Located in Martinez, California, sits the historical site of the Victorian home and property of the late John Muir, or as many refer to him, “Father of the National Parks.” Being a self-proclaimed National Parks enthusiast, Mr. Muir holds a special place dear to me. So, when I was venturing out in towns and cities near my new Bay Area address, I was pleasantly surprised to learn of this wonderful place and planned a visit as quickly as possible!
A little history
John Muir was an emigrant to the United States from the coastal plains of Scotland. As a young man, he lived in the dense woods of Wisconsin on a farm and fell in love with the wonder of nature and its beauty. He was curious, smart, hard-working, innovative, and a dreamer. He worked as a writer, inventor, and various odd jobs into adulthood. But his passions lay in being a roamer of wildland and dwelling in nature. He found himself at home in Yosemite, California, where his deep connection with the earth and her mountains cultivated amongst the snow that fell in winter, and the wildflowers that bloomed in spring.
Muir was forever changed by such natural and wild beauty as his often wrote poetically, here is an excerpt from one of his journal entries: “from the top of the ridge on the west side of Indian Cañon gained the noblest view of the summit peaks I have ever yet enjoyed. Nearly all the upper basin of the Merced was displayed, with its sublime domes and cañons, dark upsweeping forests, and glorious array of white peaks deep in the sky, every feature glowing, radiating beauty that pours into our flesh and bones like heat rays from fire. Sunshine over all; no breath of wind to stir the brooding calm. Never before had I seen so glorious a landscape, so boundless an affluence of sublime mountain beauty.“
I could go on, but I stop here with his History to explain that much of the protected land in Yosemite is thanks to John Muir ♥
Hours, parking, and info
The Historic site is open 7 days a week, 10 AM – 5 PM (except Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Day, and New Year’s Day) and the Entrance and parking are FREE. The Old Victorian house is a beautiful museum full of history and some of Muir’s family’s cherished belongings, personal writings, and drawings. The grounds are lovely and beckon you for a stroll. There are various spots to picnic (but beware yellowjackets do pester you for your food here.) They allow for special events such as weddings with a reservation and permit. This site also operates Mount Wanda for some hiking and Ranger-led events.
Recommendations
Do watch the 20-minute film that details the life of John Muir and his sacred love for nature before touring the Victorian home and grounds. This is located in the Visitor’s Center upon entry. Just ask the Volunteer or Park Ranger manning the center if you can watch the film, and if it is not already showing they will be happy to put it on for you.
Save the shopping and perusing for later when you are leaving the site. Something you see or learn from the tour may inspire you in a whole new way. So before you buy get the entire experience.
There are restrooms in the center, so may as well use them before you head out to take your self-tour.
I would not suggest picnicking here. The yellowjackets were aggressively trying to get at our sandwiches, (or at least be prepared to deal with them.)
Do be respectful of the home and land. It is an honor we get to go and learn about his legacy and what he contributed to all of us being able to see the splendor of our National Parks ♥
Ring the bell in the attic bell tower. It just might bring you some joy.
Go! You will not be disappointed.
For more information on this Beautiful Historic National site, visit HERE.
Cheers to your adventures my friends ♥
One comment on “John Muir Historic Site”