Geordie’s History

Originally an outdoor patio, these areas have gone through several renovations. Step into the South Veranda of Geordie’s Restaurant and you’ll see the original roofline and outdoor fireplace. The bar, built in 2003, was designed around the home’s original columns. The black and white photos are of Geordie Hormel (1928-2006), who purchased the Mansion with his wife Jamie in 1992. Besides being the heir of Hormel Foods, Geordie was a talented artist, musician, and composer. He taught himself how the play the piano at the age of five just by listening to songs on the radio and then trying to mimic the sounds.

During the 1950s and 60s, Geordie composed much of the theme music for popular television shows including Lassie, Gun Smoke, Ozzy and Harriet, and The Fugitive. He owned his own recording studio in Los Angeles called The Village, where he worked with artists such as John Lennon, The Rolling Stones, Fleetwood Mac and so many more.

Geordie’s Gallery

While in Geordie’s Lounge, look up and you’ll see the second floor, which is Geordie’s Gallery. It was an outdoor balcony shared by the two primary suites and now can be used as part of the bar, or reserved for private events along with the Colina or Catalina Rooms. The façade and its shutters are original. You can find out more about Geordie and Jamie when you visit the History Hall upstairs.