Back to All Events

Evolution of Storybook Homes: College Court and Normandy Gardens

  • 2800 55th Ave. Oakland, CA, 94605 United States (map)

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

  • 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!

Previous
Previous
August 17

The Evolution of the 12th St. Dam and Key System Routes: A Walking Tour (SOLD OUT!)

Next
Next
August 24

Oakland Chinatown: A Dream of Belonging Tour (SOLD OUT!)