What is the Alfred E. Clarke Mansion known for?

It is a four-story Baroque-Queen Anne structure featuring several towers and an interior noted for its grand staircase, carved fireplaces, wood paneling, and fine stained glass.

What is the architectural style of the building?

The architectural style is described as Baroque-Queen Anne. Its exterior features a shingle pattern that alternates bands of plain shingles with scalloped shingles.

Is the Alfred E. Clarke Mansion a designated landmark?

Yes, it is San Francisco Landmark #80 and became a designated landmark on December 7, 1975.

What has the building been used for over time?

Originally known as "Clarke's Folly," it later operated as the California General Hospital by 1904 and served as a rooming house for Standard Oil Company employees. Today, it is used as a rental property consisting of 15 apartments and a cottage.

What should I check before going?

Use Gyde for context, then check official sources for current hours, tickets, construction, and closures.

Alfred E. Clarke Mansion in San Francisco

Q: Who built the mansion and when?

The mansion was built in 1891 by Alfred "Nobby" Clarke, an Irish sailor who arrived in San Francisco in 1850.

What to know

The Alfred E. Clarke Mansion, located at 250 Douglass Street, is a striking example of Baroque-Queen Anne architecture. Built in 1891 by Alfred "Nobby" Clarke, an Irish sailor who arrived in San Francisco aboard the ship Commonwealth in 1850, the residence was originally known as "Clarke's Folly." This multi-towered structure cost approximately $100,000 to construct in 1892 and is distinguished by an exterior shingle pattern that alternates between plain and scalloped bands. Inside, the mansion is renowned for its opulent details, including a grand staircase, an impressive foyer, wood paneling, carved fireplaces, and fine stained glass. The building's resilience is a key part of its history, as it managed to survive the devastating 1906 San Francisco earthquake and the subsequent fires that destroyed many other Victorian mansions in the city. Over the decades, the property's purpose shifted significantly. By 1904, it operated as the California General Hospital, described at the time as an "Elegant and Commodious Hospital." It later served as a rooming house for employees of the Standard Oil Company before transitioning into its current state as a rental property. Today, the landmark consists of 15 apartments—including studios, one-bedroom, and two-bedroom units—along with a stand-alone cottage and a one-car garage. Recognized for its architectural and historical significance, the mansion became San Francisco Designated Landmark #80 on December 7, 1975. It remains a rare surviving piece of the Eureka Valley neighborhood's early residential grandeur.

Visitor tips

Focus your attention on the exterior shingle patterns, looking for the alternating plain and scalloped bands.
Since the building is currently used as private apartments, please remain on the public sidewalk and respect residents' privacy.
Visit during the morning or late afternoon for the best lighting on the towers and decorative detailing.

Nearby context

The mansion is situated in the heart of the Eureka Valley neighborhood, providing a historic counterpoint to the vibrant, modern energy of the nearby Castro District and the GLBT Historical Society Museum.