Old Whaling Station Adobe

History

The Old Whaling Station was built by Scottish adventurer, David Wight, as a home for his wife and daughter. The Wights lived in the home for a short time before leaving to explore the California gold fields. In 1855, the Old Whaling Station Company began using the adobe for onshore whaling operations, hence the unusual name. Local legend has it that whalers kept their look-out from the upstairs windows which had unobstructed panoramic views of the bay. Since 1980, the Old Whaling Station has been leased by the Junior League of Monterey County from the California State Department of Parks and Recreation. The Old Whaling Station is adjacent to the First Brick House of California; both buildings are nationally registered historic landmarks. The Old Whaling Station is open to visitors Tuesday through Friday, 10:00am to 2:00pm. There is a free self-guided tour. For information about weddings or events, contact Amanda Trujillo at admin@jlmontereycounty.org.