Before Fullerton became the vibrant and diverse community it is today, it was synonymous with world-class horse trails as an equestrian hot-spot in the late 1940’s. Embodying the vintage charm of Southern California in its equestrian heyday, 1451 N Richman Knoll, formerly owned by local matriarch and community fixture Juanita Cooke, is listed for sale by First Team Real Estate agents Curtis Wesseln, Jon Perez, and Mary White-Jasper.
Former City Commissioner Juanita Cooke was one of the oldest living members of the Women Air Force Service Pilots (WASP); active in recreational riding programs in Fullerton. The Juanita Cooke Greenbelt & Trail, still in operation today, was named in her honor after she served 14 years on the Fullerton Parks and Recreation Commission, and as an influential board member of the Fullerton Recreational Riders. Helping shape the city landscape, Cooke was a trailblazer who left an indelible mark on Fullerton’s rich history.
Cooke’s previous residence is a stunning ranch home, expansively situated on a secluded cul-de-sac, an idyllic tree-lined street in Sunny Hills with rural roots and ample lots. Richman Knoll will soon observe 70 years of celebrating July 4th with the neighbors, every year blocking off the street to host a parade with horses and an annual pool party. Many have called this highly desirable street home for decades, cherishing a home where neighbors become friends.
Offering extraordinary privacy and stunning curb appeal, the sweeping front lawn features mature trees, colorful flowers, stone walls, and beautiful hardscapes. The 3,100+ square foot home with 2 garages, workshop, and RV or boat parking offers a backyard deck perfect for entertaining.
Inside, the upgraded kitchen flows into a sizable family room, featuring a fireplace and wet bar with cabinets and a mini-fridge so you can host the next block party.
The sprawling property also includes a detached structure with a game room, single garage, garden shed, and storage area, highly adaptable as an ADU. Located a short distance to award-winning schools and fabulous parks with walking trails, the two-acre equestrian property offers endless possibilities and a nostalgic tie to simpler times.
President of the National Charity League, and a member of 4-H, Cooke helped shape the horsetails and green spaces of the city when Fullerton was described as the one town in Orange County where horsemen outnumbered surfers.
Cooke had the foresight to see the value of the old Pacific Electric Railroad back in 1918 as a possible trail for riding horses. Brokering a financial win-win for the railroad and the city, the Juanita Cooke Trail was born converting rails to trails. Ultimately, the trail led to the Laguna Lake Park, which included a lighted horse show arena and a warm-up ring.
Her trail, as a part of the Fullerton Loop, serves anyone and everyone who just wants to enjoy the great outdoors including walkers, runners, bikers and horse riders. Locals can enjoy the use of these great trails thanks to the vision and achievements of earlier residents, like Juanita Cooke.
For more information regarding 1451 N Richman Knoll, contact the listing agents:
Jon Perez
jonperez@firstteam.com
(714) 865-3035
Curtis Wesseln
curtiswesseln@firstteam.com
(714) 747-1378
Mary White-Jasper
marywhitejasper@firstteam.com
(714) 321-0388