On Oct. 25, 1882, the Veterans Home of California Association purchased 910 acres in Yountville for $17,750, and the first building was erected on the site. It opened April 1, 1884, for Civil and Mexican War veterans. By July 1, 1889, the Home had grown to 55 buildings and was gift deeded to the State of California. In 1926, Col. Nelson M. Holderman, Congressional Medal of Honor recipient from WWI, was named commandant. He began modernization of the Home, which was almost completed by his death on Sept. 3, 1953. The Home was dedicated to the principle of caring for those who served.