The Cliff House
The Cliff House was originally built in 1863 and has gone through three architectural styles since its inception.
The first lasted until Christmas of 1894, when it burned down due to a defective flue.
In 1896, Adolph Sutro built the “Gingerbread Palace”, which is the one Melantha was murdered at. This Victorian chateau survived the infamous 1906 quake, only to burn down in September of 1907.
The last incarnation was a neoclassical style, built in concrete. However, it was renovated several times starting in the 1940s. As Baxter stated, it was an “atrocity and scar on prime real estate.” This is the same building his mother painted on the mural with Zoe on the beach.
In 2005, it was returned to the neoclassical design. Sadly, The Cliff House closed its doors in 2020. Hopefully, one day, it will re-open.
Check out the following websites for more detailed information. (A new window will open)
https://www.outsidelands.org/cliffhouse.php
https://www.inside-guide-to-san-francisco-tourism.com/cliff-house-san-francisco.html
https://www.nps.gov/goga/learn/historyculture/cliff-house.htm
Sutro Baths
The Sutro Baths opened in 1894, by the same man responsible for the beautiful Victorian Cliff House, a swimming facility that was styled in classic Greek design. The glass structure featured seven pools, slides, diving boards, art, and history exhibits, and was powered by the sea and new the technology of turbines. A sky gondola tram was also available, but due to the salt and spray of the sea, it was not safe. Sadly, it was never profitable and closed in 1966, only to burn down by fire the same year. Its ruins are now a historical landmark.
Check out the following websites for more detailed information.
https://www.nps.gov/goga/learn/historyculture/sutro-baths.htm
https://www.inside-guide-to-san-francisco-tourism.com/sutro-baths.html
Other Sites
Seal Rock Inn
Seal Rock Inn is the place Zoe & Baxter stay at because it is within walking distance to The Cliff House, Ocean Beach, and Sutro Bath Ruins.
Baxter Family Home
There is no real location for Baxter's home that he sold in the 50s. However, these homes inspired his home, especially the Queen Anne style found in San Francisco.
