A unique opportunity to own an iconic landmark, a piece of early history, with the potential for a multitude of uses! Centrally located within the commercial district in Santa Ysabel, a rural ranching community, sits the Historically Designated Santa Ysabel General Store and Hoover Barn, a focal point, and the gateway to the historic town of Julian and the greater San Diego County Backcountry. Comprised of two legal parcels totaling 1.79 +/- acres, the General Store is situated on 0.41+/- acres zoned C40 – Rural Commercial at the Santa Ysabel intersection of California State Route 78 and 79. Just to the South sits the Hoover Barn on a 1.38+/- acre parcel zoned A-72 – Village Residential.
Built using locally sourced Adobe and imported Wood-Frame construction, the circa 1889 General Store boasts 2,500 esf and embodies a rare architectural and historical significance. The property has a nostalgic presence and has been a long-standing contributor to local history admired by many passing through the picturesque Santa Ysabel Valley.
Meticulously restored by its current owner, Save Our Heritage Organisation, the renovations have preserved the historic integrity and charm of this cornerstone building, including restoration of windows, doors, facades, cornices, balusters, flooring, trim and a complete repainting of the quintessential signage on the buildings false-front.
Two large retail spaces sit atop a fieldstone foundation, encapsulated by plastered Adobe brick walls, and finished with tongue and groove clapboards, all under a hip-shaped roof. A root cellar, built-in mercantile scale, custom shelving, traditional wood stove, kitchenette, bathroom with shower, enclosed yard, and sweeping covered porch all highlight the features of this historic masterpiece. A narrow gravel parking area sits along the eastern Washington Street façade, near the restored loading dock. The remainder of the property, approximately 0.33 acres, remains open land with a variety of trees such as big sagebrush, Mountain Mahogany and California Live Oak, as well as a mature native plant garden and habitat home to Manzanita, California Barberry, Blue Elderberry and Lemonade-berry.
The circa 1895 Dutch style Hoover Barn is a 55’x60’ rectangular layout with H-Frame timber, sliding wood barn doors, and interior central hall plan with hayloft beneath the apex of the front gable and pulley attachment. The original Redwood and Douglas Fir structure continues standing the test of time, while some retrofit improvements ensure this historic building will remain for decades to come. This site holds the honor of being one of the largest remaining 19th century barns in San Diego County. Features include an asphalt concrete drive and parking lot surrounded by approximately one acre of open land with volunteer trees and vegetation.
Once a primary commercial and cultural hub of this early agricultural community in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, this iconic and easily recognizable historical landmark for the region, is a prime opportunity for property investment, or an owner-operator for a variety of uses. Close to the amenities of Julian, Wynola, and Santa Ysabel which include groceries, recreation, dining, beer and wine tasting rooms, and entertainment. Many family-friendly activities and events are offered year-round. The community is robust with artisans and craftsman, eco-farmers and ranchers, and entrepreneurs. The area offers easy access to endless outdoor activities and adventures, hiking, horse trail riding, mountain biking, and exploring. The Interstate freeway system and the amenities of metropolitan San Diego are a scenic one-hour drive, while Orange County and Los Angeles are within a 2-hour drive.
Don’t miss this unique and rare opportunity to become the next steward of this awe-inspiring and prominent historical backcountry property!
