Here is a nice sketch of the building in its original state by Carole Rast
The Scheller House, built in 1904, was designed by Theodore Lenzen for Louis Martin and served as the residence of Martin and his brother in-law Victor Scheller. Scheller was an early district attorney in Santa Clara County, a president of the Santa Clara County Bar Association, and co-founded the San Jose Chamber of Commerce.
The house is located on the campus of San Jose State University, itself is a historic landmark -- the first Normal School in California. The building had sat unused since 1991, when the University first proposed demolishing it to build a new science building. Community efforts led to reconsideration of demolition, but after several years of trying to relocate the building, the University again proposed demolition. PAC*SJ sued the University for not following the proper environmental review process and won.
In August 2000 the building was moved slightly to face the San Carlos pedestrian corridor. It was moved 80 feet west and rotated 90 degrees to face north .
Prior to the move
The foundation was made of brick and had to be demolished prior to moving the building
During the Move
It was supported on three sets of wheels and was tilted dramatically during the moving process.
The building had to be rotated. First it was pulled forward, then the rear was pulled around from the side.
The trenches for the new foundation are visible at the lower right. These trenches had to be covered so the dollies could roll over them.
Final Location
The Associated Students now use it for their new offices. It was rehabilitated during the Fall of 2000.
Last Modified 9/2000
