Theodore F. Payne House

The Theodore F. Payne House is a residential structure in Stick style located on Sutter Street, featuring vertical wooden elements and ornate details across its exterior and interior surfaces. The building displays characteristic wooden embellishments and structured facade elements typical of this architectural approach.

Construction began in 1881 under architects William and Alexander Curlett, who designed many buildings throughout California. The 1880s marked a period of economic growth in San Francisco that spurred the development of such prominent residences.

The residence shows how wealthy families connected to mining fortunes displayed their status through ornate architecture and fine craftsmanship. Visitors can observe the careful attention to decorative details that reflected the social position and taste of San Francisco's elite during that era.

The house is located in a residential neighborhood and can be viewed from the street, allowing visitors to examine the architecture and facade details from outside. The location is accessible by public transit and within walking distance of other historic buildings in the area.

The structure is one of the few pre-1906 earthquake residences from San Francisco's affluent class that remains in its original location unaltered. Its intact condition makes it a rare surviving example of the city's architecture before that major natural disaster.

Location: San Francisco

Inception: 1881

Architects: William and Alexander Curlett

Architectural style: Stick style

Address: 1409 Sutter Street

GPS coordinates: 37.78722,-122.42389

Latest update: December 14, 2025 18:46