San Francisco row houses facts for kids

The San Francisco row houses, also known as Painted Ladies, are beautiful and colorful homes found in San Francisco, California. These houses were built during the Victorian and Edwardian times. They are famous for being painted with three or more bright colors, a style sometimes called polychrome, which means "many colors."

What Are the Painted Ladies?

The Painted Ladies are a group of Victorian and Edwardian houses. They stand out because of their detailed designs and vibrant paint. These homes are a popular sight in San Francisco. Many people visit to see their unique beauty.

A Splash of Color

The term "Painted Ladies" refers to houses painted in multiple colors. This style became popular in the 1960s. Before that, many of these homes were painted in duller colors, or even just gray. The bright colors help show off the detailed woodwork and features of the houses.

Where Can You Find Them?

The most famous group of Painted Ladies is located at 710–720 Steiner Street. This row of houses faces Alamo Square Park. From this spot, you can see the colorful homes with the San Francisco skyline in the background. This view is very famous and has appeared in many movies and TV shows.

The "Postcard Row"

The houses on Steiner Street are often called "Postcard Row." This is because their view is so iconic. It's like a perfect picture from a postcard. People love to take photos here, capturing the blend of old architecture and modern city views.

History of San Francisco's Homes

After the California Gold Rush in the mid-1800s, San Francisco grew very quickly. Many homes were built during this time. Most of these houses were made from redwood. This wood was easy to get from nearby forests.

Victorian and Edwardian Styles

The homes built between 1849 and 1915 are often called Victorian or Edwardian.

• Victorian homes were built during the reign of Queen Victoria (1837-1901). They often have fancy details, towers, and decorative trim.
• Edwardian homes were built during the reign of King Edward VII (1901-1910). These houses are usually simpler than Victorian ones. They often have wider hallways and more open rooms.

The 1906 Earthquake

In 1906, a huge earthquake and fire hit San Francisco. This disaster destroyed many buildings. However, about 48,000 Victorian and Edwardian homes survived. Many of the Painted Ladies are among these survivors. They stand as a reminder of the city's past.

Why So Many Colors?

Originally, many Victorian homes were painted in simple colors. But in the 1960s, a new trend began. An artist named Butch Kardum started painting his Victorian house in bright, bold colors. Other people loved the idea and started doing the same.

The "Colorist Movement"

This trend became known as the "colorist movement." It was a way to bring life and fun back to the old houses. The bright paints made the detailed carvings and designs on the homes stand out even more. It turned ordinary streets into vibrant, artistic displays.

The Painted Ladies in Pop Culture

The Painted Ladies have become symbols of San Francisco. They are often featured in movies, TV shows, and advertisements.

Famous Appearances

One of the most famous appearances of the Painted Ladies is in the opening credits of the TV show Full House. This show helped make the houses known around the world. Many fans of the show visit San Francisco just to see these famous homes. They have also appeared in many other films and commercials, making them a global icon.