Catalina Verdugo Adobe
Glendale’s oldest structure and the historic birthplace of Rancho San Rafael
The History of the Catalina Verdugo Adobe
Built around 1828, the Catalina Verdugo Adobe holds the distinction of being the oldest standing structure in the City of Glendale. Constructed by Teodoro Verdugo, grandson of the Spanish corporal José María Verdugo, the home was built on the vast 36,000-acre Rancho San Rafael land grant original awarded in 1784. The adobe was created as a home for Teodoro's blind sister, Doña Catalina Verdugo, who lived out her life on the estate and became one of early California’s most iconic matriarchs. Built with classical California Adobe architecture, the home features thick, whitewashed mud-brick walls, low-pitched tile roofing, heavy timber framing, and a shaded outdoor porch designed for life on the early Californio ranchos.
The site gained immense national historical prominence in January 1847 during the Mexican-American War. According to local lore, key negotiations leading up to the Treaty of Cahuenga took place beneath an enormous oak tree on the property, known today as the "Oak of Peace" (Roble de la Paz). Jesus Pico, an officer released on parole by Lieutenant Colonel John C. Frémont, met with Don Andres Pico and Brother Tomas Sanchez under the tree to discuss surrender terms, ultimately ending hostilities in California and paving the way for the signing of the peace treaty two days later.
As Glendale grew into a modern suburb throughout the 20th century, the historic homestead parcel was preserved as a protected pocket of wilderness and heritage. Acquired by the City of Glendale in 1989, the 1.3-acre site was dedicated as a public historical park. Recognized as California Historical Landmark No. 637 and listed on the National Register of Historic Places, the Catalina Verdugo Adobe remains an invaluable physical connection to California's Spanish and Mexican eras.
1828 — Construction
Teodoro Verdugo builds the adobe homestead on Rancho San Rafael for his blind sister, Doña Catalina Verdugo.
1847 — The Oak of Peace
Hostilities of the Mexican-American War in California effectively end during negotiations under the property's famous oak tree.
1989 — City Acquisition
The City of Glendale acquires the home and surrounding 1.3 acres, preserving it as a public park and historic site.
Present — Historic Heritage Park
Maintained as a peaceful historic park, serving as an educational landmark for California's Rancho period.
Things to Do at the Adobe
Nestled in the quiet residential hills of the Verdugo Woodlands, visiting the Catalina Verdugo Adobe offers a tranquil historical escape and unique outdoor features:
- Visit the "Oak of Peace" Site: Stand near the historic site where peace talks were conducted in 1847, marking one of the pivotal moments in California's territorial transition.
- Explore the Adobe Architecture: Walk around the exterior of Glendale's oldest building to admire original mud-brick construction, timber beams, and historic tile work.
- Stroll the Woodland Grounds: Walk along peaceful dirt pathways lined with native California flora, mature oak trees, citrus plantings, and historical markers.
- Enjoy a Peaceful Outdoor Picnic: Take advantage of shaded benches and quiet grassy spaces situated in a serene canyon park setting.
- Combine with Verdugo Woodlands Exploring: Pair your visit with a neighborhood walking tour past historic stone canyon walls and nearby architectural homes in the upper Glendale foothills.
Tips Before You Visit
Keep these practical recommendations in mind when planning a trip to this secluded historic site in the foothills of Glendale:
- Park Access Hours: The outdoor park grounds are open daily from dawn to dusk, making it ideal for morning walks or late afternoon visits.
- Check Building Opening Schedules: Interior access to the adobe building is restricted to special historical events, open houses, or pre-arranged municipal tours.
- Street Parking Available: Ample free street parking is available along Bonita Drive in a quiet residential neighborhood setting.
- Respect the Historic Grounds: Help preserve Glendale's oldest landmark by remaining on paved or dirt pathways and protecting the native trees and historic structures.
Frequently Asked Questions
Planning your first visit to Glendale's founding historic homestead? Find quick answers to common visitor questions below.
Where is the Catalina Verdugo Adobe located?
The landmark is situated in the Verdugo Woodlands neighborhood at 2211 Bonita Drive, Glendale, CA 91208.
Is admission to the park free?
Yes. Access to the historic grounds, paths, and monument markers is completely free to the public year-round.
Is the site wheelchair accessible?
The park features outdoor dirt and gravel paths; while mostly flat around the primary structure, terrain can be slightly uneven across the natural woodland grounds.
Who manages the Catalina Verdugo Adobe?
The property is owned and maintained by the City of Glendale Community Services & Parks Department in partnership with local historical advocates.