The Bourn Mansion, a 27-room Georgian-style mansion built in 1896, was once home to William Bourn II, considered one of the wealthiest men in San Francisco during the late 19th century. This architectural masterpiece, designed by renowned architect Willis Polk, showcases the finest craftsmanship of the era, with intricate brick and stonework, carved decorations, and elegant fixtures.
In This Article
Key Points
- The Bourn Mansion was built in 1896 for William Bourn II, a wealthy mining magnate and founder of PG&E
- Designed by Willis Polk, the mansion features Georgian architecture and exquisite craftsmanship
- The mansion has a colorful history, from its gilded age origins to its time as a party pad in the 1970s
A Legacy of Wealth and Opulence
William Bourn II amassed his fortune through mining and later by building up Pacific Gas and Electric (PG&E). In addition to the Bourn Mansion, he owned several other elaborate properties, including the Empire Mine in Grass Valley, CA, and the famous Filoli estate in Woodside. The Bourn Mansion, while modest by Bourn’s standards, still boasts 27 rooms and stands as a testament to his immense wealth and influence.
Architectural Significance
The Bourn Mansion is a prime example of Georgian architecture, a style not commonly seen in San Francisco during the late 1800s. Willis Polk, the architect behind the mansion, also designed several other buildings for Bourn, including structures at the Empire Mine and Filoli estate. The mansion’s intricate brickwork, stone masonry, and beautifully carved decorations showcase the exceptional skill of the craftsmen who built it.
A Colorful Past
Despite its upper-crust beginnings, the Bourn Mansion has had a colorful history. In the 1970s, under the ownership of eccentric Arden Van Upp, the mansion became a notorious party pad, hosting lavish gatherings attended by rock stars, movie stars, and even porn stars. The mansion’s spacious rooms and grand design made it the perfect venue for wild, hedonistic celebrations.
Preservation and Restoration
In recent years, efforts have been made to preserve and restore the Bourn Mansion. The building has undergone a seismic retrofit and reroofing, as well as repairs to damaged exterior walls, decks, skylights, and roofing. These structural repairs aim to bring the mansion back to its former glory while maintaining its historical integrity.
A San Francisco Landmark
The Bourn Mansion was designated as San Francisco Landmark #38, recognizing its historical and architectural significance. As one of the city’s most impressive examples of Georgian architecture and a remnant of San Francisco’s gilded age, the mansion attracts architecture enthusiasts and history buffs alike.
FAQ
Who was William Bourn II?
William Bourn II was a wealthy mining magnate and founder of PG&E. He was considered one of the richest men in San Francisco during the late 19th century.
Who designed the Bourn Mansion?
The Bourn Mansion was designed by renowned architect Willis Polk, who also designed several other buildings for Bourn, including structures at the Empire Mine and Filoli estate.
What architectural style is the Bourn Mansion?
The Bourn Mansion is an example of Georgian architecture, a style not commonly seen in San Francisco during the late 1800s.
What is the mansion’s more recent history?
In the 1970s, under the ownership of Arden Van Upp, the Bourn Mansion became a notorious party pad, hosting lavish gatherings attended by rock stars, movie stars, and porn stars.
Is the Bourn Mansion a designated landmark?
Yes, the Bourn Mansion is designated as San Francisco Landmark #38, recognizing its historical and architectural significance.
