Ever wonder what it was like to live in San Francisco’s Gilded Age? Today we are standing in front of the Haas-Lilienthal House. It is a portal to the past. This grand Victorian home at 2007 Franklin Street whispers tales of a bygone era.
The Haas-Lilienthal House was built in 1886 for William and Bertha Haas. William, a Bavarian immigrant, made his fortune as a successful businessman. He and his wife Bertha Greenebaum wanted a grand mansion for their family. They hired architect Peter R. Schmidt to design their dream home.
The Haas-Lilienthal House is a stunning example of Queen Anne style architecture. Look at the asymmetrical facade. Admire the decorative elements and the large front porch. It’s easy to imagine horse-drawn carriages pulling up to this very spot.
Inside, the house is just as impressive. It has 11500 square feet. The home features authentic furniture and artifacts. These items offer a glimpse into Victorian life. The house even survived the devastating 1906 San Francisco earthquake and fire. The Haas family watched the fire from their roof. They were eventually forced to evacuate. The fire stopped just short of their home at Van Ness Avenue.
Three generations of Haas and Lilienthal descendants lived here. In 1972, Alice Haas-Lilienthal, William and Bertha’s youngest child, passed away. Her children donated the house to San Francisco Heritage. This non-profit organization preserves architectural treasures.
The Haas-Lilienthal House became a museum. For years, visitors toured its rooms. They marveled at the original furniture. They learned about the Haas family and San Francisco history. In 2012, it was named a National Treasure by the National Trust for Historic Preservation.
The house has undergone renovations. A 4.3 million dollar project restored the Victorian showplace. It made the house more accessible. The Then, Now and Forever Collection even features historically-accurate paint colors inspired by the house.
The Haas-Lilienthal House isn’t just a beautiful building. It’s a testament to the enduring spirit of San Francisco. It represents the dreams and aspirations of its early residents. It shows the important role of Jewish immigrants in the development of the American West. Though temporarily closed, the Haas-Lilienthal House remains a treasure. It’s a reminder of San Francisco’s rich history. It stands as a symbol of preservation. We hope it will open again soon.