James Flood Mansion

The James Flood Mansion is a three-story residence at the corner of California and Mason Streets featuring Classical Revival architecture with corner quoining and decorative pediments around the windows. The building serves as the headquarters of a private club today and remains largely closed to the general public.

Built in 1886 for a silver mining magnate, this residence was one of the few structures in the area that survived the destructive 1906 earthquake without damage. Its survival amid the surrounding devastation made it a remarkable symbol of resilience in the city.

After the 1906 earthquake, a private club took over the building and redesigned the interior while keeping the original brownstone exterior unchanged. This transformation shows how the city adapted its historic structures for new purposes.

The building stands at an easily accessible corner in the Nob Hill neighborhood and can be viewed from the outside, though visitors cannot enter the interior. The best time to view and photograph it is during daylight hours when the facade is well-lit and the architectural details are clearly visible.

This building was the first brownstone structure built west of the Mississippi River, using materials sourced from eastern quarries. The choice to import these building stones all the way to the West Coast reflects the importance placed on this residence and the city's early trade connections.

Location: California

Inception: 1886

Architects: Augustus Laver

GPS coordinates: 37.79200,-122.41100

Latest update: December 7, 2025 20:25