Albany Flat
Romaggi Adobe
Although often referred to as the Romaggi Adobe, the structure is actually constructed of selected slabs of local schist, held together by adobe. The
building is huge, with two stories and a large basement. At one time an additional wooden structure was added which was at least as big as the main
portion of the ruin. This wooden part is no longer present.
James Romaggi arrived from Genoa in 1850 and settled in Albany Flat in 1851. He built this stone and adobe home for his wife Louisa and their five
children. It was located on a sloping hillside, and being a rancher at heart, he planted orchards and vineyards all about his surrounding land. James and
his family lived in the upper story of the stone building, and possibly in part of the wooden structure. Downstairs on the main floor of the stone building, the
Romaggis ran a small store where they sold bread, bacon, spices, flour, and fruit and vegetables in season. A portion of the room was used as a bar and
card room.
Today this fantastic building stands gaping
alongside of the
highway. At one time, the tarmac and its speeding
denizens came within
a foot of the structure itself, inviting disaster.
Thankfully, the
state has re-routed Hwy 49 away from the old ruin
which will
undoubtedly prolong its existence. Stopping to
look into this building
is a must; the five large rooms and huge basement,
the exposed rafters
and intricate construction provide a fascinating
look at classic Gold
Country architecture. Stone foundations of several
outlying buildings
are scattered about the adjoining fields,
testifying to the fact that
this was once a busy and important place during
the Gold Rush.
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