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San Francisco, California / History

Atkinson House

An architectural treasure on Russian Hill, the Atkinson House is one of San Francisco's oldest surviving residences, featuring a rare Italianate style and a history of bohemian gatherings.

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Atkinson House
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What is the Atkinson House known for?

The Atkinson House is one of the oldest standing residences in San Francisco and is possibly one of the city's first Italianate-style homes. It has been a San Francisco Designated Landmark since July 17, 1977.

Where is the Atkinson House located?

It is located at 1032 Broadway Street in the Russian Hill area of San Francisco, California.

What is the history of the house?

Built in 1853 for brick contractor Joseph H. Atkinson, the home was later remodeled by architect Willis Polk in 1900. Around the 1890s, it served as a meeting place for bohemians and artists, as well as a site for seances and occult practices.

Did the house survive the 1906 earthquake?

Yes, photographs reveal that the house withstood the 1906 earthquake and fire better than most and appeared untouched.

What should I check before going?

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

What to know

Built in 1853 for Joseph H. Atkinson, a brick contractor and partial owner of the Lone Mountain Cemetery, the Atkinson House stands as a testament to the city's early residential architecture. It is recognized as one of the oldest residences in San Francisco still standing, tied with the Tanforan Cottages, and is considered one of the first Italianate-style homes in the city. The property was designated as a San Francisco Designated Landmark on July 17, 1977. Throughout its history, the home has seen diverse occupants and uses. Around the 1890s, it served as a meeting place for bohemians and artists, including the 'Les Jeunes' group, and was the site of occult practices and seances. In 1900, the house underwent a remodel by the renowned architect Willis Polk of the firm Polk and Polk. The structure's resilience is a key part of its legacy. While many buildings were lost during the 1906 earthquake and fire, photographs reveal that the Atkinson House withstood these events better than most and appeared untouched. However, it did suffer extensive damage to its upper floors during a fire in 1931, with charred beams still remaining in a crawl space leading to the attic. In more recent years, the home has transitioned into a luxury residence. In 2015, it was listed for sale at 12 million dollars, boasting 3,890 square feet of living space with four bedrooms and four and a half bathrooms. Modern additions, such as an elevator, now exist alongside its ornate Old World details.

Visitor tips

  • Since this is a private residence, please respect the owners' privacy and view the architecture from the sidewalk.
  • Wear comfortable walking shoes as the house is located on the steep terrain of Russian Hill.
  • Combine this stop with a visit to nearby Grace Cathedral to see more of the neighborhood's landmarks.

Nearby context

The Atkinson House is nestled in the prestigious Russian Hill neighborhood, situated near other historic sites like the Pacific-Union Club (Flood Mansion) and the towering Grace Cathedral.

Sources

Evidence and links