The Little Landers Historical Society (LLHS) of Bolton Hall Museum has curated an exciting array of properties for the May 10 Sunland-Tujunga home tour. Six historical and architecturally interesting locations are featured in this self-guided tour.  

Knowledgeable docents will be on hand to engage tour goers with captivating stories that bring to life these homes and the families who built them. Included are a pioneer stone home, a fort, a castle, a sanctuary and one place with “a view to die for.” Some locations are more than 110 years old and are listed as city of Los Angeles Historic Cultural Monuments.

The tour is a fundraiser for LLHS, which will use the proceeds to not only fund operating expenses for the museum but also extend a donation to the San Gabriel Valley Habitat for Humanity’s ReBuild LA Campaign to assist the victims of the Eaton Fire. The intent of the tour is to emphasize the pioneering spirit that founded the foothills community. The organizers feel deeply connected to the history that was lost on Jan. 7.

Among the featured homes is Weatherwolde Castle, a preservation victory story. Saved from the wrecking ball in the 11^th hour by a group of determined neighbors in 2005, this mini-castle is now restored and listed as #841 on the Historic – Cultural Monuments list by the City of Los Angeles. Also featured is the Rowley house in Sunland constructed in 1905. It’s a fine example of “vernacular architecture” with its Arroyo stone construction – one of the oldest of its kind still in existence.  The Rowley family operated the first general store in Monte Vista (now known as Sunland) at the turn of the 20^th century. Other buildings include The Sanctuary that is described as “a form that rises naturally from the firm foundation of the mountains and hills that cradle Tujunga,” and The Fort – aptly named for its crenelated roofline – a sight to behold. And finally, the Verdugo Hills Cemetery established in 1922. Its mausoleum is noteworthy and stands at the edge of a view that takes the eye far into the western horizon.

Admission to the tour is $30 for LLHS members and $35 for non-members if purchased in advance. All tickets are $40 on the day of the tour. The event is May 10 from 10 a.m.-4 p.m.  For more information and ticket purchasing options visit www.boltonhall.org.