An outstanding and unsurpassed example of the Arts and Crafts architectural movement of the early 20th Century, the Marston House is situated on five acres of landscaped grounds with a formal English Romantic garden. Built in 1905 for the prominent civic leader and merchant George Marston and his family, the house is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The house is furnished with original pieces and decorative arts from the early American Arts and Crafts period, the distinctive collection including Mission style pieces like those designed by brothers, Gustav, Leopold and John George Stickley, and a range of pottery, textiles, and paintings created by world-renowned Craftsman artisans.
Local architects William Hebbard and Irving Gill designed the house based on the hallmark Arts and Crafts style, emphasizing simplicity, function, and natural materials. Its 8,500 square foot interior features the wide hallways, brick fireplaces, and intimate living areas so particular to the era.
Marston, a philanthropist and department store owner born in 1850, was involved with establishing Balboa Park, the San Diego Public Library System, and the Serra Museum, contributions which helped to earn him the affectionate title of "San Diego's First Citizen." Marston's daughter Mary donated the house to the city of San Diego in 1987.
Attraction Information
- Hours:
- Friday through Sunday: 10am to 4pm
- Guided tours: Friday through Sunday. Please call for times.
- Admission:
- Free
- Contact:
- Address: 3525 Seventh Avenue, San Diego, CA
- Phone: 619-298-3142
- Website: www.sandiegohistory.org
