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It has been established that 14 million motorists drive by the Redman House each year on Highway 1 on their way to or from the San Francisco or Monterey Bay Areas. The old house, even in its neglected condition, acts as a beacon to passersby. Halfway between the redwoods and beach attractions of northern Santa Cruz County and the waterfront and historic sites of Monterey and situated in the very midst of the farmlands and wetlands of the Pajaro Valley, the house is a hub for the entire Monterey Bay Region. It is the plan of The Redman-Hirahara Foundation, in cooperation and collaboration with government entities, interested foundations and individual sponsors, to create a wine tasting/visitor center. The plan ensures that the surrounding farm land would be kept in production and utilized as a gateway for ag/eco-tourism in the Pajaro Valley and a research and demonstration farm. The Redman House restoration project would endeavor to authentically recreate an 1890s farmstead. The immediate area around the house would be landscaped in a manner reminiscent of classic Victorian gardens of the time. Both areas would be readily accessible to visitors and have interpretive information and activities, as well as be designed to permit special farm/garden related events. The Redman House would invite visitors from near and far to truly step back in time and discover the vibrant history of the Pajaro Valley, celebrating, displaying and promoting the region's rich cultural diversity all while introducing guests to local scenic and shopping attractions. In addition to wine tasting, the rooms in the 4000 square foot Redman House, while decorated with period furnishings, would be dedicated to specific visitor interests. One room might be dedicated to distributing information on Monterey Bay Area attractions and accommodations. Another room might be utilized to interpret local history and a third could be available for the promotion of local products. The project will have a revenue generating element to guarantee that it will be self-supporting. It is hoped that the 5 million dollar price
(including the 1.9 million dollar price to purchase the house)
will be raised through local initiative and grants. The Redman
Foundation will maintain a presence through the nonprofit tasks
of maintaining the house and grounds, overseeing the farm and
operating the wine tasting and visitor center.
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