Building at 27-29 Fountain Alley
historic place
The building at 27-29 Fountain Alley in San Jose, California, is a historic commercial structure. It was built in 1889 by R. H. Quincy, with J.O. McKee serving as the architect. This three-story brick building is recognized for its late Victorian and Italianate architectural style. It stands as the only representative of this style in its immediate area. The building's facade includes distinctive two-story bay windows and decorative cornices. Inside, it features a tin ceiling with a deep cove cornice and a narrow staircase with turned balusters. Historically, its upper floors served as lodgings and boarding rooms. From 1905 to 1935, the J.L. Chargin restaurant occupied the ground floor. Over time, the ground floor also hosted various service-oriented businesses, such as a tavern, a liquor store, and a beauty shop. The building at 27-29 Fountain Alley was officially recognized for its significance when it was added to the National Register of Historic Places on March 2, 1982. Today, this historic property is part of a larger downtown revitalization effort, serving as the main entrance and lobby for new office and retail spaces. Its enduring presence contributes to the historical character of San Jose's Fountain Alley.