The Muckenthaler Mansion celebrated it’s 90th Anniversary this past Sunday, Sept. 14, 2014, with “Swingin’ 20s” theme to honor the year the house was built. The Muck sits upon a small hill overlooking the corner of Malvern and Euclid in Fullerton.

In 1924 Walter and Adella Muckenthaler commissioned an 18 room house on nearly 9 acres of land for $35,000 which is roughly about $470,000 today. The cost of commissioning a house in Fullerton on a hill would easily start around $1 million.

The architecture of the house could easily be described as having a Spanish Colonial aesthetic. Genuine Italian craft exists in the house with the wrought iron staircase that was imported from Italy as well as unique custom tiles designed by famed tilest Ernest Batchelder.

Though since 1981 the property has seen drastic renovations and additions including the 1990 construction of the amphitheater sitting in the low south end of the gardens. Even with the changes the house continues to hold true to the 20th century feel.

Sundays record temperatures reached high into the 100. Unfortunately the heat was the cause for many event goers to beat the heat and stay out of the sun at the event. Where usually an outdoor Muckenthaler event would see 1,000 to 1,700 patrons, the expected turnout for Sunday’s event was only about 500.

Though attendance was low due to the weather highs, attendees still had a great time.

Musical entertainment included music from Fullerton College’s own “Lemon Street Stompers” who performed 1920s ragtime music.

Patrons sat in the shade of the Muckenthaler Amphitheater bobbing their heads and tapping their feet drowning their senses in the atmosphere of the celebration.

Those who were more interested in activities participated in friendly games of croquet or took guided tours of the mansion.

The food was a selection of Coney Island food such as hot dogs, which were very popular in the 1920s.

Overall the event was spectacular. If it weren’t for the skyrocketing temperatures, the attendence and atmosphere may have been different.

If you’re looking for a great Muckenthaler event to attend soon, check out themuck.org for more information on their upcoming events such as their black tie gala and Oktoberfest.