This incredible house hasn’t been seen by the public in 100 years
A glimpse into one of California's most fascinating homes

Built for millionaire map-maker Andrew McNally in the 1880s, this Altadena mansion has remained a mystery to the public for a century. Having passed through numerous hands over the years, today it's on the market with Deasy Penner Podley for $2,900,000 (£2,199,664). Here we reveal some incredible photos of this luxurious California estate.
The beginnings of the McNally Estate

Born in Ireland to Scottish parents, Andrew McNally moved to the US in 1857 when he was 19, hoping to make his fortune. And unlike many of his fellow Irish immigrants, he did just that. First settling in Chicago, he co-founded cartography publisher Rand McNally & Co with William Rand and the pair became millionaires. In his 40s, McNally visited California for the first time and fell in love with its climate and terrain. He was determined to build himself a home here and become a 'gentleman farmer'.
The beginnings of the McNally Estate

An impressive location

The temptation of California

The McNally Estate's fate

Much of the grounds were eventually sold off, but happily the house was cared for. Over the years it has had several proprietors, but it owes its current excellent condition to the Dupuy family, who maintained the house for more than 50 years. They kept the original features in good condition and ensured any restoration work was true to the original designs. Inspired? Check out these unusual celebrity properties.
The grand McNally Estate today

McNally Estate originals

Stepping inside the McNally Estate

The foyer

A cleverly positioned fireplace

The Turkish Room

The Turkish Room

The parlour

The parlour

Sadly, the plaster in the parlour had been damaged by water and earthquakes over the years. But the new owners fixed the plaster and then repainted it with a design as close to the original as possible. A coved ceiling increases the feeling of space in the room, while generous floor-to-ceiling windows allow easy access to the porch for stunning views of the valley. Want more homes with a view? Discover these spectacular properties with mountain vistas.
The green room

The dining room

The study

The master bedroom

The master bedroom

Twin bedroom

The twin room, with its teal carpet, sumptuous peach drapes and wooden beds, emulates the period style throughout the rest of the house. Again, the fireplace is the room's standout feature, decorated in red-brown tiles that contrast with the paisley wall paper. Love historic homes? We reveal America's most endangered historic houses.
Master bathroom

A wraparound porch

A wraparound porch

The turret room

Original butler's pantry

McNally Estate grounds over the years

Over the last century, much of the original grounds and gardens have been lost in private sales, including the once-spectacular aviary. But some of the original boundary is still visible on a walk around the area, and it's possible to discern where carriages would have arrived at the original gates. We can only imagine the grand impression visitors would have had upon arriving at this turreted masterpiece. Ready for more? Discover these 'historic homes' that aren't quite what they seem.
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