J. Gorman & Son Building
CITY OF BERKELEY LANDMARK
designated in 1982
J. Gorman & Son Building
Constructed circa 1880
Additions and Renovations 1890, 1906, 1940, 2005
John and Margaret Gorman moved their furniture and upholstery shop to this
location in 1880. It is one of Berkeley’s oldest commercial buildings and a surviving
example of the Victorian-era “corner store.” The original two-story structure fronts
Telegraph Avenue. The Parker Street wing, diagonal corner entrance, and turret were
added in 1906. The entire structure was renovated in 2005.
Gorman’s inventory became known for the unfinished yet functional beds,
bookcases, and desks that served the burgeoning university community.
In the early days they also made coffins. Four generations of the
family operated the business until it was sold in 1997
and later moved to Oakland.
Berkeley Historical Plaque Project
2007