Home of Lola Montez facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Home of Lola Montez |
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Front facade, Lola Montez Home.
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| Location | 248 Mill Street Grass Valley, California |
| Designated | 20 July 1938 |
| Reference no. | 292 |
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The Home of Lola Montez is a special building in downtown Grass Valley, California. You can find it at 248 Mill Street. This house was once owned by Lola Montez, a famous singer and dancer from long ago. She moved here in 1853, and this was the only home she ever truly owned.
Contents
History of the Lola Montez Home
The story of this home begins even before Lola Montez lived there. In November 1850, the town of Grass Valley held its very first election. This important event happened right under an oak tree on the spot where the house now stands.
Early Uses of the Building
Just one year later, in 1851, a building was constructed on this property. It was first used as an office for a company called Gilmor Meredith's Gold Hill Mining Company. Imagine, a mining office! Then, in 1852, the building changed its purpose again. It became a schoolhouse, where children in Grass Valley learned their lessons.
Lola Montez: A Star in Grass Valley
Lola Montez arrived in Grass Valley in 1853. She bought the building and made it her own home. Lola was known for her exciting parties, which she hosted in her salon. She even had a pet bear! Lola also helped a young girl named Lotta Crabtree. Lotta later became a famous performer herself, and her home was on the same street. Lola Montez left Grass Valley in 1855.
What Happened to the House?
After Lola Montez moved away, the building was changed and updated over the years. By 1975, it was in very poor condition and was declared unsafe. The building you see today is not the exact original house. It is a careful copy of what the house looked like in an old drawing from 1854. Today, this historic building is home to the Nevada County Chamber of Commerce. It also has a small museum inside where you can learn more about its past.
A Special California Landmark
This building in Nevada County, California is recognized as a very important place. It is a California Historical Landmark, number 292. It officially received this special status on July 20, 1938. This means it's protected and remembered for its historical importance in California.
More to Explore
External Links
- Atlas Obscura: Home of Lola Montez — See historic images of the home.
- Grass Valley Chamber of Commerce
