Pio Pico Mansion

Project History

Pio de Jesus Pico (1801-1984) was one of California's most fascinating historical figures. Born at the San Gabriel Mission, he helped shape the City of Los Angeles, the State of California, and created a legacy as the last Governor of "Mexican" California. After California became a State of the Union in 1849, Pio Pico adapted to new political circumstances and prospered as a rancher, businessman, and landowner. Pio Pico later built the Adobe Mansion at "El Ranchito" on his 8,891-acre ranch which he owned until 1892. It is located in the City of Whittier.

The four-acre Pio Pico State Historic Park is dedicated to preserving the adobe home and cultural history of Pio Pico. Since 2001, more than $5 million has been spent on an extensive restoration of the Park. The Adobe home of Pio Pico, which was damaged by earthquakes, has been restored to its 1880s splendor. Park landscaping closely resembles the original character of the Pico ranch, with an effort to re-create fruit orchards and colorful gardens.

Courtesy Friends of Pio Pico, Inc.

  • Location Whittier, CA
  • Year Built c. 1850
  • Listing Reg. No. 127, California Historical Landmarks, Reg. No. 73000408, National Register of Historic Places
  • Owner State of California
  • Year Completed 2001

Scope of Work

Adobe Seismic Repair and Stabilization, Interior and Exterior Historic Restoration and Reconstruction of Previously-demolished Portions of the Building