Many of the properties we sell in Sonoma County have histories going back to the early 1800′s prior to California becoming a State. Some of these properties need restoration and that process can be truly rewarding. Significant help on learning the history of property can be obtained from historical societies in many of the communities throughout Sonoma County as well as local and the County Museums.
When the property’s history is known all the way back to the original Spanish Land Grant, it is an added bonus. An example is a 2 bedroom 1 bath home on a large 1/3 acre lot built in the mid 1850′s by Kit Carson’s brother, Lindsay Carson. The home is now in central Healdsburg but was part of Rancho Sotoyome prior to Healdsburg’s founding. Within walking distance of the Healdsburg Square, the property was originally the home of Lindsay Carson and his wife Marie Williams, the widow of Donner Party member John Williams. The home at an estimated 1,300 sf would be a more modest renovation in comparison to larger properties and with the small adjoining barn could be an excellent starter project. In the long term, this ‘in town’ property is zoned for live and work or the addition of a second home.
As mentioned previously, Sonoma County is rich with organizations and individuals who work to preserve the history of the County and California. These organizations are valuable resources for an owner interested in absorbing as much as possible of Sonoma County. Three great websites related to the history of Healdsburg, historic homes and the surrounding area:
http://www.ourhealdsburg.com/history/alexander.htm
http://www.ourhealdsburg.com/history/heald.htm#7
http://users.ap.net/~chenae/socohomes.html
For information on this property or other historic properties in Healdsburg – please send us an e-mail at CSchnall@aol.com.
