So, wouldn't usually post something this trashed but this place has an interesting history and I think it deserves a write up....

We saw this place for the first time about 7 years ago.... before we were even UER members! Other members have been there since (but haven't posted it on this site).
On our most recent visit we saw that it was far more wrecked and despite being listed as a landmark, I don't see it lasting much longer so I think it's time to share.

Built in 1886 for James H. Francis (a mercantile store/ranch owner),
This house was a perfect example of the "second empire" style (it is one of the best examples of this style of architecture in Calistoga and is the only stone version).
It boasted a square floor plan, Mansard roof, bracketed eaves and ornamental shingles.
It had a projecting central pavilion and gorgeous semicircular/arched windows and doors.
Built by John Sexton, the total cost of construction for the house (including the stone that was quarried south of the city) was $7,400.

Sadly, Mr. Francis only had a few years to enjoy his majestic new home, he died in 1891.

Col. Myron E. Billings (a civil war veteran, his company was attached to the First United States Sharpshooters) and his wife, purchased the property after the death of J. H. Francis.
After the Civil war, Myron Billings practiced law before moving to California.
President Grant appointed him "Justice of US criminal courts" (he also served as Calistoga's city attorney). Judge Billings kept his law office there until his death in 1918. His widow Delia (also an attorney), sold the property and moved to Oakland.

In 1918 the home was sold to Mabel Martin, a nurse. She married Reverend C.L. Peterson and the house then changed from a residence to a hospital.

While functioning as a hospital 2 additions were added ( a 1 story and a 2 story).
Both are wood framed and covered with either stucco or metal panels stamped to look like ashlar.
The house served as a hospital from 1918 through 1964 (it changed ownership a few times in the mid to late 1940's).
It has stood vacant ever since.



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In 2008 a Napa developer had plans to transform the former hospital property into a 25-room inn and spa featuring several bungalows, a new dining facility and several cold pools plus a 26 car parking lot....(pretty big aspirations considering the condition it's in now).


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The things you discover once you start researching these abandonments that we so casually stumble upon, are really fascinating..... So many colorful characters and stories involved, everything frozen in time.

I hope some of you will visit this house and read up on James Francis, Myron Billings, and Mabel Peterson for instance.
For those of you that have already been there, I hope that you'll take this opportunity to add your own photos/stories......thanks for reading

(cell pics, sorry)

Very nice Bonnie and/or Clyde! Great write-up as always.

You guys are on a roll!

I doubt the neighbors would have liked all that activity going on in the neighborhood. 29 car parking lot?

Haunting and gorgeous! Thanks for posting this

I have seen that sticker before hmm. Person must get around.

Posted by Evilbunny I have seen that sticker before hmm. Person must get around.

I know him...he's pretty slutty.

great set.

Oh! This is the thread you mentioned! I'm glad I found this, you guys have great pictures. And more on the history! How did you come across that?

Thanks!
Yeah I just saw an article about it. Immediately ran out there lol.
It was our first post after being gone for a year.
Started a fire in my belly again ;)

Posted by bonnie&clyde Thanks! Yeah I just saw an article about it. Immediately ran out there lol. It was our first post after being gone for a year. Started a fire in my belly again ;)

Awesome! It's funny how you can find these places through articles and stuff like that. It really is a great find. Still can't believe it's in the middle of a residential community.

STILL can't believe they're asking for nearly a million to anyone who wants to buy it...

Posted by Flashyfashionfraud Awesome! It's funny how you can find these places through articles and stuff like that. It really is a great find. Still can't believe it's in the middle of a residential community. STILL can't believe they're asking for nearly a million to anyone who wants to buy it...

Exactly. The article said it was to be demo'd but obviously it hasn't so there was no need to rush I guess
Wish I had pics from before it was so trashed but either they're on an oollllldddddd phone or we didn't take any

Awe, how beautiful!! This would've been gorgeous back in the day!