Carmichael Chamber of Commerce members join Carmichael Recreation and Park District staffers at a Garfield House event.

CARMICHAEL, CA (MPG) - Nestled in a Jensen Gardens glade, the once-neglected Garfield House is now an intimate event venue.

The former family residence has become 1,900 square feet of romantic hideaway within Carmichael’s Jensen Botanical Gardens.

Garfield House recently opened rustic doors for intimate celebrations. Hosting a summer soiree, Carmichael Recreation and Park District and the Carmichael Chamber of Commerce last week invited business leaders to inspect the restored facility.

Retired Park Services Manager Keith Maddison’s volunteer projects included Garfield House renovations. 

Carmichael residents Agnes and Gary Garfield built the Hansel and Gretel cottage in 1958. Their three-acre property overlooked Carmichael Creek and spectacular gardens established by famed botanists Charles and Marguerite Jensen.

Many years later, the Carmichael Recreation and Park District acquired the Garfield acres via a land exchange deal with Carmichael developer Danny Benvenuti.

Although the old house served as a Boy Scout meeting place, much-needed repairs waited until 2018, when restoration became a volunteer passion for Carmichael Recreation and Park District services manager Keith Maddison and friends.

Now part of Jensen-Sutter Park, Garfield House retains woodsy charm of the old Garfield family residence.

The Garfield’s knotty pine walls, ceiling beams and stained-glass windows remain. Wood floors have replaced linoleum. The 1950s bathrooms and appliances are upgraded. Expanded decks and new landscaping are exterior features. The facility hosts events for up to 60 people.

“It’s a romantic setting,” said Carmichael Recreation and Park District manager Regina Hill, who handles event reservations. “The venue is secluded, picturesque and affordable. It overlooks one of Carmichael’s most beautiful parks, so brides and photographers love it. We’ve also hosted memorials here for families whose loved ones found Jensen Botanical Gardens such a special place.”

Proceeds from facility rentals benefit the Carmichael Recreation and Park District’s development.

For event information, visit online www.carmichaelparks.com.