A Noteworthy Danville Resident: Eugene O’Neill

In all of Danville’s history, one of its most famous residents included Nobel Prize winning playwright Eugene O’Neill.  O’Neill and his wife, Carlotta, lived in Danville for six years, between 1937 and 1944, in a ranch they called Tao House.  The couple moved to Danville shortly after O’Neill won the Nobel Prize for Literature.  It was while at Tao House that he completed five major works.

Tao House was located in Las Trampas Hills with a view of Mount Diablo.  The O’Neill’s enjoyed a quiet life in Danville and of all the places they lived, Tao House was the one they most considered home.

Today, Tao House has been acquired by the Eugene O’Neill Foundation, and is one of Danville’s best kept secrets.  Visitors are welcome to tour Tao House by reservation through the National Park Service.  The Foundation and the National Park Service also collaborate to present events and programs that support arts and education throughout the year, such as the O’Neill Festival, performances, hosting visiting playwrights, and mentoring students.

In addition to Tao House, The Eugene O’Neill Commemorative honors O’Neill’s life and career, especially of his accomplishments while at Tao House.  Located across the Danville Library on Front Street, the quiet pocket park features a beautiful bronze sculpture with a quote from Long Days Journey Into Night.

Visit the Eugene O’Neill Foundation for more information on how you can visit Tao House and celebrate the life of the best playwright of American history, one of Danville’s very own.