The Hatton House

William H. Hatton and the former Ora Davis were married February 6, 1889, in Salida, and started their married life in Modesto where Hatton was a practicing lawyer with partner, L. W. Fulkerth.  In May of 1892, the Hattons contracted with local builder, H. M. Coleman, to build their handsome home at 909 14th Street.  On September 8, 1892, about two dozen of their good friends gathered at the home of Sheriff Purvis, and they all marched to the recently completed Hatton house for a surprise house-warming.  In total surprise, the Hattons welcomed their guests in for a house tour, card games, and good conversation.  At 11 o’clock a late supper was served, and the guests departed shortly after midnight.

The visitors to the residence mounted the front steps from the sidewalk, crossed the wide porch, and entered through generous double doors into the reception hall.  A graceful curved staircase led to the second floor where each large bedroom had its own balcony.  From the entrance hall, a sliding door in a wide, square arch opened into the spacious living room with a large fireplace complete with a marble mantle.  One felt that all the rooms melted into each other through the high square arches so wide that it seemed like one continuous space.

Mr. Hatton was very active in the Masonic Lodge serving as Master two terms and Inspector of District No. 30 for many years.  Mrs. Hatton participated in civic events and served as Trustee for the Women’s Improvement Club.  They enjoyed their home and entertained often with large, formal dinners.  Hatton died in 1924, and Mrs. Hatton died in 1927.  The fine Hatton house was left to Mrs. Hatton’s brother, Edward C. Davis, the President of the Modesto Merchants’ Association.