History and Mystery of the Whaley House

Book excerpt: Dozens of fascinating historic photographs, many never before seen or published, illustrate this compelling guide to the famously haunted Whaley House Museum in San Diego. The History & Mystery of the Whaley House illuminates the history of the pioneer Whaley family and their magnificent 1850s brick mansion, dispelling myths and providing heretofore unknown facts and information about this popular tourist destination, and of the spirits known to inhabit this historic haunt. Culled from the Whaley House archives, journals, letters, historical documents, photographs, and other ephemera help relate the legend of this remarkable historic house museum.San Diego was just a sleepy little town when pioneer merchant and civic leader Thomas Whaley first arrived in 1851. Surrounded mostly by small adobe houses, his imposing residence quickly became a center of social activity for the community upon its completion in 1857. Though tragedy often visited the family, they persevered to become a well-known and respected staple of San Diego society, with youngest daughter Lillian residing in the house until shortly before her death in 1953.Since taking over operations of the museum in 2000, Save Our Heritage Organisation (SOHO) has done an impressive job restoring the house to its nineteenth century appearance, with period furnishings, decorative treatments, and many actual Whaley family pieces on display throughout. Historic uses of the building, beyond being home to the Whaley family, include the San Diego County Courthouse, the Whaley & Crosthwaite General Store, and the Tanner Troupe Theater, all of which have been restored to the Whaley House. The restoration is showcased in this publication through stunning color photographs and engaging room descriptions.