Old House Club Meet Up Feb. 12 SOLD OUT

Special Valentine’s Day Edition of the Old House Club – Feb. 12, 5-6:30 pm

THIS EVENT IS SOLD OUT

Join Napa County Landmarks for a special Valentine’s edition of Old House Club, hosted by homeowners Janet Brennan and David Lodder, whose Late Victorian Cottage offers a compelling reminder that the best houses—like the best relationships—are built to last.

Originally constructed in 1885 and thoughtfully relocated to its current site in 1908, this cottage has lived many lives: home, workplace, neighborhood hub, and even a tamale parlor. Built of old-growth redwood (with visible saw marks from a massive 36-inch blade), the house carries its history proudly, while a recent three-year restoration has ensured it’s ready for its next chapter.

Mix and mingle while enjoying the festive atmosphere and art collection. Space is limited to 40 guests—reserve your spot soon!

Date: Feb. 12, 2026

Time: 5:00-6:30 pm

Location: 1020 Vallejo Street, Napa, CA, 94559

Do you live in an old house—or dream of one? Join us for a lively evening with fellow old-house enthusiasts to share stories, resources, and inspiration about preserving Napa’s historic homes. This free, informal gathering is open to everyone who loves old houses—no experience required, just enthusiasm! (Donations are gladly accepted to help support future meetups and hands-on workshops.)

Interested in hosting a gathering at your Old House? Contact Christine Madrid French, Executive Director of Napa County Landmarks at 707-231-8261 or christine@napacountylandmarks.org.

Donations are always welcome to help us host more meet-ups and hands-on workshops. Donate with your ticket or on our website here.

About 1020 Vallejo Street

• Built: 1885
• Relocated to Current Site: 1908
• Style: Late Victorian Cottage

A Home with Stories to Tell

Built in 1885 and relocated to its current site in 1908, this Late Victorian Cottage has been a residence, a business hub, and a reflection of Napa’s evolving history. Constructed of old-growth redwood—complete with saw marks from an enormous 36-inch blade—this home retains the character of its past while embracing thoughtful updates for modern living. Its recent three-year restoration, led by architect Jackie Mendez and contractor Mark Dew-Hiersoux, has breathed new life into the property while preserving its unique charm. The owners, Janet and David, designed the interior with an eclectic and historical style, ensuring the house’s “soul” remains intact.

Inside, the house is a blend of old and new. Cat6 internet cabling, app-controlled lighting and locks, and ductless HVAC units bring the convenience of modern technology, while original features like the Douglas Fir floors, handmade architectural details, and historical fixtures anchor the home in its past. The center hall reveals muslin, newspaper, and horsehair walls, a nod to early construction methods, alongside heirlooms like a portrait of Janet’s grandmother and a vintage Staffordshire poodle lamp.

Each room tells a story. The living room features a fireplace mantel repurposed from salvaged materials, paired with custom artwork inspired by the owners’ love story. The kitchen, once a three-sided porch, now boasts a LaCornue stove like Julia Child’s, hand-carved oak window frames, and whimsical champagne cork floor plugs.

Throughout its history, the home has hosted families, businesses, and even a tamale parlor. From the Bird family in 1908 to the Imperial Tamale Parlor in the 1920s, its walls have witnessed generations of life and enterprise. Today, this restored gem stands as a vibrant tribute to Napa’s architectural heritage and the creativity of its stewards.