Festive Fun at Two Local Historic Homes
Get into the spirit of the season and visit two Hayward area historic homes this December. Meek Mansion, located at 17365 Boston Road in Cherryland, and McConaghy House, at 18701 Hesperian Boulevard next to Kennedy Park, will be open on the first three Saturdays in December, festively decorated and full of family fun.
Self-guided tours are available between 10:00 AM and 2:00 PM at both sites, with plenty of docents to answer your questions about the properties and the families that that once called these places home. Each open day will feature family crafts and refreshments. Visit with Santa at McConaghy House on December 3rd and at Meek Mansion on December 10th. Listen to stories with Mrs. Claus at McConaghy House on December 17 at 10:00 AM. Listen to the songs of Christmas with members of the Hayward Community Chorus on December 17 at Meek Mansion. During regular open hours, there is a suggested $5 donation, which goes to support the ongoing maintenance of these homes.
Guided tours will be available at Meek Mansion on December 3rd, and at McConaghy House on December 10th. These tours will take guests through the homes to learn about some of the Christmas traditions that turn-of-the-century Americans would have observed, the origins and meanings of Christmas décor, and other tidbits about the winter season. Guided tours are $15 per person, or $10 for HAHS Members. Tickets must be purchased in advance by calling (510) 581-0223.
Private tours are available for groups up to 20 people during the week for a nominal fee, and are a unique way to spend the holidays with your club, group, family, or friends. Private tours can focus on general information about the houses and families or you can choose a Christmas theme that covers holiday traditions. Other topics available include the Architecture of Meek Mansion, the life of Meek servants, and more.
More information about visiting Meek Mansion and McConaghy House in December, as well as the full schedule of activities, is available online at www.haywardareahistory.org or by calling (510) 581-0223.