Welch-Hurst, Saratoga, California
historic place
Welch-Hurst is a historic place in Saratoga, Santa Clara County, California. Superior Court Judge James R. Welch established this 800-acre estate in 1902. The Welch-Hurst Ranch house, an early example of American Craftsman-style architecture, was built in 1908 as a vacation residence. This redwood log house served as a gentleman's working ranch and family retreat for Judge Welch. Its design used indigenous materials and integrated with the natural site. Welch-Hurst was added to the National Register of Historic Places on September 18, 1978. The property remained with the Welch family until 1955. Santa Clara County acquired it in 1977. For thirty years, it operated as a hostel, closing in 2010. Welch-Hurst is historically important for its architectural style and its association with Judge James R. Welch.