The workers, represented by Teamsters Local 856, are seeking higher wages, health care and longevity benefits, along with limits on tour-group sizes. They say rising living costs are putting pressure on employees, many of whom grew up in the area.

Union officials also accuse management of going around the bargaining process by approaching guides directly to sign waivers allowing the use of their images and likenesses in promotional materials. The union says that issue should have been negotiated collectively.

Tour guide Emma Garcia Jones, a San Jose native, said workers want a fair contract and respect for their role in sharing the mansion’s history with visitors. She said the guides discuss Sarah Winchester’s treatment of workers, including meals, wages and housing, and argued that current management should honor that legacy.

The historic mansion covers about 24,000 square feet and has 160 rooms. Guides say the building’s layout raises safety concerns for large groups, citing narrow room sizes, ventilation and the 47 stairways visitors may navigate during a tour.

J. Jaramillo, a guide who has worked at the mansion for more than five years, said employees organized to gain the leverage of a union and are seeking better working conditions and a strong first contract.

Teamsters Local 856 represents the guides, who organized in 2025. The mansion draws thousands of visitors annually.