James C. Flood Mansion, San Francisco

James Clair Flood, one of the renowned 'Bonanza Kings,' achieved fame through two notable architectural marvels: Linden Towers in Menlo Park and James C. Flood Mansion in San Francisco. Although Linden Towers met its demise in 1936, the stately Flood Mansion continues to grace the landscape as the Pacific-Union Club.

Originating from New York, Flood ventured to California during the gold rush era in San Francisco. His entrepreneurial journey began with a humble saloon and eventually led to the establishment of a stockbroking firm. Within a mere two decades, the firm ascended to become the wealthiest in America. Recognizing new opportunities, Flood's enterprise ventured into mining operations within the renowned Comstock Lode, the largest silver mine in the world. Additionally, the firm played a pivotal role in establishing the Bank of Nevada.

In 1885, a few years prior to his passing, Flood constructed an impressive 42-room mansion. The construction utilized imported brownstone, transported via Cape Horn. The mansion found its place atop Nob Hill, the epitome of opulence during that era. Unfortunately, a devastating fire ravaged the structure in 1906, although it miraculously withstood the earthquake. Subsequently, in 1907, the Pacific-Union Club assumed ownership of the building and diligently maintained its grandeur while utilizing it as their operational headquarters. Throughout the years, the structure remains unaltered and was rightfully designated as a National Historic Landmark in 1966.