On a quiet street in historic Pomona, can you picture a place where neighbors still wave as they pass, and children play under the shade of century-old trees? Today, Tim and I had the honor of meeting the stewards of a home that has stood the test of time. It’s not just any home; it’s a living, breathing piece of history, filled with memories and stories that span over 50 years.
As Tim took photos, I had the privilege of talking with Bill, who shared some of the stories and history of his home...
Bill and Connie first laid eyes on this charming house while visiting family just across the street. It was by chance—a simple walk to check out an Open House sign. Little did they know that this moment would lead to a lifetime of memories. Though the home was beyond their budget, fate intervened. Encouraged by the real estate agent, they made an offer, never expecting it to be accepted. When it was, they were thrilled and somewhat stunned, prompting a second, more thorough visit to truly grasp what had just become theirs.
This house, likely built before 1900, welcomed them with its grand front porch—a place where stories were shared, laughter echoed, and life unfolded. When Bill decided to have the glass on the front door etched, he sought out a skilled engraver. As the engraver began his work, he noticed the intricate patterns already present in the glass. He informed Bill that this glass was no ordinary piece—it was likely over 100 years old, a rare find that spoke to the craftsmanship of a bygone era.
I can easily imagine Connie standing by the large front window, her eyes following the neighborhood children as they played outside. The window, a centerpiece of the formal living room, offers an ideal view of the wide street lined with mature trees.
Over the years, Bill added his personal touches, one of which was expanding the kitchen to accommodate his family's needs and the numerous neighborhood gatherings. He spoke of the original Pomona tiles, laid by a master craftsman, that still adorn the kitchen. I imagined Connie sitting at the built-in secretary desk, writing recipes and sending cards to friends—a small but meaningful hub of daily life.
The game room, with its poker table, and the adjoining family room’s welcoming bar, have seen countless gatherings of friends, neighbors, and family. It’s a home where joy has been a constant guest. As we walked through the house, the hardwood floors beneath us told their own stories, creaking under the weight of countless footsteps, while the wallpaper—too much of it, Bill admits—added a unique charm that only a home of this age can possess.
Throughout the home, Bill and Connie have placed several historical photos that made me stop and pause to reflect on the days gone by. These images, capturing moments from a simpler time, invite you to imagine what life was like before all the modernization around us today. As I stood there, I found myself immersed in the past, picturing the daily rhythms of a world where neighbors were closer, time seemed to move a bit slower, and the connections between people and their surroundings were more deeply felt.
In the basement, a wine cellar with exposed rock and brick walls holds the remnants of trips that Bill and Connie made to various wineries with friends. Connected to this is an original bomb shelter, a relic of another time, which served as a secret playroom for the grandkids.
Bill shared how he would photograph his family on the stairs each year, capturing their growth, their smiles, and the passage of time. Now, those photos will be keepsakes, a visual diary of the years gone by.
Upstairs, Connie’s sewing and craft room is a testament to the countless presents wrapped and memories created. The hallway, lined with full-wall storage, has held the essentials of life, from holiday decorations to Connie’s glassware collection, to linens for the family.
The master suite is more than just a bedroom with an en suite bath—it has closets lined in cedar pine (to keep Connie's clothes safe from pesky moths) and two adjoining rooms—one for Bill’s office and another where he could get ready for his day without disturbing Connie. I can visualize this room now serving as a sitting area where you can enjoy a cup of coffee, as it opens onto a large balcony overlooking the pool and backyard.
The four-car garage, accessible from the alley (you don’t see many of those anymore), is a nod to practicality, with pull-up doors on each end. Bill told me how convenient it was to be able to pull his cars and boats through with ease. Above the garage is now a two-bedroom apartment. Originally built for Bill’s office, it was later renovated into a residence and has always been home to various family members, providing space and comfort when needed most.
As we sat together, Bill spoke of his wife, Connie, who now battles Parkinson’s and dementia. His love for her was palpable in every word, every memory he shared. Unfortunately, the house is just too big for him now. His dream is that it finds another family full of love and laughter to give it a new life.
This house is more than just bricks and mortar. It’s a sanctuary where Bill and Connie built their life, raised their family, and created memories that will last long after they are gone. It’s a place where the past meets the present, and where the echoes of laughter, love, and life linger in every room.
As I left, I couldn’t help but feel honored to have heard a small part of their story, to have glimpsed into a life so rich with history and love. Homes like this one are rare, and I am so honored to have heard some of Bill's special stories and memories.
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