Edward T. Foulkes designed this Italian villa for Herman and Helena Brix.

Mr. Brix, born in Germany, immigrated to Coalinga in the early 1880's. He and his wife were among the pioneers of this region in the western San Joaquin Valley.

After failing as a farmer, Mr. Brix went to the gold fields of Alaska where he had more success. Upon his return to Coalinga, he invested in the emerging oil industry, securing his fortune. In 1903, he moved to Fresno, invested in many properties, and built a suitable home, the only pure Italian villa in Fresno.

Today the Brix Mansion is a commercial property housing law offices.