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 historic building in downtown Grass Valley, California. You can find it at 248 Mill Street. This house was once owned by Lola Montez, a famous dancer and performer from the 1800s. She moved here in 1853, and it was the only home she ever truly owned.
Contents
A Look Back: The Home's History
This building has an interesting past, even before Lola Montez lived there!
Early Days in Grass Valley
In November 1850, the town of Grass Valley held its very first election. This important event happened right under a big oak tree, exactly where the house stands today.
Just one year later, in 1851, a building was constructed on this spot. It was first used as an office for a gold mining company called Gilmor Meredith's Gold Hill Mining Company. Imagine miners coming and going from this very building!
Then, in 1852, the building changed its purpose again. It became a schoolhouse, teaching the children of Grass Valley.
Lola Montez's Time in the House
Lola Montez arrived in Grass Valley in 1853. She bought the building and made it her own home. Lola was known for being quite unique!
She loved to host gatherings in her home, where people would come to visit. She even had a pet bear! Lola also helped a young girl named Lotta Crabtree, who later became a very famous child actress. Lotta's own home, which is now a historical landmark, was on the same street.
Lola Montez lived in this house for about two years, leaving Grass Valley in 1855.
What Happened to the House Later?
After Lola left, the building was changed and updated over the years. By 1975, it needed a lot of repairs and was declared unsafe.
Today, the building you see is a careful copy of the original house. It looks just like it did in a drawing from 1854! Now, it's home to the Nevada County Chamber of Commerce and a small museum. You can visit the museum to learn more about the area's history.
A Special California Landmark
This building in Nevada County, California is recognized as a California Historical Landmark. It's number 292 on the list! It officially became a landmark on July 20, 1938.
See also
