion has captured the imaginations of architectural enthusiasts for generations.

With its elaborate detailing, picturesque turrets, and ornate woodwork, the Carson Mansion is an embodiment of the wealth and prosperity that once thrived in Northern California. In this article, we delve into the fascinating history and exquisite features of the Carson Mansion, unraveling the allure of this remarkable piece of architectural heritage.

The Lumber Baron’s Dream

Constructed between 1884 and 1885, the Carson Mansion was the brainchild of William Carson, a prominent figure in California’s lumber industry. Eager to showcase his success and fortune, Carson commissioned the renowned architect Samuel Newsom to design his opulent residence. Newsom’s vision came to life, resulting in a breathtaking mansion that transcended the boundaries of traditional architecture, and it became a prime example of the Queen Anne style.

An Architectural Marvel

The Carson Mansion’s architectural brilliance lies in its meticulous attention to detail. Adorned with delicate gingerbread trim and vibrant colors, the exterior dazzles onlookers with its whimsical and ornate aesthetics. Asymmetrical facades, picturesque gables, and an array of textures create a harmonious composition that catches the eye from every angle.

Step inside, and the mansion continues to mesmerize. Intricate woodwork, elegant stained glass windows, and elaborate carvings elevate the interior to an unparalleled level of luxury. Each room showcases the finest craftsmanship of the era, boasting original fixtures that have stood the test of time.

Historical Significance

The Carson Mansion’s historical significance extends beyond its architectural prowess. It bears witness to the economic boom fueled by the lumber industry during the late 19th century. William Carson, as one of the wealthiest men of his time, was a driving force behind the development of Northern California. The mansion’s legacy speaks to the opulence and prosperity that thrived in the region during this period.

Evolution of Ownership

Following William Carson’s passing in 1912, the mansion went through various ownership changes. It served as a private club, a military officer’s club during World War II, and later became the distinguished Ingomar Club, a private social hub that preserved the mansion’s grandeur while making it an integral part of the community.

Preserving the Icon

Listed on the National Register of Historic Places since 1971, the Carson Mansion remains a treasured landmark, capturing the essence of Victorian splendor for generations to come. While the mansion is not open for regular public tours, its architectural significance has made it a subject of admiration for photographers, artists, and architectural enthusiasts.

The Carson Mansion’s magnificence transcends time, standing as a symbol of architectural brilliance and the golden age of the lumber industry. A true marvel of Victorian splendor, this iconic mansion continues to inspire awe and admiration for its intricate design and historical significance. The Carson Mansion remains an enduring symbol of the rich heritage and grandeur that once defined Northern California.

Carson Mansion

North Coast & Redwoods

Of Eureka’s fine Victorian buildings, the most famous is the ornate 1880s home of lumber baron William Carson. It took 100 men two years to build. Today it’s a private men’s club. The pink house opposite, at 202 M St, is an 1884 Queen Anne Victorian designed by the same architects and built as a wedding gift for Carson’s son.

143 M St, Ingomar Club

Get In Touch

https://​www​.ingomar​.org​/

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LINKS: Additional local and national links are here.

National Trust for Historic Preservation National source for preservation information.

The Ingomar Club Web Site maintained by the private club that owns and maintains the Carson Mansion

Photo: Ron Kuhnel. Clicking on the above image will open a larger, higher resolution photograph.

The carson mansion.

The Eureka Heritage Society. Updated: September 15, 2013