Fernwood was the beautiful country estate of Col. Jack C. Hays and his wife Susan in 1852.
After Hays died in 1883, the estate was sold to William J. Dingee. Dingee built an opulent 19-room Queen-Anne-style mansion and had additional landscaping with gardens, terraces, and waterfalls. He also added such features as a deer park and an elk paddock.
Sadly, the home and countless artworks were destroyed in a fire in 1899. Oakland Tribune Oct 19, 1899
In 1915 Dr. and Mrs. Nelson M. Percy of Chicago, Illinois, purchased the former W.J. DIngee home “Fernwood” for an undisclosed amount.
More of Fernwood –
- Historic Dingee Estate to be a Home Again – Oakland Tribune Oct 10, 1915
- Fernwood Estate has New Owner – Oakland Tribune Oct 10, 1915
- Old Estate Cut into Lots – Oakland Tribune Aug 18, 1923
I grew up on Fernwood Drive, Next door to the large brick property on the corner, once owned by a Miss. Steel. Lovely neighborhood.
Yes, it is a lovely neighborhood. Are you talking about the house at 1600 Fernwood? If so, that is where this cabin was located. I grew up on Capricorn Ave