Guarding a Legacy: Fire Protection for the North Star House

The North Star House is more than just a historic building: it’s a symbol of our region’s spirit, creativity, and resilience. Designed by renowned architect Julia Morgan and built in 1905, the house has witnessed over a century of change, growth, and community connection. But today, this irreplaceable landmark faces an urgent and devastating threat: fire.

With no interior fire suppression system, aging wooden infrastructure, and a landscape prone to wildfire, the North Star House is at extreme risk. One stray ember and this architectural treasure could be gone in less than an hour.

Like many others in Nevada County, our fire insurance was recently cancelled. The replacement coverage we’ve secured is not enough to truly recover what we’d lose. And the truth is, you can’t rebuild history. Once the North Star House is gone, it’s gone forever.

We’ve already taken steps toward fire safety: installing smoke detectors, creating defensible space, and adding irrigation tanks, but we’re not where we need to be. To truly protect this landmark, we must install a comprehensive fire suppression system, both inside and out. That includes:

• A full sprinkler system

• An improved on-site water supply

• Wildfire-resistant upgrades to vulnerable areas

  
  

We are launching a community fundraising campaign to raise $1.5 million to make these critical upgrades. It’s a big goal, but it’s nothing compared to the value of what we’re protecting.

We know how much the North Star House means to this community. You’ve made memories here. You’ve celebrated, connected, created, and learned here. Now, we’re asking you to stand with us to ensure this space continues to serve future generations.

Every gift, large or small, brings us closer to safeguarding this one-of-a-kind place.

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