Centinela Adobe

Beautiful little place. It's only open on Sundays from 2:00 p.m. until 4:00 p.m. the tour guide was very nice.

While exploring the LAX area, I found reference to the Centinela Adobe as a landmark to visit. The docent Diane was “perfect” as she addressed my general questions but also the Architecture Student who was on the tour. The history was particularly interesting to me as Canadian Daniel Freeman (1837-1918) owned the property, was the founder of Inglewood, and the first President of the LA Chamber of Commerce. Wonderful to hear how a Canadian played such a pivotal role. A few days later when lunching with friends one chatted about the Huntington Library - having just learned about the connection with Henry Huntington we had a lovely conversation about both historical sights. Looking forward to exploring more “yesteryear” with the Huntington library next.

I stopped by the Centinela Adobe on a quiet Sunday afternoon and was immediately charmed by its serene Spanish-Colonial charm amidst modern Inglewood. The docents are so passionate—they walked me through period-appropriate furniture and shared stories about the area’s ranching past. It felt like stepping back in time, with the freeway just visible in the distance. I didn’t expect such a peaceful little time warp right by a busy city. Highly recommend for history buffs and curious locals alike

I toured the adobe on a Sunday afternoon and felt like I stepped into 19th-century California. The docent shared stories that made the old artifacts feel alive. The small research center next door added historical depth. Quiet, intimate, and totally different from the busy city outside. A lovely surprise

The Centinela Adobe, also known as the La Casa de la Centinela or The Centinela Adobe, is a historic structure located in the Westchester neighborhood of Los Angeles, California. It is one of the oldest surviving residences in the area and holds significant historical importance. Key Details: • Construction: The Centinela Adobe was built in 1834 by Ygnacio Machado, a soldier in the Spanish army who later became a prominent figure in the area. The adobe served as the headquarters for Rancho Aguaje de la Centinela, a vast land grant that encompassed much of what is now Inglewood, Westchester, and Playa Vista. • Architecture: The building is a classic example of early California adobe architecture, characterized by thick walls made from sun-dried mud bricks. The structure is a single-story building with a long, low profile, a traditional red-tile roof, and a veranda that stretches along its front. • Historical Significance: The Centinela Adobe is a vital link to Southern California’s Spanish and Mexican heritage. It represents the era of ranchos, large land grants given by the Spanish and later Mexican governments. The adobe was part of Rancho Aguaje de la Centinela, which played a crucial role in the region’s agricultural development during the 19th century. • Current Use: The Centinela Adobe has been preserved and is now operated as a museum by the Historical Society of Centinela Valley. It serves as a site where visitors can learn about the early history of Los Angeles and the lifestyle of those who lived on the ranchos. • Visiting Information: The museum offers tours and hosts events that celebrate the area’s history. It is a popular site for those interested in California’s early history and the development of the Los Angeles region. The Centinela Adobe is a testament to the rich cultural and historical tapestry of California, offering a glimpse into the early days of the state’s development.

Open Sunday 2-4pm free. I would encourage to donate and don't forget to fill out the guest list

A gem of California and history. I didn't have any clue what I would experience visiting, and was amazed by all the history in this little plot of land. Diane was incredibly knowledgeable, kind and gave us a thorough tour. All kinds of artefacts and really gives you a sense of place. Definitely visit if you are in the area!

Amazing historic location filled with awesome treasures from the development of the Southbay and Inglewood. The grounds are lovely and the volunteers obviously take great care to preserve the rich information stored here. My favorite were the kitchen and the library! I recommend anyone who has 2 hours to spare on a Sunday afternoon to take a tour and learn something new!

Did the free guided tour, which is currently available on Sundays only--starting at 2pm and going until 4pm. Call their recording to double check their schedule before you come down. A very personable and knowledgeable docent led us through the house and told us some history of the home, the area, and multiple artifacts inside the house. So glad I did this.

Since I live super close, I am the DUKE! ahhahahahahaha.... Nice to see something very historic by me. The first home in Westchester/Inglewood/Playa Del Rey. It's pretty cool actually, nice people run shop over here and give a historic lesson when you're the visitor. It's nice to walk around and just chill. You can also vote here during voting time which is highly convenient! Love where you live and live where you love! HOLLA!

I was amazed to find such a historical treasure in this little neighborhood. Though one can easily see the signs from the freeway, the place itself can be tough to find. The docents are fun and incredibly knowledgeable about the area; some of the docents are even in their 90s and remember much of the area as it used to be! Ask to see the photo and costume collections. Those little secret rooms are chock full of fantastic treasures. The photos are not at all organized, and I hope people volunteer soon to do so, and to digitize them, because the images are stunning. One in particular shows La Brea Ave in the 1920s... it's essentially a dirt road with one Model T and one wagon with horses parked along the side. Incredible. We were also able to look through some of the "Inglewood Yearbooks" from the 20s and 30s; fascinating stuff including real newspaper clippings from those times- and not behind glass! This place is truly a gem and I'm looking forward to volunteering with the Inglewood Historical Society for activities such as printing the letterpress collection they've got. Also check out the events they schedule a few times per year!

Great history lesson inspirational house is located in Westchester with an Inglewood address

What a wonderful hidden gem as part of the neighborhood. The house was built in 1834 and still standing today. So much history and what a wonderful guide. I brought the kids and they love it. Great for all ages to learn about the birthplace of the South Bay. Free, but only open 2-4pm on Sundays. Couldn't believe I never been all these years growing up in the area. A must visit.

This historical landmark deserves more 5 star ratings! Not many old places like this in the Inglewood/Westchester area so this is a true beauty/gem! I would be honored to take a tour one day!

Have you ever stumbled upon a true gem that few people know about? That is my opinion of this hidden treasure. I've seen it several times while walking my dog and decided one day to check it out. What a treat! We were greeted by the tour guide Diane, who is absolutely charming and welcoming and had a delightful tour of the house and learned so much! It was pouring rain the day we went and Diane even went to the trouble to put a platform out and sweep up excess water on the porch so we wouldn't get wet. Where do you get customer service like that? The adobe and grounds are beautiful. This is a must see. I hope it stands forever. Looking forward to going back and checking out the grounds when it is not raining. Thank you for a wonderful day.

hard to believe such an old establishment still exists in the middle of a suburban street. so random and low-key but most importantly, peaceful! it's all gated and surrounded by huge old eucalyptus trees. open on sundays only. very humbling experience.