This is a hard one to rate - on its face this is a very expensive ticket for what it is a nice Eastlake style house - not a mansion, and while solidly upper middle class if a bit better, not grand. A gift from two sets of wealthy parents, yes, but it was intended as a starter house for the young couple - presumably they would have made more money later on and moved into the family mansion or built something larger. You have to applaud the family for preserving this (treasure trove of research objects; I would imagine academics love it) and the comprehensive tour was given by a granddaughter of (oh gosh I've forgotten) so the family connection and personal memories come through very clearly - with enthusiasm. The back of the house is sectioned off for the live in craftsman/steward (seems to do wonders for the place), so perhaps 20% is off view. There is more than a little deferred maintenance but (mostly) not on the inside. You will get your full two hour tour, and maybe then some - I would say this isn't for those with casual interest. I missed the fact that apparently there is some limited parking out back, opted for the street and received a inexplicable $75 ticket (no signs anywhere warning of this). I don't factor in to the rating but be warned!

Come see this beauty, you will not be disapointed. Check out their new web page where you can find out more. Tours are given by family members and knowledgable friends and volunteers. Amazing collections found in this home where nobody ever moved out! Great for dress up photo shoots. Teas with your friends and your Mom. For local Oakland history especially great for school field trips. A must see for historic buffs and all.