Laninga's Travel Blog

Ferndale, CA, sometimes referred to as “cream city,” is known for well-preserved Victorian store-fronts on main street and homes throughout the community.  The name is due to their construction during a time when considerable wealth was generated in the dairy industry, especially during the 1880s. The entire town is registered as a California Historical Landmark.

The city contains dozens of well-preserved Victorian store fronts and homes. It is the northern gateway to California’s Lost Coast and the city, which is sited on the edge of a wide plain near the mouth of the Eel River,  is also located near the extensive preserves of Coast Redwood forests.

It is quite a photographers place to wander and take pictures, if I were to visit again I would come at a time of day when the sun was a bit more favorable.  The buildings are quite spectacular, but really need better light to show up best in photographs.

One of the first buildings you see as you enter the city

On Main street

Gingerbread decorating style.  And yes, it is an operating drug store!

Is this a false front or what?

Unusual windows

Very elaborate storefront

Rather bright red

One of the more spectacular homes, now a B&B.

Wonder what it takes to keep it white?

Well-tended gardens to go with beautiful homes

The cemetery is odd, placed on a hillside with many crypts that are now sealed in concrete.