PETALUMA ADOBE STATE HISTORIC PARK
Petaluma Adobe State Historic Park was the main residence of Rancho Petaluma, the agricultural empire that General Mariano Guadalupe Vallejo one of the most powerful men in the Mexican Province of California from 1834 to 1846.
Vallejo ran his cattle, hide and tallow business, raised sheep, bred horses, and grew numerous crops. The adobe contains authentic furniture and exhibits depicting early rancho life.
The huge adobe building, the largest private rancho in California between 1834 and 1846, was the center of activity on one of the most prosperous private estates established during the Mexican period.
The park has shaded picnic areas with views of farmland and oak-studded hills.
Located in Petaluma, California, the park is home to one of the largest adobe structures still standing. The Adobe was built between 1836 and 1846 by General Mariano Guadalupe Vallejo as part of his vast Rancho de Petaluma land grant. It served as a working ranch that produced cattle hides and tallow for trade.
The structure fell into disrepair after Vallejo's death but was purchased by a group called "Native Sons of Golden West" in 1910 who worked on its restoration until it became state property in 1951. In recognition of its historical significance, it has been designated both a National Historic Landmark (in1963) and also listed on the National Register Of Historic Places (in1978).
Today, visitors can tour this historic building which offers insights into life during Mexican rule over Alta California before U.S annexation.