Mesa will hold its annual Historic Home Tour on Saturday, January 17, with proceeds supporting the Mesa Historical Museum. This year’s event will feature five homes in the Golden Hills neighborhood, known for its mid-century architecture adapted to the Arizona climate. The tour’s main attraction is the Ponderosa II, a replica of the Bonanza ranch house built in 1963 by actor Lorne Greene from the NBC television series. It is the first time this property has been open to public tours.
Homes in Golden Hills were mostly constructed during the 1950s and 1960s. They are characterized by low rooflines, open floor plans, large windows connecting indoor and outdoor spaces, and shaded patios suited for desert living.
Golden Hills is not a designated historic district; however, Mesa currently has eight local historic districts. Seven of these are listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Additional details about these districts can be found on the City’s website.
Timed entry tickets cost $30 and can be purchased online until 4 p.m. on January 16. Tickets remain available for tours at 1 p.m., 2 p.m., and 3 p.m. Attendees must check in at Jefferson Recreation Center at 120 S. Jefferson Ave., where shuttle service to Golden Hills will be provided since parking is not available in the neighborhood.
All funds raised from ticket sales will go directly to support the Mesa Historical Museum.
