About the Inn at Schoolhouse Creek
Our Story and History
The Inn at Schoolhouse Creek was the first resort on the Mendocino stretch of California’s North Coast.
Below is a little history.
1800s
Charles Perkins built the historic farmhouse in 1862, which is now our main office and lounge space. In 1888 he built a second home on the land and after adding the gorgeous coffered, old-growth redwood ceilings, he gifted the farmhouse to his daughter for her wedding. During this time, the first Little River Schoolhouse was also built, giving the inn its name. The property remained a private residence for the next 40 years.
1930s
In 1933 the Inn at Schoolhouse Creek opened its doors with the completion of the “Shoreline Highway”, now Highway 1. Prior to opening, the owners moved turn-of-the-century mill workers' homes from Camp Mendocino onto the property. These historic and beautifully antique units are now Rose, Heather, Fuchsia, and Cypress Cottages. The Garden-edge cottages Thyme and Tansy were built at this time, in classic 1930s motor court style.
WWI
During World War II, the property was turned over to the US Coast Guard, and they added three more cottages. Pomo Cottage was used as the mess hall, Ledford Cottage was the officers’ quarters and the Water Tower Cottage was used as an armory, while the tower held an anti-aircraft battery.
1950's: "The Lazy Eye Motel"
In the late 1950’s, the inn underwent another change when the motel craze swept America. While briefly named the “Lazy Eye Motel,” Point Cabrillo, Van Damme, Buckhorn Cove and Anderson Valley were built to cater to guests looking for a quick night stay while driving through town. Gene Clark of the Byrds visited the Lazy Eye often, enjoying the drive up the Pacific Coast Highway in his 1964 Porsche.
(Image references: Mr. Tambourine Man: The Life and Legacy of the Byrds’ Gene Clark by John Einarson & Early Mendocino Coast by Katy M. Tahja - Kelly House Museum)
1980s till today
In the 1980’s, owners Peter Freary and Linda Wilson revitalized the old gardens, uncovered historical features, and incorporated the old Ledford Home into the resort. Additions to the inn continued under Al & Penny Greenwood, who opened three new units: Garden Cottage, Captain’s Watch and Whale Watch. The last addition to the property was the reopening of the Water Tower Cottage - complete with private hot tub and observation deck - by Steven and Maureen in the Fall of 2002.
We continue to honor the hospitality and history of our unique property by offering services and amenities that evoke the graciousness of times past. By continuing to care for and enhance these unique and historic buildings and grounds we strive to ensure that the inn offers the ease and luxury of modern life seamlessly blended with the unforgettable character and romance of the past.
Map note: The Victorian House, Carriage House, Sunset, and Quail Cottage can all be found at our Dennen’s Victorian Farmhouse Property.
Why guests love The Inn at Schoolhouse Creek
What They are Saying
- The room was so charming with the cutest cottagey character! Ending each night next to the fireplace and starting the mornings with coffee and that incredible view was the perfect way to start the fall season.
- We loved our stay here!! The property is really unique and the location is absolutely gorgeous. We loved being able to walk the trails and there's plenty of space for doggos to run around.
- I loved the charming Garden Cottage at the Inn at Schoolhouse creek. The cottage is charming and very private. It was the perfect spot for a solo trip to Mendocino. My dog really enjoyed the private patio area...
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