Built in 1888, the Palomares House is one of the oldest standing homes in Fallbrook. It was originally part of Rancho Monserate, a 13,332-acre land grant awarded to Ysidro Alvarado in 1846. The house was constructed by his daughter, Lugarda de Palomares, and her son-in-law, Henry Abila, around 1888. After various owners and uses—including ranching and a Christmas tree farm—the property was threatened with development in 1988. FLC acquired and restored the house in 1990 to preserve its historical and architectural value. More details on the history of the Palomares House can be found at the Fallbrook Historical Society's website.

Today, it serves as the headquarters for the FLC. It can be rented for private events, meetings and weddings. It is also home to our Stagecoach Sunday fundraiser every fall.

The surrounding 1.5-acre park features a native plant arboretum and a Wildlife Sculpture Garden with life-sized bronze sculptures of California wildlife, including a mountain lion and a covey of quail. These artworks were generously donated and are part of a collaboration between the FLC and Art in Public Places. The garden provides a peaceful setting for reflection and appreciation of both art and nature.

In 2022, the gardens were renovated with support from the County of San Diego's WaterSmart Rebate Program. Drought-tolerant native plants replaced high-water-use lawns, and sustainable practices like rain gardens, sheet mulching, and low-flow irrigation were implemented to conserve water and support local wildlife.

Visitors can honor loved ones by purchasing a commemorative tile to be placed along the park’s memorial path. This initiative supports ongoing stewardship and connects the community to the park's legacy.

You can donate and earmark a memorial stone in honor of your loved one here.

Our Sculpture Garden is planted and maintained by volunteers who routinely pull weeds, install stones and rotate art installations. To join our volunteer efforts and stretch your green thumb, view our volunteer page.

A list of plants used in the garden can be found here.

A list of sculptures displayed in the garden can be found here.