Observing the William Heath Davis House from the outside, one notices that the architectural style seems out of place, and, as a matter of fact, it is!  Built modularly back in 1850 in Portland, Maine, the house represents an example of a New England salt-box style home.

Because lumber was scarce in San Diego, William Heath Davis ordered enough of it to build 8 – 10 of these houses, shipping it around Cape Horn. Out of all these homes, our historic house museum is the only one still standing in the Gaslamp Quarter, distinguishing it as the oldest wooden structure downtown.

Walk inside and you will be transported back to the Victorian Era, where each room represents a slightly different period and function.   You can experience the feeling of sailing back through time and living the way early San Diegans did.

Self-Guided Tours:  We provide a brochure that relates many fascinating tidbits about the people who lived in the house and their impact on the area formerly known as “New Town.”   Admission: $5.00 or $4.00 for visitors over 55, military or students.  Children under 12 are FREE.

Guided Tours:  We offer docent-guided tours every Tuesday and Thursday from 1:00 to 3:00 PM.  Our knowledgeable docents will supply you with information and stories about the people who lived in this famous house.    Admission for the Guided Tour is $10 or $8 for visitors over 55, military or students.  Children under 12 are FREE.