As sunlight filters through the intricately leaded windows, casting colorful patterns on the polished oak floors, the Bixby Ranch House stands as a testament to a history rich in both architectural beauty and cultural significance. Once the pride of Long Beach, this magnificent structure, with its eight bedrooms and seven bathrooms, is now back on the market for $5.7 million, following a comprehensive restoration that has revived its former glory.

The Bixby Ranch House: A Historical Gem in Long Beach

The Bixby Ranch House, built in 1890 for founding figure George H. Bixby, is a stunning example of Dutch Colonial Revival and American Shingle architecture. It stretches across an impressive 8,241 square feet of living space and has recently garnered attention from history enthusiasts and real estate investors alike, especially after selling for $2.5 million in late 2021. The current owners dedicated themselves to a major restoration, a process they describe as “a labor of love.”

A Restoration to Remember

According to the listing agent, Blake Nicolai, “Every window and door has been expertly restored. The exterior and roof were completely re-shingled to the original specifications.” Such meticulous attention to detail reflects both historical sensitivity and modern craftsmanship.

Experts have noted that historic restorations like these not only preserve architectural heritage but also promote community identity. Dr. Lydia Thompson, an architectural historian at the University of California, Los Angeles, commented, “Restoring a landmark such as the Bixby Ranch House revitalizes not only the building itself but also the surrounding community by preserving invaluable cultural heritage.”

• Architectural Details: The house boasts hand-laid cedar shingles, grand entrance halls, and oversized bay windows.
• Living Spaces: The billiard room features a quarter-sawn white oak ceiling and original liquor cabinets, making it a stunning gathering space.
• Outdoor Features: Twin reflecting pools and herringbone-patterned brick patios surround the residence, enhancing its aesthetic charm.

A Property Steeped in History

The Bixby lineage is woven into the very fabric of Long Beach. Originally part of a sprawling 10-acre estate, the property has seen numerous transformations over the years. Following George Bixby’s death in 1920, it became a canvas for successive owners, including oil tycoon Thomas Gilcrease, who poured resources into beautification and subdivided the estate for luxury residences.

Long Beach’s Historic Landmarks website notes, “The property remained in the Bixby family until the late 20th century, showcasing both familial legacy and architectural significance.” This legacy has been meticulously upheld through recent restorations, which echo the grandeur of the original designs by the famed architectural firm, Coxhead and Coxhead.

Modern Features Meet Historical Charm

The renovation incorporated modern updates, including a fresh kitchen and three-car garage, designed to harmonize with the home’s historic allure. Additionally, historic elements such as the original white oak dining table in the dining room remain, keeping the spirit of the estate alive.

“This restoration is a shining example of how modern functionality can blend seamlessly with historical preservation,” Nicolai explained. “It demonstrates a commitment to keeping history alive while providing comfortable, contemporary living.”

The Gardens: A Restored Oasis

The garden is a highlight of the property, featuring a restored pergola covered by a wisteria vine that dates back to early photographs of the estate. “Preserving the wisteria was crucial,” Nicolai emphasized. “It symbolizes the historical essence of this property.”

This commitment to restoration extends to the twin reflecting pools, which were originally removed when the estate was subdivided. Historic photographs guided their reinstatement, showcasing a dedication to authenticity. Renovations on the pools have returned them to their deserved prominence in the property’s formal courtyard garden.

Community Impact and Public Interest

The broader implications of restoring a landmark like the Bixby Ranch House extend beyond aesthetics. Dr. Martin Jameson, a sociologist focused on urban development, asserts that “the revival of historical properties can stimulate local economies, attract tourism, and foster community pride.” His studies reveal that cities with preserved landmarks often enjoy increased property values and higher levels of civic engagement.

In the face of rapid urbanization, the Bixby Ranch House offers a refuge not just for its owners but also for the community at large. The potential sale of this historic landmark could set a precedent for similar restoration efforts throughout Long Beach and beyond.

As of now, the Bixby Ranch House, with its layered history and architectural magnificence, beckons new owners who appreciate not just its physical structure but its story—a story of resilience, family, and cultural legacy that resonates with both local residents and historians alike.

As the sun sets behind the horizon, casting a golden glow over the meticulously restored garden, the Bixby Ranch House stands tall—an enduring symbol of Long Beach’s rich tapestry of history.