Evolution of Storybook Homes: College Court and Normandy Gardens Tour

Join two knowledgeable locals in Central East Oakland near Mills College to explore the legacy of 1920’s housing developer and architect, Hillen & Dixon. Their Modest Mansions’ first appeared a century ago along Morse Drive, then two years later culminated with a unique collection of homes on Picardy Drive a block away. Picardy Drive, called Normandy Gardens in that era, retains much of its original design and Storybook Bungalow charm; it’s also considered Oakland’s Christmas Tree Lane for its annual holiday lighting traditions. We’ll see excerpts from Hillen & Dixon’s published works—with photographs and plans—of College Court homes, and visit inside a few homes to observe the interior details. A level walk.

Meeting Location: 2800 55th Ave., Oakland, CA 94605

Tour Guide: Andy Carpentier & Kara Nielsen

NOTES:

• PLEASE MEET 15 MINUTES BEFORE listed time to allow for registration.
• We kindly request you register in advance. In-person registration will be first-come-first-served on a space available basis. We cannot guarantee a spot will be available.
• We offer fee waivers for limited income residents— just ask!
• Comfortable walking shoes, sun hats and sunscreen are recommended. Bring water.
• Vouchers, limited-income accommodation, and any other special circumstances should be handled in advance. Please email [email protected] for assistance
• Check your email the morning of the walking tour for any last-minute changes, clarifications, or cancellation.
• If you need assistance navigating Eventbrite, please reach out to us at [email protected] or call our office at (510) 763-9218 and we’d be happy to help.
• Due to the ongoing presence of Covid, we will continue to make masks available. If you feel ill the day of a tour, please stay home. If after a tour, you become ill and test positive, please let us know as soon as possible. Thank you.
• Please check out the profiles of tour leaders. We are grateful for their skill and generosity.
• These tours support Oakland Heritage Alliance, a non-profit that tells Oakland’s story through walking tours, lectures, newsletters and advocacy. We welcome volunteers and new members!

Accessibility Note: A level walk.

About Oakland Heritage Alliance

Oakland Heritage Alliance is a 501(c)(3) non-profit membership organization which advocates the protection, preservation, and revitalization of Oakland's architectural, historic, cultural and natural resources through publications, education, and direct action.

Host or Publisher Oakland Heritage Alliance