"The Lady on the Lake": Reopening Camron-Stanford House

The historic Camron-Stanford House has proudly stood along the edge of Lake Merritt for 150 years. You can discover so much history around the lake, including landmarks like the Mid-Century Monster and the colorful Children’s Fairyland sign. These reference points help Oakland natives and visitors connect, whether they’re meeting for a local club or catching up with friends while enjoying bites from a local food vendor. Oaklandish is honored to highlight the Camron-Stanford House with the release of this collab t-shirt, aiming to raise awareness about the organizations efforts to reopen the house after many. Proceeds from sales will support the nonprofit's ongoing reopening effort. 

Oakland's iconic Camron-Stanford House is the last remaining grand Victorian estate on Lake Merritt. Developed by Samuel Merritt in 1876, the house turns 150 years old in 2026. Once home to several prominent Oakland families, it became the city’s first museum in 1907, connecting generations with Oakland’s history. The house is a designated Oakland historic landmark and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

The museum closed in late 2024 when the City did not renew the Camron-Stanford House Preservation Association's longstanding lease agreement. The City and the Association later renewed lease negotiations and the house was set to reopen in April 2026 when a fire occurred in an external stairwell at midnight on April 4th. Thanks to the Oakland Fire Department’s immediate response, damage was contained. Repairs and restoration are now underway. 

Learn more: CSHOUSE.ORG

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