The Endangered 8:
San José's Most Threatened Architectural and Cultural Landmarks of 2022
Graves House
Location:
4146 Mitzi Drive
Date:
Built 1868
Architect:
N/A
Threat:
Neglect
This rare surviving Italianate farmhouse in West San José was built in 1868 by Sylvester and Kate Graves at the center of what was once a sprawling prune, apricot, and peach orchard. Today, a stalled 40-unit apartment proposal on the surrounding parcel has left the building prone to chronic trespassing, vandalism, arson, and accelerated deterioration. Without immediate intervention and a viable security plan, the building may soon deteriorate beyond repair—a tragic and avoidable fate for a once-grand and still-salvageable homestead.
UPDATE: NOVEMBER 2022
Sadly, our worst fears were realized on the evening of November 29 when the Graves House was lost to a catastrophic fire of unknown origin. PAC*SJ volunteers had worked diligently over the last year to keep the home safe by cleaning brush, weeds and trash, securing openings, and repairing fences. We met repeatedly with the property owners, City staff, and elected officials in an attempt to better secure the property from vandalism and trespassers while the owners sought approvals and funding for a planned townhome development on the surrounding parcel. We are now assessing the feasibility of stabilizing or salvaging any surviving historic fabric for possible reconstruction.
MEDIA COVERAGE
Learn More and Take Action!
If you see something, say something! Report suspected code violations or suspicious activities to the City of San Jose.