Full House Nostalgia: The Famous Painted Ladies of San Fran!
San Francisco, California is home to some of the most beautiful and iconic Victorian homes in the world. Nicknamed “The Painted Ladies”, these colorful homes were made famous in the opening credits of the popular TV show Full House. The iconic scene of the Tanner family picnicking in Alamo Square with the Painted Ladies in the background has continued to captivate audiences for decades. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the history behind these homes and why they have become such an important part of San Francisco’s identity.
Victorian architecture became popular in the United States during the reign of Queen Victoria in England, from 1837-1901. It was a time of great innovation and advancement in construction techniques, which allowed for the creation of intricate and detailed designs. San Francisco experienced a major building boom in the late 1800s, with many homes being constructed in the Victorian style.
The Painted Ladies were built between 1892 and 1896, during the height of the Victorian era. The homes are located on Steiner Street, across from Alamo Square, and were designed in the Queen Anne style by architects Charles McCall and Oliver Rousseau. The homes were originally painted in a variety of colors, but the current pastel colors were not added until the 1960s and 1970s.
The Painted Ladies consist of six homes, with 710 to 720 Steiner Street being the most famous. The three homes in the middle are nearly identical, while the two on either end have unique features. The home on the far left, 722 Steiner Street, is a mirror image of the other side, but with a different color scheme. The home on the far right, 720 Steiner Street, is often referred to as the “Odd Fellows Building” as it was originally built as a meeting hall for the Independent Order of Odd Fellows.
The Painted Ladies have become a symbol of San Francisco, representing both the city’s Victorian architecture and its vibrant and colorful culture. They have also been featured in countless TV shows, movies, and advertisements, making them a pop culture icon as well. In addition to Full House, the homes have been featured in the movies The Five-Year Engagement, Invasion of the Body Snatchers, and Rent.
Despite their fame, the Painted Ladies have faced their fair share of challenges over the years. In the early 1900s, the homes were converted into apartments, with each home being divided into multiple units. This led to neglect and disrepair, as the homes were not being properly maintained. In the 1950s, the homes were slated for demolition, but a group of concerned citizens banded together to save them. They were eventually purchased by a private owner and restored to their original grandeur.
Today, the Painted Ladies continue to be one of San Francisco’s most popular tourist attractions. Visitors come from all over the world to take pictures of the homes and enjoy the stunning views of the city from Alamo Square. The homes have even been featured on a postage stamp, cementing their place in American culture.
In conclusion, the Painted Ladies of San Francisco are a true treasure of Victorian architecture and an important part of the city’s history. Their colorful façades and intricate designs have captivated audiences for generations, and they continue to be a source of pride for San Franciscans. Whether you’re a fan of Full House or simply appreciate beautiful architecture, the Painted Ladies are a must-see when visiting San Francisco.
Walking Through History: A Tour of San Francisco’s Victorian Homes
San Francisco is known for its Victorian architecture – ornate, colorful, and full of history. The iconic Painted Ladies seen on the hit TV show Full House are just a small part of the city’s Victorian homes. Walking through San Francisco’s neighborhoods is like taking a step back in time, as you pass by beautifully preserved homes that often date back to the late 1800s.
One of the most famous neighborhoods for Victorian architecture is Alamo Square, where the Painted Ladies are located. These six homes, painted in vibrant colors, have become a symbol of San Francisco and are a must-see for any tourist. But there are many more Victorian homes to explore in the city.
The Haight-Ashbury neighborhood is another great spot for Victorian architecture enthusiasts. The area is known for its hippie history, but it’s also home to some of the most beautiful Victorian homes in San Francisco. The homes in this area are often painted in muted colors, but their intricate details are just as stunning as the Painted Ladies.
If you’re looking for a more off-the-beaten-path neighborhood, head to Pacific Heights. This area is known for its sweeping views of the Golden Gate Bridge and the Bay, but it’s also home to some of the largest and most opulent Victorian homes in San Francisco. The homes in this area are often multi-story and feature turrets, balconies, and intricate woodwork.
Another great neighborhood for Victorian architecture is Noe Valley. Here, you’ll find homes that are a mix of Victorian and Edwardian styles, giving the neighborhood a unique feel. The homes in this area are often painted in pastel colors and feature bright flower gardens in their front yards.
One of the best ways to see San Francisco’s Victorian homes is to take a walking tour. The San Francisco Architectural Heritage offers a variety of walking tours that focus on different neighborhoods and styles of architecture. Their Victorian Home Walk takes you through the Pacific Heights neighborhood and showcases some of the city’s most opulent Victorian homes.
The Haight-Ashbury Walking Tour is another great option for those interested in Victorian architecture. The tour takes you through the Haight-Ashbury neighborhood and highlights the area’s Victorian homes, as well as its hippie history.
If you’re interested in more than just Victorian architecture, the San Francisco City Guides offer a variety of walking tours that cover different aspects of the city’s history and culture. Their Castro District Walking Tour takes you through the city’s LGBTQ history, while their Chinatown Walking Tour gives you a glimpse into one of the oldest and largest Chinatowns in the United States.
No matter which neighborhood you choose to explore, San Francisco’s Victorian homes are a sight to behold. These homes are not just beautiful – they’re also a reminder of the city’s rich history and past. So next time you’re in San Francisco, take a walking tour and see these iconic homes for yourself.
