Originally built by wealthy young lumber baron Charles Russell Johnson to house visiting executives and high profile guests as well as himself when he was in Fort Bragg instead of his San Francisco office, the house was a showplace of the Union Lumber Company’s wares. Built entirely of local wood, it was made of the best quality old growth redwood and Douglas fir that could be found. As you might expect, the moldings, trim, and millwork display expert craftsmanship. The house was also the first on the Mendocino Coast to be equipped with electricity, and there was hot and cold running water. Don’t miss the spectacular stained glass windows presiding over the staircase. 

Today, the house serves as the headquarters for the Fort Bragg – Mendocino Coast Historical Society, filled with fascinating artifacts and information about the town’s past, from the native Pomo inhabitants to the pioneers and the growth of the logging and lumber industries that are still an important part of the local economy. The friendly docents are happy to share their knowledge and anecdotes about the house and local history.