Dunsmuir

Alexander Dunsmuir built this spectacular Oakland, California, home in 1899 for his new wife Josephine.The son of a wealthy coal baron, Alexander built the 37-room mansion as both a wedding gift for his beautiful wife and as a showcase of his wealth.

Tragically, Alexander passed away while the new couple was on their honeymoon in New York. Josephine returned to Dunsmuir where she lived alone in her 16,000-square-foot wedding present. Josephine and the home--with its Tiffany-style dome, beautiful wood-paneled rooms and 10 fireplaces--did become important parts of San Francisco high society.