Weinberger, J.C., Winery

a.k.a. William Cole Vineyards; Harrison Residence

2849 St. Helena Hwy., St. Helena, CA
Local significance of the building:
Industry; Architecture; Landscape Architecture

Listed in National Register of Historic Places in 2015.

The National Register of Historic Places is the official list of the Nation’s historic places worthy of preservation. Authorized by the National Historic Preservation Act of 1966, the National Park Service’s National Register of Historic Places is part of a national program to coordinate and support public and private efforts to identify, evaluate, and protect America’s historic and archeological resources.

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The California Gold Rush of 1849 brought a huge influx of people to the state. In just two years, the population of San Francisco grew from 1,000 to 25,000. However, only a small percentage of gold-seekers actually struck it rich, and many ended up in debt or poverty.
Napa County, located in the heart of California's renowned wine region, has a rich history that spans centuries. The area was originally inhabited by the indigenous Wappo people, who peacefully coexisted with nature and relied on the region's abundant resources for their livelihoods. However, in the early 19th century, European settlers began to arrive, marking a significant shift in the county's landscape.

In 1838, George C. Yount, a pioneer from Ohio, was the first to receive a land grant in what is now Napa County. Yount recognized the potential of the region's fertile soil and mild climate for viticulture, planting the county's first vineyards. Yountville, a small town named in recognition of his efforts, remains a charming center for wine tourism to this day.

Napa County experienced a boom in the mid-19th century when gold miners, known as "Forty-Niners," flocked to the area during the California Gold Rush. While some found success in mining, others turned to agriculture and established vineyards and wineries. However, the county faced significant challenges during this time, with fires, floods, and economic downturns threatening its growth.

It was not until the late 20th century that Napa County truly cemented its reputation as a world-class wine region. In the 1960s and 1970s, a new generation of winemakers, many of whom were immigrants from Europe, began producing high-quality wines that garnered international recognition. The famous "Judgment of Paris" wine tasting in 1976, where Napa Valley wines outshined French wines, further solidified the region's status. Since then, Napa County has become synonymous with fine wines and has attracted wine enthusiasts from around the globe.

Today, Napa County continues to thrive as a premier wine destination, boasting over 400 wineries and vineyards. It has also diversified its economy, attracting tourists with its picturesque landscapes, gourmet dining, and luxurious resorts. Despite the challenges faced over the years, Napa County's rich history and commitment to winemaking have allowed it to establish itself as a world-renowned wine region, capturing the hearts of wine lovers and leaving a lasting legacy.

This timeline provides a glimpse into the major events and milestones that have shaped the history of Napa County, California.

  • 1839: Napa County is established from parts of Solano County.
  • 1850: Napa becomes one of the 27 original counties of California.
  • 1860: The first commercial winery, Charles Krug Winery, is founded.
  • 1872: The Napa County Courthouse is built, becoming a local landmark.
  • 1883: The first railroad line in Napa County is completed.
  • 1908: The Napa State Hospital is established, providing mental health services.
  • 1936: The Golden Gate Bridge opens, connecting Napa County to San Francisco.
  • 1950s: The wine industry in Napa County starts to gain international recognition.
  • 1967: The Napa Valley Agricultural Preserve is established to protect agricultural land.
  • 1976: The Judgment of Paris wine competition boosts Napa Valley's reputation.
  • 1990s: The number of wineries in Napa County continues to grow rapidly.
  • 2014: The Napa earthquake, with a magnitude of 6.0, causes significant damage.