Special Events

Periodically the Alliance has offered special events for members and guests. These gatherings are designed to be both educational and social. In 2010, one of the special activities was a motor coach day trip to Modesto to visit the McHenry Museum and the McHenry Mansion, both of which are landmark buildings that have been meticulously restored to offer visitors an informed glimpse into the rich cultural and agricultural history of Stanislaus County.

In 2011, members and guests enjoyed a private tour of the public as well as backstage areas of the historic Castro Theater, designed by renowned architect Timothy Pflueger. Participants enjoyed the privilege of being guided by the principal artist responsible for the restoration and presentation of both the architectural and decorative elements of this 1920s movie palace.

Annual Holiday Party

The Victorian Alliance's annual Holiday Party is a highlight of the Christmas season. The party is traditionally held at the Brune-Reutlinger Mansion, a beautifully restored Italianate Victorian located in San Francisco's Alamo Square Historic District. The house was designed in 1886 by local architect Heinrich Geilfuss for whiskey baron Henry Brune and has been beautifully restored by our gracious host Richard Reutlinger.

Restoration and preservation work is never done. What was restored twenty years ago once again needs loving care today. Historic treasures cannot protect themselves against decay or destruction--they need us and we celebrate them. We are the caretakers of things past and present--things that will outlive us--and we happily accept our duty so that we are able to pass the gifts of heritage to future generations.