Downtown San Jose in Santa Clara County, California — The American West (Pacific Coastal)
Thomas Fallon House
This house was built by Thomas Fallon in 1854. A handsome, charismatic figure, Fallon was one of the early San José’s most prominent citizens: he captained the volunteer company that seized San José from the Mexicans, served in the California Battalion of John C. Fremont and, in 1959, was elected mayor. His house, surrounded by an extensive pear orchard and magnificent gardens, was one of San José’s most impressive residences. The building was enlarged at the turn of the century and adapted for commercial use.
Erected by City of San Jose.
Topics. This historical marker is listed in this topic list: Notable Buildings. A significant historical year for this entry is 1854.
Location. 37° 20.207′ N, 121° 53.694′ W. Marker is in San Jose, California, in Santa Clara County. It is in Downtown San Jose. Marker is on West Saint John Street west of West San Pedro Street, on the left when traveling east. Marker and site are located across the street from the Luis Maria Peralta Adobe. Touch for map. Marker is in this post office area: San Jose CA 95113, United States of America. Touch for directions.
Other nearby markers. At least 8 other markers are within walking distance of this marker. The Juan Bautista de Anza Trail (within shouting distance of this marker); Luis María Peralta Adobe (within shouting distance of this marker); International Business Machines : RAMAC (about 400 feet away, measured in a direct line); Site of "City Gardens" Nursery of Louis Pellier (about 500 feet away); Birthplace of A.P. Giannini (about 500 feet away); The Palomar Ballroom (about 700 feet away); Farmers Union Building (about 800 feet away); College of Notre Dame (approx. 0.2 miles away). Touch for a list and map of all markers in San Jose.
Regarding Thomas Fallon House.
• 1846 - Following the War with Mexico and the Bear Flag Revolt, the American Flag was raised over San José. The flag disappeared the first night. Fallon raised it a second time and this time it remained. He sent a dispatch to Captain Montgomery: “I am hapy (sic) to inform you that we have (according to your wishes) hoisted the star spangled baner (sic) on the 14th instant, and we hope it may wave and dispense its blessing throughout this country.”
• 1854 - Elected to first term on the City Council
• Following political upheaval in San José and granting and rescinding city charters over the years, a final City Charter was approved. On March 16, 1859 the State Legislature passed another “Act to incorporate the City of San José.” Thirteen days later Thomas Fallon was elected Mayor.
Also see . . .
1. Thomas Fallon. Wikipedia entry (Submitted on May 14, 2010.)
2. Downtown San Jose History Walk. This building (Site #13), is featured on the Downtown San Jose History Walk along with 30 additional sites. (Submitted on May 14, 2010.)
Credits. This page was last revised on February 7, 2023. It was originally submitted on May 14, 2010, by Syd Whittle of Mesa, Arizona. This page has been viewed 1,512 times since then and 26 times this year. Photos: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6. submitted on May 14, 2010, by Syd Whittle of Mesa, Arizona.