Our History
Though the Royal Olive Manor was purchased and turned into a Bed and Brunch by the Zelinsky family in 2019, the home dates back to the late 1800’s.
The home was originally built by George Hale, who owned one of the towns first lumber and sawmill businesses, in 1880. We named her The Royal Olive Manor in honor of the original owner’s daughter, and long time resident, Olive Sarah Hale Knudsen.
When we bought the property, we knew we wanted to carry on their legacy as hospitable and gracious hosts. At the Royal Olive Manor, you are always welcome. Day or night, rain or shine… Our home is your home, too.
Olive Hale Knudsen was 11 years old when she first moved into the home when her father first built it in 1880, and remained in the home with her husband and children, George and Anna Maria, until 1918. Olive was known for her bright spirit and cheerful personality, and she was active in many community organizations. It has been said that Olive and her husband often threw extravagant parties, and were gracious hosts to all who entered the home. We named the Royal Olive Manor after her because we feel that she truly is the heart of the home.
In the 1920’s, May and Charles Fitch purchased the home from Olive Hale Knudsen. Charles and May raised their 3 daughters and 1 son in the home. When Charles passed away in 1923, May decided to stay in the home to continue to raise their children. The Fitch family had a beautiful garden, and the house was always lively and fun as long as the children were around. The three girls, Alma, Ruth, and Bemis, all had wildly different personalities and interests, making everyday life interesting. The Fitch family also owned the City Hotel in Sonora, which still stands today. Years of hospitality in Tuolumne County makes us feel connected to the Fitches in a very special way, and we are honored to host people in the home that they loved.
Magdalene Franklin purchased the home from the Fitch children after May Fitch died in 1958, and owned the home until she herself passed away in 2005, at which time she gifted the home to her caretaker. Magdalene’s early years were spent as a Set Designer in Hollywood. At one point in her young adult years, Hollywood was grooming her to become the next Marilyn Monroe. However, as a strong Christian woman, she rejected the journey as she felt when she received her first speaking role that she was taking glory away from God. Magdalene later married a local lumberman, who announced that he was gay many years into their marriage. Though her roots were in Southern California, Magdalene loved this home in Sonora so much that she decided to stay. She then married Colonel Franklin, who passed away a few years before she did. We love Magdalene’s story, which is one of faith, heartbreak, and self discovery.