Famous Residents of Pacific Heights

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Pacific Heights, a swanky neighborhood in San Francisco, is famed for its grand Victorian mansions, panoramic views, and a history sprinkled with intriguing personalities. Let's dive into the fascinating world of its famous residents, trivia, and some hidden facts.

Danielle Steel

The prolific romance novelist, Danielle Steel, owns a mansion in Pacific Heights that is as dramatic as her novels. Her home, known as the Spreckels Mansion, was built in 1913 by sugar baron Adolph B. Spreckels. It's rumored that Steel's house is filled with thousands of dolls, making it a whimsical and somewhat eerie place.

Nancy Pelosi

Speaker of the House Nancy Pelosi resides in Pacific Heights when she's not in Washington, D.C. Her multi-million-dollar home is a hub for political strategy meetings and fundraisers. It's said that her neighbors include some of the top figures in tech and finance, making it a hotspot for power and influence.

Robin Williams

The late actor and comedian Robin Williams once called Pacific Heights home. His house, known as the "Mrs. Doubtfire House," became an unofficial landmark after the famous film. Fans still visit to pay homage to the beloved actor and his iconic role.

Julia Morgan

Architect Julia Morgan, the first woman to be licensed as an architect in California, designed several buildings in Pacific Heights. One of her most notable contributions is the Haas-Lilienthal House, a Queen Anne-style home that now serves as a museum.

Dianne Feinstein

Senator Dianne Feinstein is another political heavyweight who has lived in Pacific Heights. Her home has been the site of numerous high-profile political gatherings. Feinstein's influence extends beyond politics, as she has been a key figure in San Francisco's development and preservation efforts.

Hidden Facts and Trivia

  • The Spreckels Mansion: This mansion, now owned by Danielle Steel, was originally built for Adolph B. Spreckels and his wife Alma. Alma was known as the "Great Grandmother of San Francisco" for her philanthropic efforts.

  • The Gold Coast: Pacific Heights is often referred to as "The Gold Coast" due to its affluent residents and luxurious homes. It's one of the most expensive neighborhoods in the United States.

  • The Mrs. Doubtfire House: After Robin Williams' passing, fans turned the sidewalk in front of the house into a makeshift memorial, leaving flowers, notes, and memorabilia.

  • The Flood Mansion: This historic mansion, now the Pacific Union Club, was built by James Leary Flood, a silver magnate. It survived the 1906 earthquake and fire, making it one of the few remaining pre-earthquake structures in the city.

  • Fillmore Street: This bustling street in Pacific Heights is known for its eclectic mix of boutiques, cafes, and restaurants. It's a favorite spot for locals and tourists alike.

  • Alta Plaza Park: Offering stunning views of the city and the bay, this park is a popular spot for picnics, dog walking, and outdoor activities. It's a green oasis amidst the urban landscape.

  • Octagon House: This unique, eight-sided house was built in 1861. It's one of two surviving octagon houses in San Francisco and now serves as a museum showcasing early Americana and Colonial-era artifacts.

  • The Hamlin School: This all-girls private school, founded in 1863, has educated many daughters of the city's elite. Known for its rigorous academics and strong sense of community, it's one of the oldest schools in San Francisco.

  • Lafayette Park: This park is steeped in history, having been a refugee camp after the 1906 earthquake. Today, it's a serene spot with walking paths, playgrounds, and tennis courts.

Celebrities and Socialites

Pacific Heights has also been home to a slew of celebrities and socialites over the years, including:

  • Gordon Getty: The composer and philanthropist, part of the wealthy Getty family, has a mansion in the neighborhood.
  • Ann Getty: A renowned interior designer and socialite, Ann was known for her lavish parties and contributions to the arts.

Architectural Gems

  • Victorian Homes: Pacific Heights is dotted with beautifully restored Victorian homes, each with its own unique history.
  • Modernist Architecture: The neighborhood also features sleek, modernist homes that contrast sharply with the Victorian and Edwardian styles.

Fun Facts

  • Hitchcock's Haunt: Alfred Hitchcock's 1958 film "Vertigo" features scenes shot in Pacific Heights, adding a touch of cinematic history to the neighborhood.
  • Haunted Houses: Some of the older mansions are rumored to be haunted, with tales of ghostly apparitions and unexplained phenomena.

Pacific Heights is a captivating blend of history, luxury, and a touch of the supernatural. Its residents, both past and present, have left an indelible mark on the fabric of San Francisco, making it one of the most intriguing neighborhoods in the city.

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