Poet/author Joaquin Miller spent his last decades on his 75-acre estate, The Hights, planting about 75,000 trees, farming, entertaining, writing. Learn about his life with his wife Abigail, and daughter Juanita. Visit the Abbey, the Follies, and monuments that survive, more than 100 years later. The WPA Cascades and Woodminster Theatre were Juanita’s idea, a tribute to the poets and writers of California. Hear about current restoration projects and issues at the park.
A hilly walk.
Pre-registration is required for this tour.
Meeting Location: The Abbey, aka Joaquin Miller House, a small white house in the park, is adjacent to the road, but has no street number. Approximately 3020 Joaquin Miller Rd.
Fees: $15 Members / $20 Non-Members.
Tour Guide: Dale Risden is Chair of “Friends of Joaquin Miller Park” and has led the effort to restore JM Abbey. His current effort is restoring the Cascade Reflecting Pool and Fountain and organizing community projects to reduce fire issues within the Park. Dale has been recognized with several Partners in Preservation Awards for his work
Accessibility Note:
This tour has some hills. Those with mobility devices may find paths difficult to navigate at times.
NOTES:
PLEASE MEET 15 MINUTES BEFORE listed time to allow for registration.
We offer fee waivers for limited income residents— just ask!
Comfortable walking shoes, sun hats and sunscreen are recommended. Bring water.
Vouchers, limited-income accommodation, and any other special circumstances should be handled in advance. Please email info@oaklandheritage.org for assistance
If you need assistance navigating Eventbrite, please reach out to us at info@oaklandheritage.org or call our office at (510) 763-9218 and we’d be happy to help.
Due to the ongoing presence of Covid, we will continue to make masks available. If you feel ill the day of a tour, please stay home. If after a tour, you become ill and test positive, please let us know as soon as possible. Thank you.
Please check out the profiles of tour leaders. We are grateful for their skill and generosity.
These tours support Oakland Heritage Alliance, a non-profit that tells Oakland’s story through walking tours, lectures, newsletters and advocacy. We welcome volunteers and new members!
