Ravenswood Estate

Ravenswood, was the "country seat" of Christopher Buckley, a behind-the- scenes politician in San Francisco in the late 1800's. In 1885, "Chris" Buckley bought 100 acres on Arroyo Road and by June of that year had a cottage, tank house and "rustic finished" carriage barn built on the site. Construction of the Main House began in 1887. Three rail cars of lumber were brought to Ravenswood in 1890 to build a winery and brandy distillery. By 1891 the Main House was completed. The Buckley familly entertained often and lavishly at Ravenswood. Ravenswood went from Buckley's ownership, to his son, then to the Redemptorist Fathers in 1931. They used the estate as a retreat, having dropped plans to have a seminary there. A developer bought the property in 1968 and turned over 33 acres to the city for a park. Janet Newton, then chair of the Livermore Heritage Guild, spearheaded the effort to save Ravenswood. In 1976, the Livermore Heritage Guild was involved in the decision to save the cottage, the tank house and the carriage barn. As a result, these buildings are still standing along with the Main House and are on the National Register of Historic Places. Many festive events are held at Ravenswood. The docent program was started in 1976 by the Livermore Area Recreation and Park District with the support of many, including the Livermore Heritage Guild. On the second Sunday of each month, it is possible to take a tour of the estate, guided by costumed docents.