The McHenry Mansion was built by Robert and Matilda McHenry and was designed by Jeremiah Robinson, an architect from Stockton. Mr. Robinson was also the contractor that was responsible for the Stanislaus County Courthouse. Construction has begun in 1882 using day labor. The bricks that were meant to be the foundation came from local kilns. The Mansion’s architectural style is from a High Victorian Italianate style that was very popular during that time. The mansion was finished in 1883 and the tax assessment for 1883 gave the property a value of $12,000. EZ Modesto Junk Removal
The original owner named Robert McHenry came to California before the Gold Rush and was involved in a wide array of business enterprises. During the 1850 census, he was listed as a trader living in Stockton. He established a butcher business together with L.O Brewster at Chinese Camps and over the years, he had acquired many parcels of land through purchases to the Homestead Act. Besides his cattle interests, he also grew crops and one of these was winter wheat. In 1878 Mr. McHenry became the director of Modesto Bank and cashier the following year. He purchased five lots at the corner of 15th and I streets and became the site of his home in 1880. It was his time to have a house in Modesto, California because his time was taken in running the day-to-day operations of the bank.
McHenry lived in the house until he died in 1890 and his wife, Matilda continued to reside there until she died in 1896. Their son Oramil moves into the house with his wife, Louise together with their three children. Oramill McHenry died of stomach cancer in 1906 at the age of 44. In 1976, the Mansion came on the market and with the eagerness of Mayor Lee Davies, he wanted to save the Mansion because Modesto was rapidly losing its historical buildings. The Mansion was given to the city of Modesto with the agreement that it had to be restored and made available for community use.
Starting in 1877 the restoration of the mansion was undertaken to bring the former and original appearance. It was opened to the public in 1983.
Membership
Help preserve the McHenry Mansion by becoming a member of their foundation. Their nonprofit is seeking dedicated individuals who wanted to take part in their team.
Volunteer
If you are interested to become a docent the McHenry Mansion is offering training programs for volunteers who want to educate visitors about the historic home.
Address: 906 15th Street Modesto, CA
Check out other great attractions in around Modesto like Modesto Certified Farmers’ Market