Join two knowledgeable locals in Central East Oakland near Mills College to explore the legacy of 1920’s housing developer and architect, Hillen & Dixon. Their ‘Modest Mansions’ first appeared a century ago along Morse Drive, then two years later culminated with a unique collection of homes on Picardy Drive a block away. Picardy Drive, called Normandy Gardens in that era, retains much of its original design and Storybook Bungalow charm; it’s also considered Oakland’s Christmas Tree Lane for its annual holiday lighting traditions. We’ll see excerpts from Hillen & Dixon’s published works—with photographs and plans—of College Court homes, and visit inside a few homes to observe the interior details.
A level walk.
Meeting Location: 2800 55th Ave., Oakland, CA 94605
Tour Guide: Andy Carpentier & Kara Nielsen
Fees: $15 Members / $20 Non-Members.
Accessibility Note: A level walk.
NOTES:
PLEASE MEET 15 MINUTES BEFORE listed time to allow for registration.
We kindly request you register in advance. In-person registration will be first-come-first-served on a space available basis. We cannot guarantee a spot will be available.
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
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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!