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The Almond Grove District is one of the oldest residential neighborhoods in Los Gatos.
The subdivision was created in 1887 by town fathers John Bean, Alphonse Wilder, Augustine Nicholson, Fen Massol and Captain Magnus Tait. The borders were from Bean Avenue to Saratoga-Los Gatos Road and North Santa Cruz and Glen Ridge Avenue. (Streets in this district include Beat Ave., Wilder Ave., Nicholson Ave., Massol Ave. and Tait Ave.)
 What is really amazing about this neighborhood is the way it was originally sold, the incredibly enthusiastic response it had right from the very beginning. In September of that year, 1887, an orchardist named Harvey Wilcox had a land auction of the subdivision. He sold 121 out of 170 lots for sale - all in one day!!
(That same orchardist also sold the Jesuits 40 acres that would become the Novitiate up on the hill.)
The popularity of the Almond Grove District continues to this day, more than a century later.
 Today the area is known for being very, very highly decorated at Halloween and Christmas. In fact, on October 31st, many children are brought in from other areas to "Trick or Treat" in this historical area with tons of (spooky) ambiance on Halloween.
Almendra is a street whose name in Spanish means "almond" and this road was the home of many mayors and important personages in Los Gatos history. It also boasts a six-sided house (which was recently home to a law office and is currently a pending sale, listed just a bit under 1.5 mil) that was built in 1895.
What folks love about the Almond Grove is that it's "walk to town" (or "close to town"), it's full of old-style charm (in a valley full to the brim with tract housing), there are wide, tree-lined streets, and of course great Los Gatos schools. But even more, it seems that the Almond Grove district exudes an immense pride in keeping the flavor of the area alive. And there seems to be a lot of community spirit too. There's no other neighborhood like this one for holiday decorating.
 Are there challenges living in the Almond Grove area? Sure. Parking can be a problem - many of these homes were built before garages were a consideration! Older construction can impact remodeling (historical preservation rules) too.
Being able to stroll to world-class restaurants, enjoy fantastic shopping or stop in at a spa for the royal treatment just blocks away is a huge plus. Living in a neighborhood full of character and history, and getting neighbors who all care about taking care of their homes is a big plus too.
I'd live there in a heartbeat.
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Comments (3) :: Post A Comment! :: Permanent Link :: Email This Entry
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re: Historic Almond Grove District in Los Gatos
IT looks like a wonderful neighborhood, Mary. I'd love to stroll the streets.
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re: A Place for Strolling:<Br>Historic Almond Grove District in Los Gatos
Posted by: lynda eisenmann
Date: May. 27, 2007
Hi Mary,
What a wonderful area, so very charming. Next time I'm up your way I'll need to take the time to see this special area.
Lynda Eisenmann, and fellow rainer
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re: A Place for Strolling:<Br>Historic Almond Grove District in Los Gatos
Maureen and Lynda - thanks for the nice comments. Yes, it is indeed a very, very charming area! It is especially great to see in October (gussied up for Halloween) and in December for Christmas and all the holidays. One family has about a 20' reindeer (made of wood? I'm not sure) and covered in lights in the front yard. It is just amazing.
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