The First Wood Frame House Built North Of San Francisco Is For Sale

In 1851, James Cooper was the wealthiest man in Sonoma County.  Born in Scotland, he settled in Sonoma in 1847 and became an owner of the Blue Wing Inn, one of the imposing adobe structures that anchored the historic Sonoma Plaza, along with the northernmost Franciscan mission in California.

Cooper was given the land for his home by General Vallejo, commander general of the Northern Alta California’s frontier forces and founder of the town of Sonoma. While a few homes were scattered across the mostly empty hills north of San Francisco at that time, they were built of adobe. James Cooper built his house of old-growth redwood, a building material nearly impervious to the elements. Today, the Cooper House, a strong as when it was built, is on the market for only the second time in its long life.  

Cooper was only 45 when he was stabbed to death by the local schoolmaster, but his widow held on to the house. She married a man named Harris and soon, the house’s road was named after him. The property remained in her descendant’s family for 162 years until 2013.

When the current owner bought the house in 2013, it was in near-original condition. The homeowner lovingly restored the historic rooms while adding modern wiring, plumbing, a new kitchen, family room, bedroom and an expansive back porch.   

The home has three ensuite bedrooms, three and one-half baths, a pool house in the former orchard barn, a swimming pool and park-like landscaping. Set on approximately 12 acres, the land includes orchards and six and one-half acres of vineyards planted with Chardonnay grapes.

Much of the interior remains intact, including many of the original furnishings. The layout is that of a classic center-entry with a center hall and parlors on either side; the left parlor has now become the master bedroom. The dining room, kitchen, and family room overlook the pool and vineyards in back. There are two fireplaces. Many of the doors and hardware, including the front doors, pocket doors and faux painted interior doors are intact.  

Energy comes via solar collectors, natural gas, and a PG&E connection. There are lovely vineyard and hills views in all directions.

The Cooper House is listed by Sotheby’s International Realty for $4.995 million; the listing agent is Terry Crisler.

This post first appeared on Forbes.com. To see the original, click here.