Frank Ingerson and George Dennison, “the boys,” as their friends called them, were partners in art, love, and life. They were prolific designers, painters, and sculptors in their day, creating in partnership and often signing both names to a work of art.
Dennison and Ingerson moved to the hills of Los Gatos in 1911 and resided on a mountain property dubbed, "Cathedral Oaks." The estate became a haven for the queer community and like-minded creative people who lived nearby or came from out of town to escape their public lives. The couple hosted many significant contributors to the arts, including actress and life-long friend, Olivia de Havilland.
World famous violinist Yehudi Menuhin also sought refuge and peace at Cathedral Oaks. In the early 1960s, at Dennison and Ingerson’s urging, Menuhin purchased the property, providing a home for the couple until George’s death in 1966, followed by Frank in 1968. Menuhin eventually sold the property to Peninsula Open Space Trust, and later the home was destroyed.
Dennison and Ingerson were significant contributors to the arts and, what would be considered today, the LGBTQIA+ community in California and beyond. Not only were they innovators, craftsmen, artists, and designers, they cultivated a rich artistic culture in Los Gatos that continues to this day.
What would you ask Frank and George about their lives and what it was like in Los Gatos when they lived here? What would your safe haven look like and who would you invite to stay there?
