The South Pasadena City Council designated The Bissell House as South Pasadena's Cultural Landmark No. 36, in 1993.

During the late 19th Century, Pasadena's Orange Grove Avenue was lined with beautiful mansions, some of which still stand. Built in 1887, The Bissell House has been the southern anchor of this famous street, which was traditionally referred to as "Millionaire's Row."This three-story Victorian mansion was constructed one year before South Pasadena's incorporation as a city. It was first owned by Miren S. Daniels, a businessman who came to California from Massachusetts. After his death , the house was acquired by Thaddeus Updegraff, a well-known Pasadena physician.

The house was then acquired by William Southerland McCay, a prominent architect of Southern California. His wife, Anna Bissell McCay, lived in the house from about 1903 and into the 1950's. Mrs. McCay was the daughter of magnate Melville Bissell of Michigan, who made his fortune designing and manufacturing carpet sweepers.

Mrs. McCay was one of Pasadena's most beloved philanthropists. She was a founding member of the Pasadena Chapter of the American Red Cross, which became her life's work. Mrs. McCay's nieces, now in their 80's, have relayed an amusing anecdote to the current Bissell House owners.

Mrs. McCay once hosted a dinner party for guest of honor, Albert Einstein. Professor Einstein reportedly caused a stir when he preferred the company of McCays 7-year old niece to that of the adults. After spending an hour visiting with the youngster, he requested that Mrs. McCay set her a plate at the dinner table. In an era when children were seldom seated for dinner with the adults, this request caused quite a stir.