Lathrop House

Lathrop House is a house museum in Redwood City showcasing Carpenter Gothic architecture built from wood. Its exterior features pointed arches, steep gables, and intricate decorative trim that define this distinctive style.

Built in 1863, the house belonged to Benjamin G. Lathrop, the first Clerk, Recorder, and Assessor of San Mateo County. The structure survived multiple relocations, reflecting its importance to early regional history.

The house reflects how settlers brought Eastern building traditions to California and adapted them to local tastes, mixing Gothic elements with colonial details. Visitors can see how diverse influences came together in a single structure to create something distinctly Californian.

The museum is located at Hamilton Street and accessible during scheduled tour times. Check ahead for opening hours and plan to experience a guided tour of the interior.

This is the only surviving example of Carpenter Gothic architecture in San Mateo County, distinguished by its quatrefoil decorative patterns. These geometric details remain distinctive features of the original wooden structure.

Location: Redwood City

Inception: 1863

Architectural style: Carpenter Gothic

Address: 627 Hamilton St, Redwood City, California 94063

Website: http://lathrophouse.org

GPS coordinates: 37.48798,-122.23008

Latest update: December 13, 2025 12:22