Sam Shueh
Realty One Group
San Jose, CA
When I see an old home or a street there are always something of historical interest that most people overlooked. The Alameda street near downtown San Jose, California is an example. It is 18 blocks long connecting downtown San Jose which was known as El Pueblo de San Jose de Guadalupe to Mission Santa Clara. The Mission later became University of Santa Clara built by the native Americans. Irrigation ditches brought water from Guadalupe Creek to the fields around Mission Santa Clara. They are approximately where the trolley rails are one century later.
The Alameda with horse drawn trolley on both sides circa late 19 c (san Jose -Santa Clara RR)
As America took over from the Mexican rule the stage coach operators from southern California to Mission Delores (San Francisco), were Butterfield and Wells Fargo Stage coach. They existed from 19th century until the arrival of electric trolleys.
There has not been systematic study from 17th century on the historical changes in this neighborhood. But during the 19th and early 20th century, the Alameda attracted many well to do families who built magnificent homes along the Street. Many were downtown businessman and physicians affiliated with O'Connor Hospital when it was at San Carlos Street and Meridian Avenue (today Safeway Store, after Sears department store) before moving to Forest Street and Bascom Avenue.
ex Dunne mansion
Many of these beautiful mansions have been razed for commercial buildings while a few are beautifully restored used as lawyer offices. The original owners were mostly prominent businessman, mayor etc. My favorite is Old Republic Title at closings where I can go inside and appreciate good buildings.
There is also a horse race track on Race Street. That was the original county Fair Ground until Naglee development occurs around 1901 into four phases. That predated the Rose Garden project. The Fair Ground moved to John Tully's ranch which still remains.
Another Mansion on The Alameda
There is not much systematic research done on the neighborhood. A few mansions are registered as historical homes and many have been converted or razed. There are hardly any photographs in existance of the race track(Race Street).
However, there are a lot vivid memories on the July 4th parade. This one is from a Thai restaurateur advicing her restaurant will be reopened.
Sources:
The Alameda Business Association (The Alameda Video)
Shueh, Sam How is my Silicon Valley home worth? (Silicon Valley Home Values)
San Jose City events (San Jose, CA events)
Shueh, Sam Silicon Valley, publisher Arcadia Publishings
Silicon Valley Real Estate July 2016 (San Jose area real estate update)
Shueh, Sam (Real EstateBlogs)
Sam Shueh Realtor
I've called San Francisco South Bay home for over 30 years. We love this area and all it has to offer, and I enjoy sharing what I know about homes. I documented in several books about Silicon Valley history. I have much expertise in real estate...please give me a call. SamshuehRealtor@gmail.com
(Four-O-Eight) 425-1601
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