Marston House in San Diego: History in Balboa Park

What is the Marston House Museum?

The George Marston House is located in San Diego's Balboa Park, covering 790 square meters and surrounded by five acres of lush greenery. Built in 1905, this residence is considered one of the finest examples of the architectural style of the time.

The house was converted into a museum in 1987 after being gifted to the city by its owners. Currently, the Marston House Museum is managed by the organization Save Our Heritage Organization (SOHO), preserving the legacy of this architectural gem.

Who Was George Marston?

George Marston was one of the most prominent public figures in San Diego’s history. Born on October 22, 1850, in Wisconsin, Marston moved to San Diego in 1870. He initially worked as a clerk at the Horton House Hotel and then joined a storage and warehousing business, where he later became a partner. In 1878, after splitting the business with his partner, Marston focused on dry goods, eventually establishing one of San Diego’s leading department stores.

Marston’s influence on San Diego's landscape was profound, and when he passed away in 1946 at the age of 96, he was honored as the "First Citizen of San Diego" for his lifetime of public service and dedication to the city's betterment.

History of the Marston House

The Marston House, built in 1905 for George White and Anna Gunn Marston, is one of the finest examples of California Arts and Crafts architecture and a key historical landmark in San Diego. The home was later listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Today, it serves as the starting point for numerous walking tours through the surrounding neighborhoods, with group tours being particularly popular.

The adjacent garden spans five acres and features lush exotic trees, shrubs, grapevines, and flowers. One notable plant is the geranium, symbolizing the Marston family. During George Marston's two mayoral campaigns, his opponents coined the slogan “smokestacks versus geraniums,” highlighting the contrast between industrial development and Marston's vision of a greener San Diego.

The Marston family resided in the house until 1987, after which it was donated to the city and converted into a museum. Today, the Marston House Museum is a unique historical site, attracting both tourists and locals with its tours and cultural events. The museum also boasts one of the city’s finest gift shops, offering a curated selection of books on architecture and various arts and crafts items.

Architectural Features

The Marston House exemplifies the Arts and Crafts movement, which originated in England in the late 19th century. This architectural style emphasizes the use of natural materials, simplicity, and functionality. The house's facade, constructed from rough-hewn stone and wooden panels, strikes a balance between beauty and modesty. Inside, the home is adorned with intricate wood carvings, mosaic elements, and handcrafted works by artisans of the time. Particularly striking are the stained-glass windows and cozy fireplaces, which lend a sense of warmth and harmony to the home’s interior.

Tours and Events

The Marston House Museum is open to visitors, offering a variety of tour programs that highlight both the history of the Marston family and the architectural features of the building. Guests can learn about George Marston’s contributions to the development of San Diego and his important role in preserving the city’s cultural heritage. In addition to the tours, the museum hosts various cultural events and exhibitions that attract not only history enthusiasts but also architecture lovers. It is often chosen as a venue for events such as lectures, concerts, and art exhibitions, making it a true cultural hub in the city.

Garden tours are available during the summer, every Saturday and Sunday, lasting 45 minutes, from 11:00 AM to 3:00 PM. During these tours, visitors are introduced to the grand restoration plans for one of California’s few surviving decorative landscapes. During the off-season, tours are available by appointment only.

Useful Tips for Visitors

1. 01.Operating Hours
   The Marston House is open from Thursday to Sunday, from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM. It's recommended to plan your visit in advance, especially on weekends when there may be limited capacity.
2. 02.Ticket Prices
   Admission is charged for entry. Adults can purchase tickets for $15, and children under 12 can visit for free. Discounts are available for students and seniors.
3. 03.Best Time to Visit
   The best times to visit the Marston House are in spring or autumn when San Diego’s weather is especially pleasant for a stroll through Balboa Park, where the museum is located.