The NeverEnding Story…
Welcome to ‘The Anthony House’, a shining landmark, the most famous among Alameda’s thousand Victorians as a quintessential example of period Italianate architecture at its finest. Built circa 1880by John Anthony, a freight agent for Central Pacific Railroad, and memorialized for over a century in countless paintings, photographs, and articles, 1630 Central is a highlight of heritage and home tours, stopping passers-by in their tracks. Passing from the Anthonys to their carefully selected successors, the Glovers, in the early 1970’s, this Gold Coast gem has been zealously preserved as a treasured heirloom by only these two families; now, a search is on for its fortunate new guardians. A dream opportunity for any preservationist, design aficionado, or history lover, this property on over a third of an acre includes sprawling English gardens and a separate multi-use carriage house constructed in 1976. Now is your chance to write the next chapter in this story, building your own legacy on the new foundation, rich past, and uber-romantic history of love.
Iconic. From the majestic magnolia to the sweep of lawn, the sweet magnetism of nostalgia beckons immediately. Statuesque yet somehow delicate, ornamented with gold leaf, the main residence reaches towards the sky, showstopping in its grandeur. Demarcating its Italianate pedigree, gilded Corinthian columns support the pediment roof of the entrance porch and pipestem colonettes flank a plethora of double tiered slanted bay windows, showering the interior in natural light. The conservation efforts of conscientious and proud homeowners shine through in every carefully curated detail: stenciling, trompe l’oeil, original wood moldings, vintage sconces and fixtures all retain their luster. Updates have been made with the integrity of the original design in mind, creating a harmonious and peaceful effect. Soaring ceilings, constructed extra high to accommodate the gas-light fixtures of the time, now serve as dramatic focal points.
Irresistible. Decadent living spaces transcend fleeting trends with timeless elegance, making you swoon—so typically Victorian! The main level segues from the entrance foyer to formal entertaining areas united by extra wide, open doorways that create an ahead-of-their-time great room experience. The giant office pays tribute to the historical importance of the home library, now equally impressive as a modern-day Zoom studio. The modernized kitchen features Viking professional range and two walk-in pantries, but still retains the warmth and intimacy of the family hearth. Upstairs, the residential level houses three large bedrooms and a bath with an aniconic footed tub. The retreat-like primary bedroom will lure you into relaxation with its bay windowed reading nook, attached dressing room. Each bedroom has its own sink. On the basement level, go utilitarian with existing huge storage areas, laundry room, half bath and sauna.
Incomparable. Imagine the Anthony family’s elegant soirees, centered around the parlor fireplace, the guests a ‘who’s who’ of Alameda society and important railroad magnates. It was no accident that the Glovers were honored as the next stewards of this special property; not only did they have an abiding love for each other and for the house itself, but they also continued the railroad lineage. Alan Glover was a railroad engineer, avid enthusiast, and collector, who constructed the carriage house to store antiques, memorabilia, and autos, even a “Hermann” safe. This bonus space offers over a thousand square feet on each of two levels and is equally suitable for use as a deluxe ADU, car barn, workshop, gym, or studio. The surrounding gardens shun Victorian restraint with their wild array of ferns and flowers, arranged to appear ‘natural’ and unfettered even though carefully planned. Past, present, and future cavort here in fragrant blossoms and heavy fruits, echoing the epic tales of the generations who will call this amazing residence “home”. Will you be next in line?
