Sausalito Houseboat Where “Sylvia’s Mother” Was Written

Former Location. Please do not disturb current occupants!

According to his 2007 biography, Shel Silverstein moved into a converted wartime tub in 1967, thus joining Sausalito’s floating bohemia of artists and drifters.

It was at this location in 1972 Shel wrote “Sylvia’s Mother“which later became a hit single by “Dr. Hook & the Medicine Show” that went on to become the group’s first hit song, reaching #5 on the Billboard singles chart.

The song is semi-autobiographical, with Silverstein drawing upon his unsuccessful attempt to revive a failed relationship.

Not too far away, Otis Redding rented a houseboat that inspired him to write his mega hit “Dock of the Bay“.

Shel Silverstein’s Sausalito Houseboat
8 Liberty Dock
Sausalito, CA 94965