Address: 1000 California St, S.F.
Neighborhood: Nob Hill
Classification: Private Club
Floors: 3 + ?? Basement levels
Built: 1886
Owned by: Foundation
Ward Mansion, located in the historic Nob Hill neighborhood of San Francisco, is a historic fenced estate owned by The Foundation. Built in 1886, the mansion is shrouded in mystery and controversy. It serves as a private club and headquarters for Foundation, an organization reputed for its secretive nature, charitable front, and rumored occult ties.
History
Ward Mansion was constructed in 1886 by Mr. Nathaniel Ward, a wealthy industrialist and an ancestor of the current enigmatic leader of The Foundation, C.D. Ward. The mansion has served various purposes over the years, but it has always remained in the hands of the Ward family. In the early 20th century, it became the headquarters for The Foundation, an organization shrouded in mystery and rumored to engage in occult practices.
Design
Ward Mansion is a stunning example of Classical Revival architecture, featuring grand columns, symmetrical facades, and elaborate stone and brickwork. Designed by the renowned architect Willis Polk, the mansion is constructed primarily from imported granite from Salem, Massachusetts and Caribbean mahogany. Notable features include large, stained-glass windows depicting esoteric symbols and an expansive grand hall with a vaulted ceiling and a massive crystal chandelier. The mansion also boasts two hidden basement levels, which are said to house The Foundation’s extensive library of occult texts and artifacts.
Controversies
Ward Mansion has been the subject of numerous controversies over the years. It stands out in the Nob Hill neighborhood as the only structure that survived the Great Earthquake of 1906. Residents of Nob Hill have reported strange lights and sounds emanating from the basement windows late at night, fueling rumors of secretive rituals and experiments. The mansion’s association with The Foundation, known for its secretive membership and activities, has further heightened public suspicion.