Anaheim is teeming with historical sites, like the Mother Colony House—one of the first buildings in the city. Construction began in 1857, and it’s considered an American Territorial style cottage. Built largely out of local redwoods, the house features three rooms and a gable roof complete with a decorative crest. An impressive eave shelters the entirety of the porch, and an addition in the rear was crafted circa 1870.
Built by L.A. local George Hansen, who became the Los Angeles Vineyard Society’s superintendent, it’s a landmark site. At the time, there were around 50 colonists from Germany who banded together to found Anaheim. It was Hansen’s personal home and office, well before he was dubbed the “Father of Anaheim.”
A Home with History
Following Hansen, a number of families called the Mother Colony home. This includes saloon owner Frederick Ruhmann. It was slated for demolition in 1929, but was saved by the Daughters of the American Revolution. Today, the house has been moved from its original location on Anaheim Boulevard and Cypress to 414 North West Street. It remains the oldest museum in the county, and is now owned by the City of Anaheim.
When visiting the house, pop next door to the Woelke-Stoffel House, another site listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Admission is free. Tours are available the first Saturday of the month from 9 a.m. – 12 p.m.
