Welcome to the Jonathan Bailey House, a cornerstone of Whittier’s history and a testament to the enduring spirit of the Quaker community. Originally constructed in 1868-1869 by Jacob Gerkens, this house is the oldest surviving building in Whittier, California. Gerkens, a German immigrant and former Los Angeles Police Chief, built the house after acquiring the land under the Homestead Act. However, it wasn’t until 1887 when Jonathan and Rebecca Bailey, prominent Quaker settlers from Ohio, moved in that the house truly became a focal point of the community.
Jonathan Bailey, born in Virginia in 1819, was a man of many trades—a mill owner, farmer, and a devoted Quaker. Alongside his wife Rebecca, he played a pivotal role in establishing Whittier as a Quaker colony. The Baileys hosted the first Quaker meetings on their front porch, creating a space for worship and community gathering. This porch was not just a physical structure but a symbol of the burgeoning spirit of fellowship and community that defined early Whittier.
As time passed, the house evolved from a private residence to a public museum, preserving the stories and artifacts of Whittier’s formative years. In 1975, the house was deeded to the city and is now maintained by the Whittier Historical Society and supported by dedicated volunteers. In 1977, it was added to the National Register of Historic Places, cementing its status as a landmark of historical significance.
The house stands as a reminder of the Quaker ethos of simplicity and community. While walking through its rooms, one can almost hear the echoes of early settlers discussing plans for the town that would soon flourish into a thriving community. The Jonathan Bailey House is not just a structure of wood and nails; it is a vessel of history, carrying the stories of those who lived, worked, and prayed here.
