California couple rebuilt old backyard railway; estate later sold for $8.5m

A California couple restored a nostalgic backyard railway in their 1.55-acre estate in La Cañada Flintridge, a hillside community north of downtown Los Angeles. David and Sherry Kirchheimer bought the property in 2008, discovering remnants of an old garden railway hidden within. Rather than removing the historic railway, they spent time and effort restoring it, integrating it into their home.

The estate, described as "a captivating blend of stately, bucolic and magical," boasts a 50-by-19-foot swimming pool, a two-level deck, a rose garden, a pergola adorned with wisteria, and more. Central to the property's unique charm is the Flintheim Railroad, a five-passenger garden railway complete with a train station, tunnel, bridges, a general store, a mining camp, and even a replica of the Grizzly Flats Railroad shed. The railway was designed by Walt Disney Imagineer Bill Tyson.

The main house features six bedrooms and eight bathrooms, a grand foyer with a curved staircase, a formal dining and living room, a chef's kitchen with top-of-the-line appliances, and a guest suite with a sitting room, fireplace, balcony, and a luxurious bathtub. Additional structures include a one-bedroom guest house, a gym, a workshop, and a game house complete with a pool table and stone fireplace.

The meticulously landscaped grounds have earned multiple La Cañada Beautiful awards, with a two-car garage, two-car carport, and a large, flat circular driveway that can accommodate a dozen vehicles.

The property, which includes the railway, was listed for $8.5 million and quickly attracted potential buyers. Its prime location near the freeway and local schools added to its appeal.