bedrooms
bedrooms
2
bathrooms
bathrooms
1
square feet
square feet
853
acreage
Acreage
-
open houses
Open Houses
-
year built
year built
1905
full baths
Full Baths
1
half baths
Half Baths
0
Tucked among the redwoods and set back from the road, this remodeled mountain retreat offers privacy, charm, and a remarkable story. Originally built in 1905 by early Brookdale resident Virginia Garland Ballen, a naturalist, writer and contributor to the movement that helped preserve Big Basin Redwoods, this home was known as 'The Call of the Wild' where Virginia hosted gatherings of writers, artists and early conservationists inspired by the Santa Cruz Mountains. Today the home blends that historic character with modern comfort. Vaulted ceilings, skylights, wood floors and a stone hearth create a warm and inviting living space while the updated kitchen features stone countertops and modern appliances. Outdoor living is central to the property with multiple seating areas, a large entertaining deck, a hot tub beneath the redwoods and a detached studio ideal for an office, art space, or guest overflow. The fully fenced property offers parking for multiple vehicles and a seasonal babbling brook that adds to the peaceful setting. This move-in ready home offers a rare blend of history and comfort just a short drive to Boulder Creek, Santa Cruz, the beaches, and hiking in Big Basin and Henry Cowell. A unique opportunity to own a piece of history in a setting that continues to inspire.
Location
Subdivision -
County Santa Cruz
Elementary School -
Middle School -
High School -
open houses Open houses
None scheduled.
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MLS number: ML82041091
Listing status: Active
Listing agent: MaryBeth McLaughlin #01466579
Listing broker: Room Real Estate (831) 717-8465
Copyright © 2026 MLS Listings, Inc. All rights reserved. All information provided by the listing agent/broker is deemed reliable but is not guaranteed and should be independently verified.   [source]
Last update: Wednesday, April 1 2026 at 3:41 p.m. EDT
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