Ventura County Landmark No. 45: Pederson House and Water Tower

This typical turn-of-the-century farmhouse and water tower were built from 1913-1914 for Lars and Karn Pederson, immigrant members of the Norwegian Colony that settled the northern end of the Conejo Valley in 1890. The nearby water tower, built at the same time, provided plumbing for the residence.

In 1957, the Pedersons’ son Richard donated much of the 130-acre ranch to California Lutheran College (now, University). Additional land, including the buildings, was given to the university in 1967, at which time the buildings were restored. The buildings were later moved, and the house is now used by the school’s music department.