Jose Maria Alviso Adobe

Jose Maria Alviso Adobe is an adobe structure in Milpitas with thick earthen walls, two stories, and three balconies arranged in a symmetric exterior layout. The floor plan contains three rooms per level and shows how different construction phases were added over time to the original core.

The structure was built in 1837 and expanded in 1853 when the original adobe core received new rooms. During that period, the house served as a residence for Jose Maria Alviso, who held the position of alcalde in Pueblo de San Jose.

The building displays a blend of Hispanic and Anglo-American influences through its wooden shingles, French doors, and multi-paned windows installed across different construction phases. These elements show how the region absorbed different architectural traditions as it developed over time.

The original adobe walls from the 1830s remain visible throughout the structure, while many doors, windows, and hardware pieces date to 1853. A kitchen added in 1920 demonstrates how the house was updated for modern living practices of that era.

This is the last remaining example of Monterey Colonial architecture in Santa Clara Valley and the San Francisco Bay Area. This building style, which blended Mexican and American construction traditions, has otherwise disappeared entirely from the region.

Location: California

Architectural style: Mediterranean Revival architecture

GPS coordinates: 37.43822,-121.87269

Latest update: December 13, 2025 12:41