Featured in dozens of commercials, TV shows, and films, Monrovia’s historic Burr Residence was built in 1893 by Illinois farmer Frank W. Burr for himself and his family, who, after suffering through the “Great Blizzard of 1888,” had fled the chilly Midwest for the balmier climes of the San Gabriel Valley. According to a Monrovia Old House Preservation Group report, Burr drew up plans for the property himself, guided by forms from the book “Picturesque California Homes,” by Samuel and Joseph Cather Newsom, architects of many of San Francisco’s famous “Painted Ladies” as well as a number of exuberant Victorian-style homes in the Los Angeles area.
Finished in clapboard siding and fishlap shingles, the home disperses seven bedrooms and five bathrooms throughout its 4,500 square feet. The home’s main floor includes a light-filled living room with ornate fireplace, a wood-paneled office with built-in bookshelves and a fireplace, a dining room with French doors, and a homey kitchen with a showstopping six-burner, two-oven, one-broiler 1923 Universal gas range. There are also three shaded balconies, front and back porches, and a basement wine cellar.
Expert craftsmanship and unusual details abound on every level, from the delicate wood spindle work to the intricate brass hardware to the period light fixtures to the working intercom system on down to the porcelain on the toilets.
Outside amenities include a swimming pool with spa, abundant fruit trees, and a rose garden. The half-acre property also comes with a two-story carriage house that accommodates up to six cars, complete with a professional walk-in pit for underbelly work.
Making its first appearance on the open market, the landmark home is listed with Deasy Penner Podley agent Matthew Berkley for an asking price of $1.9 million.
