Built in 1861 at 2645 Gough Street, the McElroy Octagon House is an eight-sided historic home in San Francisco’s Cow Hollow neighborhood. Its unusual design and collection of early American furnishings, decorative arts and documents make it a worthwhile stop for anyone interested in historic homes. Volunteer docents lead tours and can explain the stories behind individual objects. Look for the hand-drawn 17th-century map of the Americas, then take a quiet break in the small garden outside.
An eight-sided home from 1861
William C. McElroy built the house as a private residence in 1861. Its unusual plan was part of an architectural movement inspired by Orson Squire Fowler’s 1848 book, The Octagon House: A Home For All, or A New, Cheap, Convenient, and Superior Mode of Building. Fowler argued that octagonal homes could be economical while allowing spacious rooms.
The building is one of only two surviving octagonal houses in San Francisco, and the only one open to the public. Its blue-gray exterior has white accents at the corners. The house now stands across Gough Street from its original site.
The collection and its docents
Inside, the collection includes early American decorative arts, furnishings and documents, with a focus on the 18th century. Many of the furnishings were donated. Some documents have been loaned to other museums, so the objects on display can change.
Volunteer docents lead tours and share details about the pieces, including furniture, pictures and mementos. The hand-drawn map of the Americas from the 17th century is a notable item to look for. Outside, a small garden offers a place to pause after your visit.
Perguntas frequentes
When is the McElroy Octagon House open?
It is open on Sundays from 12 to 3 PM. Check availability before planning a visit, as opening times are limited.
Do I need to arrange a tour in advance?
Making an appointment is recommended to help ensure a volunteer docent is available.
What can you see inside the house?
The collection includes early American furnishings, decorative arts and documents, with a focus on the 18th century. Look for a hand-drawn map of the Americas from the 17th century.
Where is the McElroy Octagon House?
It is at 2645 Gough Street in San Francisco’s Cow Hollow neighborhood.
