Paul Shoup House

The Paul Shoup House is an American Craftsman residence in Los Altos, California, built in 1910 with wooden windows, Douglas fir floors, and decorative brackets. The structure features bell eaves and other period details characteristic of early 20th century residential design.

The house was built in 1910 as the residence of Paul Shoup, a railroad executive who later became president of Southern Pacific Railroad from 1929 to 1938. His career with the railroad company influenced transportation and development patterns in the region.

The house shaped Los Altos' growth when Paul Shoup established the Altos Land Company to develop residential areas near the railway line. His family's decisions about land and development influenced how this community took form.

The property has been extensively updated for modern plumbing and electrical systems while keeping its original architectural character intact. Access may be limited, so check locally for visiting arrangements and current conditions before planning your trip.

The property includes a historic grotto dedicated to Shoichi Kagawa, a gardener who lived and worked on-site until his internment during World War II. This quiet space preserves a lesser-known chapter of California's wartime history.

Location: California

Architectural style: American Craftsman

GPS coordinates: 37.37375,-122.11833

Latest update: December 14, 2025 18:13