#0079 Presidio of San Francisco
Site information: SW cornier of Funston Ave and Lincoln Blvd, San Francisco The site includes the surrounding blocks of former presidio grounds. The plaque is here: 37.800807,-122.454771
Plaque information: State plaque
Plaque text: Presidio of San Francisco Formally established on September 17, 1776, the San Francisco Presidio has been administered successfully as a military headquarters by Spain, Mexico, and the United States. A major command post during the Mexican War, Civil War, Spanish-American War, World Wars I and II, and the Korean War, and remains a symbol of United States authority in the Pacific. Plaque placed by the California State Park Commission in cooperation with the California History Commission and the United States Army, September 18, 1965.
Site information: 600 Montgomery St, San Francisco Although the plaque indicates otherwise, the building was torn down in 1959. 37.795288,-122.403044
Plaque information: State plaque The plaque is located inside the building, so may be inaccessible after hours. It is visible from outside.
Plaque text: The Montgomery Block This, San Francisco's first fireproof building, erected in 1853 by Henry Wager Halleck, was the headquarters for many outstanding lawyers, financiers, writers, actors, and artists. James King of William, editor of the Bulletin, died here on May 14, 1856 after being shot by James Casey. Escaping destruction in the fire of 1906, the building is preserved in memory of those who lived and worked in it. Plaque placed by the California State Park Commission in cooperation with the Sociey of California Pioneers.
#0081 Landing Place of Captain J.B. Montgomery
Site information: 552 Montgomery St, SE corner of Montgomery and Clay, San Francisco 37.794574,-122.403047
Plaque information: Private plaque
Plaque text: On July 9, 1846, in the early morning, in "the days when the water came up to Montgomery Street," Commander John B. Montgomery - for whom Montgomery Street was named - landed near this spot from the U.S. Sloop-of-War "Portsmouth," to raise the Stars and Stripes on the Plaza, now Portsmouth Square, one block to the west. Tablet placed by the Native Sons of the Golden West. 1915.
Site information: End of Marine Dr, Fort Point, San Francisco (below Golden Gate Bridge) 37.810523,-122.476717
Plaque text: The first ship to enter San Francisco Bay, the San Carlos (Captain Ayala), dropped anchor off this point August 5, 1775. Lieutenant-Colonel Don Juan Bautista de Anza planted the cross on Cantil Blanco (White Cliff) March 28, 1776. The first fortification, Castillo de San Joaquin, was completed December 8, 1794 by Jose Joaquin de Arrillaga, sixth Governor of California. In 1853 United States Army engineers cut down the cliff and built Fort Point, renamed Fort Winfield Scott in 1882. This fort is a partial replica of Fort Sumter and is the only brick fort west of the Mississippi, its seawall has stood undamaged for over a hundred years. This tabled placed by San Francisco Chapter, Daughters of the American Revolution 1955
Plaque information: Private plaques
North plaque text: This tablet marks the shoreline of San Francisco Bay at the time of the discovery of gold in California, January 24, 1848. Map reproduced above delineates old shoreline. Placed by Historic Landmarks Committee, Native Sons of the Golden West, 1921. South plaque text: The shore line of San Francisco Bay reached a point twenty-five feet northwesterly from this spot at the time gold was discovered by James W. Marshall at Coloma, California, January 24, 1848. Map of old water line shown on tablet on opposite side of street. Placed by Historic Landmarks Committee, Native Sons of the Golden West, 1921.
Site information: NW corner of Beale and Bryant Sts, San Francisco Nothing remains of this site, as far as I know. 37.786392,-122.390074
Plaque text: Rincon Hill A fashionable neighborhood in the 1860s, Rincon Hill was the home of William Tecumseh Sherman, William C. Ralston, William Gwin, H. H. Bancroft, and others. By the 1880s the hill, already partially leveled, became a working class district. Today it is nearly invisible beneath the Bay Bridge. This plaque is mounted on the retaining wall of St. Mary's Hospital, built 1861 but destroyed in the fire of 1906. Plaque placed by the State Department of Parks and Recreation in cooperation with the Yerba Buena Chapter No. 1 of E Clampus Vitus and Charles Albert Shumate, April 16, 1981. Plaque replaced in cooperation with the California Department on Transportation and Yerba Buena Number One, Capitulus Redivivius, E Clampus Vitus, after removal of St. Mary's Hospital retaining wall and installed approximately 900 feet northeast of original location in October of 2011.
#0085 Office of the California Star Newspaper
Site information: S side of Washington St, between Walter U Lum Pl and Grant Ave, San Francisco Nothing remains of this site, as far as I know. 37.795071,-122.406272
Plaque text: On this site January 9, 1847, The California Star, the first newspaper in San Francisco, was published by Samuel Brannan. This marker placed by E Clampus Vitus February 6, 1937
OHP description: On this site January 9, 1847, the first newspaper in San Francisco, The California Star - later known as The Alta Californian, was published by Samuel Brannan with Elbert P. Jones as editor.
Site information: 430 Bush St between Kearny and Grant, San Francisco Nothing remains of this site, as far as I know. 37.790785,-122.404692
Plaque text: On this site on January 18, 1869, the California Theatre, built by William C. Ralston, opened with the following stock company: John McCullough, Lawrence Barrett, Harry Edwards, Willie Edouin, E. B. Holmes, William Mastayer, John T. Raymond, W. F. Burroughs, W. H. Sadley Smith, John Wilson, Edward J. Buckley, Mrs. Judah Emelie Melville, Elizabeth Saunders, Annette Ince, Marie E. Gordon, Sophie Edwin, Minnie Walton, and Julia Buckley. This theater remained a brilliant center of drama until August 11, 1888. Among artists who played here were Charles W. Couldock, Edwin Adams, John Broughan, Edwin Booth, Barton Hill, Walter Montgomery, Mrs. D. P. Bowers, Adelaide Neilson, and Lotta Crabtree. Tablet placed by the Commonwealth Club of California and the Pacific Telephone and Telegraph Company - 1932.
#0087 Site of First U.S. Branch Mint in California
Site information: 608-610 Commercial St near Montgomery, San Francisco Nothing remains of this site, as far as I know. 37.794211, -122.403627
Plaque text: Site of First U.S. Branch Mint The first United States branch mint in San Francisco was authorized by Congress July 3, 1852 and opened for operation April 3, 1854. Dr. L. A. Birdsall was the first superintendent, J. Huston, first minter, and A. Haraszthy, first assayer. Tablet placed by California Centennials Commission with the cooperation of the Society of California Pioneers. Dedicated October 31, 1949.
Site information: 505 Sansome, plaque on Clay St wall, San Francisco Nothing remains of this site, as far as I know. 37.794920,-122.401713
Plaque text: Site of Ship Niantic The emigrant ship Niantic stood on this spot in the early days "when the water came up to Montgomery Street." Converted to other uses, it was covered with a shingle roof with offices and stores on the deck, at the level of which was constructed a wide balcony surmounted by a veranda. The hull was divided into warehouses entered by doorways on the sides. The fire of May 3, 1851 destroyed all but the submerged hulk, which later was utilized as the foundation for the Niantic Hotel, a famous hostelry that stood until 1872. This tablet placed by the Historic Landmarks Committee of the Native Sons of the Golden West, Sept. 19, 1919.
#0089 Site of Parrott Granite Block
Site information: NW corner of California and Montgomery, San Francisco Nothing remains of this site, as it was torn down in 1926. ~37.792966,-122.402946
Plaque information: No plaque
OHP description: The Parrott Block was erected in 1852 by John Parrott, an importer and banker. The three-story building, built by Chinese labor, was of granite blocks brought from China. The 1906 earthquake and fire did little damage to the building, which soon thereafter reopened for business. In 1926 it was demolished to make way for the Financial Center Building.
Site information: S side of Sacramento between Davis and Front, San Francisco Nothing remains of this site, as far as I know. 37.794286,-122.398385
Plaque text: Fort Gunny-Bags was situated on this spot. Headquarters of the Vigilance Committee during the year 1856.
OHP description: This is the site of the headquarters of the Vigilance Committee of 1856. On June 21, 1856, Judge David S. Terry was arrested and confined in a cell. The committee, fearing that his friends might attempt to rescue him, decided to fortify the building with gunnysacks filled with sand.
Site information: W side of Coit Tower parking lot, Telegraph Hill, San Francisco 37.802940,-122.406228
Plaque text: During gold rush days a look-out stationed in a structure on this spot observed and signalled the arrival of incoming vessels. By adjusting movable arms high on a tall pole and by hoisting national colors, he identified the nature of the ship arriving and alerted the town below. After four years, in 1853, this novel signalling system become obsolete through use of electrical telegraph. This monument erected by California Historical Society July 20, 1961, on the occasion of the arrival of "S.S. Canberra" of the P&O Steam Navigation Company. Original plaque replaced by the Coit Tower Preservation Fund, and rededicated January 31, 1993 on the arrival of "S.S. Canberra", world cruise 1993
OHP description: A signal station was erected on Telegraph Hill in 1849 from which to observe the incoming vessels, a tall pole with movable arms was used to signal to the people in the town below whether sailing vessels or the sidewheel vessels of the Pacific mail were passing through the Golden Gate. In September 1853, the first telegraph in California, which extended eight miles to Point Lobos, was stationed here, giving the hill its name.
Site information: Portsmouth Square Park, on Kearny between Clay and Washington, San Francisco 37.795068,-122.405690
Plaque text: On this spot the American flag was first raised in San Francisco by Commander John B. Montgomery of the U.S.S. Portsmouth July 9, 1846. Marked by the Daughters of the American Revolution, San Francisco Chapters, 1924.
OHP description: Named for the U.S.S. Portsmouth, commanded by Captain John B. Montgomery, after whom Montgomery Street was named. It was here on the plaza that Captain Montgomery first raised the American flag near the Mexican adobe custom house on July 9, 1846. Center of many early-day activities, this plaza was the site of: the first public school building, erected in 1847 on the southwest corner of plaza, where religious services and many public meetings were held; the dramatic announcement of gold discovery made on May 11, 1848, when Sam Brannan displayed glittering samples to crowds; the mass meeting to urge election of delegates to Monterey Constitutional Convention on June 12, 1849; refuge for citizens following conflagrations of 1849, 1850, 1851, and 1906; a citizens' assembly on July 16, 1849 to organize against depredations of a lawless body called the "Hounds;"' memorial services held August 29, 1850, following death of President Zachary Taylor; first Admission Day celebration held October 29, 1850, when the steamship Oregon brought the news that California had become 31st state on September 9; an indignation meeting, organized June 1, 1852, to protest against the city council's purchase of the Jenny Lind Theatre to be used as a city hall; commemorative services held for Henry Daly, August 10, 1852; and an oration delivered by Colonel E. D. Baker on September 18, 1859, over the body of U. S. Senator David C. Broderick, killed in duel with Chief Justice David S. Terry. Robert Louis Stevenson spent many hours here during his visit to the city in 1879-1880.
#0192 "El Dorado," "Parker House," and "Dennison's Exchange"
Site information: 750 Kearny St at Merchant, San Francisco Nothing remains of this site, as far as I know. 37.795057,-122.404662
Plaque text: Site of the Jenny Lind Theatre and San Francisco City Hall The third Jenny Lind Theatre was opened by Tom Maguire on October 4, 1851 on the same site as the two preceding it, which were destroyed in the fires of 1851. In 1852 the City of San Francisco purchased this theatre 1852 for use as the city hall. Tablet placed by California Centennials Commission with the cooperation of the Society of California Pioneers. Dedicated November 15, 1949.
OHP description: The 'El Dorado,' the 'Parker House,' and 'Dennison's Exchange' were among the most famous hotel and gambling resorts around San Francisco in the early 1850s. The Jenny Lind Theatre replaced the Parker House in 1850. The third Jenny Lind Theatre, opened by Tom Maguire on October 4, 1851 on the same site as the two preceding it, which were destroyed in the fires of 1851, was purchased by the City of San Francisco in 1852 for use as the city hall.
#0236 Entrance of the San Carlos into San Francisco Bay
Plaque text: First Ship into San Francisco Bay On August 5, 1775, the Spanish packet San Carlos, under the command of Lieutenant Juan Manuel de Ayala, became the first ship to enter San Francisco Bay. A month and a half was spent in surveying the bay from its southernmost reaches to the northern end of present-day Suisun Bay. The San Carlos departed September 18, 1775. Plaque placed by the State Department of Parks and Recreation in cooperation with the San Francisco Twin Bicentennial, Inc., August 5, 1975.
#0327 Mission San Francisco de Asis (Mission Dolores)
Plaque information: Private plaque located on mission grounds. Fee required for entry during operating hours.
Plaque text: Mision San Francisco De Asis (Mission Dolores) This edifice the construction of which was started in 1788, was dedicated August 2, 1791. An adobe structure in use since that time, it is the oldest building in San Francisco. Original adobe brick walls and roof tiles are still in place. Plaque placed by the California State Society, Daughters of the American Revolution, Mrs. Everett E. Jones, State regent. March 12, 1975. U.S.A. bicentennial dedication
OHP description: The sixth mission to be founded was San Francisco de Asis. This mission was dedicated by Father Junipero Serra on October 9, 1776; construction of mission buildings was completed 1784. Mission Dolores has none of the usual arches, arcades, and towers which adorn the more elaborate sister missions, but nonetheless its massive simplicity makes it impressive.
#0327-1 Site of Original Mission Dolores Chapel and Dolores Lagoon
Site information: Camp and Albion Sts, San Francisco Nothing remains of this site, as far as I know. 37.764022,-122.422726
Plaque text: Site of Original Mission Dolores Chapel and Dolores Lagoon On June 29, 1776, Father Fancisco Palou, a member of the Anza Expedition, had a brushwood shelter built here on the edge of a now vanished lake, Lago de los Dolores (Lake of the Sorrows), and offered the first mass. The first mission was a log and thatch structure dedicated on October 9, 1776 when the necessary church documents arrived. The present Mission Dolores was dedicated in 1791. Plaque placed by the State Department of Parks and Recreation in cooperation with the Albion/Camp Neighborhood Association, June 29, 1995. Plaque reverse side text: Ishman colma carac yonahi acho isha hachche owahto harwec irshah. (Sun, moon, sky, village, friend, alive: We eat, drink, sing and dance. -Rammaytush) Dedicated to the Rammaytush, the first people of San Francisco.
Site information: Intersection of Leidesdorff and Commercial Sts, San Francisco Nothing remains of this site, unless you consider Commercial Street to be Long Wharf. ~37.794318,-122.402283
OHP description: In the spring of 1848, the old Central or Long Wharf was built 'from the bank in the middle of the block between Sacramento and Clay Streets, where Leidesdorff Street now is, 800 feet into the Bay.' After 1850 it was extended 2,000 feet and the Pacific mail steamers and other large vessels anchored there. Central or Long Wharf is now Commercial Street.
#0408 Site of the First Meeting of Freemasons Held in California
Site information: 728 Montgomery St, San Francisco I don't know if anything remains of this site, considering the fire of 1906. 37.796086, -122.403341
Plaque information: Private plaque has gone missing or has been removed.
OHP description: On November 9, 1849, a charter was granted by the Grand Lodge of the District of Columbia for the organization of California Lodge NO. 13, now California Lodge NO. 1 of the Free and Accepted Masons. On November 23, 1848, Levi Stowell was appointed master of the new lodge, and on November 15, 1849, the lodge was formally organized under the charter.
#0453 Lucas, Turner & Co. Bank (Sherman's Bank)
Site information: NE corner of Montgomery and Jackson, San Francisco Nothing remains of this site, as far as I know. 37.796500,-122.403409
Plaque text: Site of the Bank of Lucas, Turner & Co. (Sherman's Bank) William Tecumseh Sherman established the branch bank of Lucas, Turner & Co. in San Francisco in 1853. He settled the firm in their own building on the northeast corner of Jackson and Montgomery Streets in the spring of 1854. Sherman successfully carried the bank through the financial crisis of 1855, and remained until it discontinued business in 1857. Tablet placed by California Centennials Commission with the cooperation of the Society of California Pioneers. Dedicated January 17, 1950.
Site information: SW corner of Mission and Duboce Sts, San Francisco Nothing remains of this site, as far as I know. 37.769826,-122.420292
Plaque text: Site of Woodward's Gardens The Gardens once occupied the block bounded by Mission, Duboce, Valencia, and 14th Streets, with the main entrance on Mission Street. R. B. Woodward opened his gardens to the public in 1866 as an amusement park catering to all tastes. It was San Francisco's most popular resort until it closed in 1892. Tablet placed by California Centennials Commission with the cooperation of the Society of California Pioneers. Dedicated December 15, 1947.
#0459 Site of Brick Building of the Firm of Mellus and Howard
Site information: 555 Montgomery at Clay, San Francisco Nothing remains of this site, as far as I know. ~37.794576,-122.403246
OHP description: In the Mellus and Howard Warehouse, erected on this site in 1848, the Society of California Pioneers, oldest historical society in the state, was organized August 31, 1850 to collect and preserve the history of California. W. D. M. Howard was its first president.
#0462 Site of First Jewish Religious Services in San Francisco
Site information: 735 Montgomery between Washington and Jackson, San Francisco Nothing remains of this site, as far as I know. 37.796158,-122.403584
Plaque text: First Jewish Religious Services In a second floor room in a store that once stood on this location, forty pioneers of the Jewish faith gathered on Yom Kippur (5610), September 26, 1849, and participated in the first Jewish religious services in San Francisco. Tablet placed by California Centennials Commission with the cooperation of the Society of California Pioneers. Dedicated September 6, 1950.
#0500 Eastern Terminus of Clay Street Hill Railroad
Site information: Portsmouth Plaza, Clay and Kearny, San Francisco Nothing remains of this site, as far as I know. 37.794615,-122.405032
Plaque text: Andrew Smith Hallidie Site of the eastern terminus, first street cars in the world propelled by cable. Commenced operation August 1, 1873. Ceased February 15, 1942. Invented and installed by Andrew S. Halladie, born London, England March 16, 1836. Died San Francisco, April 24, 1900. Pioneer manufacturer of wire cables, Regent University of California, twice member Board of Freeholders for drafting proposed city charter, served on first Board of Trustees, 1878, of the San Francisco Public Library. Registered state landmark No. 500, Tablet placed by the California State Park Commission. Base furnished by friends of Andrew S. Hallidie.
OHP description: The Clay Street Hill Railroad Company, the first cable railroad system in the world, was invented and installed by Andrew S. Hallidie. It started operation on August 1, 1873 and ceased on February 15, 1942.
Site information: Portsmouth Plaza, Clay and Kearny Sts, San Francisco Nothing remains of this site, as far as I know. 37.794550,-122.405496
Plaque text: This marks the site of the first public school in California. Erected in 1847. Opened on April 3, 1848. This commemorative marker was erected in 1957 by the Grand Lodge of Free and Accepted Masons of the State of California.
OHP description: This is the site of the first public school in California. It was opened on April 3, 1848 on the southwest corner of Portsmouth Square.
Plaque information: The state plaque in photo 2 was removed during renovations. I couldn't find the plaque when I returned.
Plaque text: Union Square This was the center of San Francisco in pioneer days, deeded for public use January 3, 1850 during the administration of John White Geary, first mayor and postmaster, and later Governor of Kansas and Pennsylvania. The name originated in 1860 when public meetings were held here in support of the Union. Plaque placed by the California State Park Commission in cooperation with the City of San Francisco and the San Francisco Landmarks Council. May 26, 1958
Site information: SW corner of Sacramento and Leidesdorff Sts, San Francisco Nothing remains of this site, it was destroyed in the fire of 1906. 37.793785,-122.402201
Plaque text: Site of What Cheer House This is the site of the famous What Cheer House, a unique hotel opened in 1852 by R. B. Woodward and destroyed by the fire of 1906. The What Cheer House catered to men only, permitted no liquor on the premises, and housed San Francisco's first free library and first museum. Plaque placed by the California State Park Commission in cooperation with the California Historical Society and the American Trust Company, April 24, 1959.
#0691 Sarcophagus of Thomas Starr King
Site information: First Unitarian Church, Franklin between Starr King and Geary, San Francisco 37.784742,-122.422984
Plaque text: Sarcophagus of Thomas Starr King Apostle of liberty, humanitarian, Unitarian minister, who in the Civil War bound California to the Union and led her to excel all other states in support of the United States Sanitary Commission, predecessor to the American Red Cross. His statue, together with that of Father Junípero Serra, represents California in the National Capitol. His name is borne by a Yosemite peak-"A man to match our mountains." Plaque placed by the California State Park Commission in cooperation with the California Historical Society and the First Unitarian Church of San Francisco, April 24, 1960.
#0696 Western Business Headquarters of Russell, Majors and Waddell - Founders, Owners and Operators of the Pony Express
Site information: 601 Montgomery St at Merchant St, San Francisco Nothing remains of this site, as far as I know. 37.795002,-122.403374
Plaque text: Western Headquarters of Russell, Majors and Waddell This was the site of the western business headquarters of Russell, Majors, and Waddell-founders, owners, and operators of the Pony Express, 1860-1861. The firm's main office was in Leavenworth, Kansas, W. W. Finney was the western representative in San Francisco. Plaque placed by the California State Park Commission in cooperation with the Society of California Pioneers, April 1, 1960.
#0754 Site of the Mark Hopkins Institute of Art
Site information: SE corner of California at Mason, San Francisco Nothing remains of the original mansion, which burned in the 1906 fire. 37.791767,-122.410488
Plaque text: Site of The Mark Hopkins Insitute of Art In February 1893, Mr. Edward F. Searles donated the Hopkins Mansion to the University of California in trust for the San Francisco Art Institute for 'instruction in and illustration of the fine arts, music, and literature,' and as San Francisco's first cultural center. Plaque placed by the California State Park Commission in cooperation with the San Francisco Art Institute, The Mark Hopkins Hotel, and California Historical Society, October 20, 1961.
#0760 Site of Laurel Hill Cemetery
Site information: 3333 California St at Walnut, San Francisco Nothing remains of this site, as the cemetery was relocated. 37.786945,-122.448363
Plaque information: The plaque has been stolen or removed.
OHP description: The builders of the West, civic and military leaders, jurists, inventors, artists, and eleven United States Senators are buried here, on the most revered of San Francisco's hills.
#0772 Original Site of St. Mary's College
Site information: Intersection of Mission and College Sts, San Francisco Nothing remains of this site, as far as I know. 37.735130,-122.424349
Plaque text: St. Mary's College In August 1863, Archbishop Joseph Sadoc Alemany, O.P. opened St. Mary's College at this location with a faculty of two diocesan priests, four laymen, and two student teachers. In August 1868, at the invitation of the archbishop, Brother Justin McMahon and seven Christian Brothers took charge of St. Mary's. The Christian brothers have manifested the principle characterized by the best educational institutions, excellence. Plaque placed by the California State Park Commission in cooperation with St. Mary's College, its alumni, and the California Historical Society, September 29, 1962.
#0784 El Camino Real - San Francisco Terminus
Site information: Mission San Francisco de Asis, Dolores St, between 16th and 17th Sts, San Francisco This is the northern terminus of the road. 37.764082,-122.426525
Plaque text: El Camino Real This plaque was placed on the 250th anniversary of the birth of California's apostle, Padre Junípero Serra, OFM, to mark northern terminus of El Camino Real as Padre Serra knew it and helped blaze it. 1731 - November 24 - 1963 Plaque placed by the California State Park Commission in cooperation with the Committee for El Camino Real November 21, 1963.
#0791 Original Site of Bancroft Library
Site information: W side of Valencia St, South of Cesar Chavez St, San Francisco Nothing remains of this site, as far as I know. 37.747511,-122.420374
Plaque text: Original Site of Bancroft Library Here, from 1881-1906, stood the library of Hubert Howe Bancroft, who in 1860 began to collect the wealth of material which was to subsequently result in the writing of the monumental history of Western North America.. In 1905, the library was purchased by the University of California and removed the following year to its Berkeley campus. Plaque placed by the California State Park Commission in cooperation with the Friends of the Bancroft Library, The California Historical Society, and St. Luke's Hospital, November 24, 1964.
OHP description: In 1860 Hubert Howe Bancroft began to collect the wealth of material which was to result in the writing of his monumental history of western North America. His library was located here in 1881, in 1905 it was purchased by the University of California and moved the following year to Berkeley.
#0810 Site of Old St. Mary's Church
Site information: NE corner of California and Grant Ave, San Francisco 37.792658,-122.405843
Plaque text: Site of Old St. Mary's The first building erected as a cathedral in California, Old St. Mary's served the Archdiocese of San Francisco in that capacity from 1854 to 1891. Once the city's most prominent building, much of its stonework was quarried and cut in China and its brick brought "around the Horn" in sailing ships. Plaque placed by the California State Park Commission in cooperation with the Paulist Fathers and the Grand Parlor, Native Sons of the Golden West, May 7, 1966.
#0819 Hudson's Bay Company Headquarters
Site information: S side of Commercial St between Montgomery and Kearny, San Francisco Nothing remains of this site, as far as I know. 37.794132, -122.403476
Plaque text: Hudson's Bay Company On this block, then on Yerba Buena's waterfront, stood the California headquarters of the Hudson's Bay Company. Their chief trader, William G. Tae, purchased the property and started operations in 1841. This venture caused wide speculation about British intentions. Inadequate profits, a declining fur catch, and pressure of U.S. expansion caused Hudson's Bay Company to end its California operations. Plaque placed by the State Department of Parks and Recreation in cooperation with the Redwood Coast Outpost of the "Westerners", April 17, 1968.
Site information: Golden Gate Park, on J. F. Kennedy Dr near intersection with Nancy Pelosi Dr, San Francisco 37.772291,-122.460102
Plaque text: The Conservatory California's first municipal greenhouse was completed in 1879. It was patterned after The Conservatory, Kew Gardens, England A distinguished example of late Victorian style using early techniques of mass production and assembly of simple glass units.It was given to the City of San Francisco by public-spirited citizens. Plaque placed by the State Department of Parks and Recreation in cooperation with the San Francisco Recreation and Park Commission and California Historical Society, November 19, 1970.
#0861 Site of First California State Fair
Site information: 269 Bush at Montgomery St, San Francisco Nothing remains of this site, as far as I know. 37.790968,-122.401794
Plaque text: Site of First California State Fair California's first state fair was held on this site on October 4, 1854. Sponsored by the California State Agricultural Society, the exhibition of 'horses, cattle, mules, and other stock, and agricultural, mechanical, and domestic manufacture and productions' promoted the new state's growing agricultural industry. A different city held the fair each year, until Sacramento became the permanent location in 1861. Plaque placed by the State Department of Parks and Recreation in cooperation with the Grand Parlor, Native Sons of the Golden West, August 17, 1973.
Plaque information: State plaque located inside the old mint building, which is generally closed to the public.
Plaque text: Old United States Mint The old mint (1869), San Francisco's second, is California's only such federal Greek revival structure, due to unsurpassed productivity, it became a sub-treasury in 1874. Intact after the 1906 disaster, it served as clearning house-bank, thus aiding in the city's reconstruction. Closed in 1937, restored 1972-76 by mint director Mary Brooks. Plaque placed by the State Department of Parks and Recreation in cooperations with the San Francisco Landmarks Preservation Advisory Board, January 28, 1977.
Site information: SE corner of Geary and Stockton Sts, San Francisco Nothing remains of this site, as far as I know. 37.787483,-122.406454
OHP description: It was 1850 when the Verdier brothers, immigrants from France, opened a store aboard the ship La Ville de Paris to serve the Argonauts passing through San Francisco's harbor. In 1896 the business, which stayed in the family for over a century and a quarter, moved into a new building designed by architect Clinton Day, damaged by the 1906 earthquake, its interior was reconstructed by architects John Bakewell and Arthur J. Brown. The old City of Paris building was one of the finest examples of the beaux-arts style of commercial building in California.
#0937 Site of the Invention of the Three-Reel Bell Slot Machine
Site information: Traffic island on N side of Market St between Bush and Battery Sts, San Francisco Nothing remains of this site, as far as I know. 37.791037,-122.399399
Plaque text: Liberty Bell Slot Machine Charles August Fey began inventing and manufacturing slot machines in 1894. Fey pioneered many innovations of coin operated gaming devices in his San Francisco workshop at 406 Market Street, including the original three reel bell slot machine in 1898. The international popularity of the bell slot machine attests to Fey's ingenuity as an enterprising inventor whose basic design of the three reel slot machine continues to be used in mechanical gaming devices today. Plaque placed by the State Department of Parks and Recreation in cooperation with E Clampus Vitus. October 21, 1984.
OHP description: Charles August Fey invented the first coin-operated, three-reel slot machine in San Francisco in 1895. Fey continued to manufacture the popular 'Liberty Bell' gaming devices in a workshop located at 406 Market Street from 1897 to 1906, until the workshop was destroyed by the 1906 earthquake and fire. The international popularity of the bell slot machines attested to Fey's ingenuity as an enterprising inventor whose basic design continues to be used in mechanical gaming devices today.
#0941 Farnsworth's Green Street Lab
Site information: NW corner of Sansome and Green Sts, San Francisco Nothing remains of this site, as far as I know. 37.800376,-122.402754
Plaque text: Farnsworth's Green Street Lab In a simple laboratory on this site, 202 Green Street, Philo Taylor Farnsworth, U.S. pioneer in electronics, invented and patented the first operational all-electronic 'television system.' On September 7,1927 the 21-year-old inventor and several dedicated assistants successfully transmitted the first all-electronic television image, the major breakthrough that brought the practical form of this invention to mankind. Further patents formulated here covered the basic concepts essential to modern television. The genius of Green Street, as he was known, died in 1971. Plaque placed by the State Department of Parks and Recreation in cooperation with the Philo T. Farnsworth Foundation, Inc., September 15, 1981.
#0964 Birthplace of the United Nations, War Memorial Complex
Plaque text: In recognition of the contribution of the facilities of the war memorial veteran's building in San Francisco for the use of the United Nations conference on international organization during the period April 25 to June 26, 1945. This plaque is presented to the city of San Francisco by the Department of State on behalf of the government of the United States. In this building the charter of the United Nations was formulated and signed by the delegates of the fifty participating Nations.
OHP description: President Franklin D. Roosevelt designated the War Memorial Complex in San Francisco to be the place that the United Nations Conderence for Internation Organization would convene on April 25, 1945. Fifty nations participated in the drafting of the United Nations Charter which was unanimously adopted June 25 and signed by representatives of the 50 nations in the War Memorial Veternas Building on June 26. The site of the signing of the Charter is one of the most significant historical landmarks sites in the world for 20th century events.
#0987 Treasure Island - Golden Gate International Exposition, 1939-40
Site information: On lawn at entrance to island, Treasure Island, San Francisco 37.815464,-122.371163
Plaque text: Treasure Island This artificial island was constructed of bay sand in 1936-7 and was the site of the Golden Gate International Exposition, February 18, 1939-September 29, 1940. Tall towers, gigantic goddesses and dazzling lighting effects turned the Island into a "Magic City." The exposition celebrated the ascendancy of California and San Francisco as economic, political and cultural forces in the increasingly important Pacific Region. From 1939 to 1944 the Island was the landing site for flights of the China Clipper. Treasure Island has been a U.S. Naval Station since 1941. Plaque placed by the State Department of Parks and Recreation in cooperation with U.S. Navy, Treasure Island Museum, GGIE Research Associates, and Art Deco Society of California, February 18, 1990.
#1002 Site of the First Dynamite Factory in United States
Plaque text: The First Dynamite Factory in America Giant Powder Company, under personal license of inventor Alfred Nobel, began producing dynamite here on March 19, 1868. On November 26, 1869, a massive explosion leveled the complex's buildings and fences. Giant Powder soon resumed operations in west San Francisco, and moved to its final site at Pt. Pinole in 1892. As a pioneer company, Giant Powder was so influential that "Giant" became synonymous with "dynamite," a vital ingredient for California's early develiopment. Historic site designated May 3, 1991. Plaque placement approved August 17, 2017 as a result of a collaborative effort by the Glen Park Neighborhoods History Project, Twin Peaks Parlor No. 214 of the Native Sons of the Golden West, the Historical Preservation Foundation of the Native Sons of the Golden West, and San Francisco Recreation and Parks.
OHP description: The first commercial manufacturing of dynamite in the U.S. occurred in what is now Glen Canyon Park. On March 19, 1868, the Giant Powder Company began production at its first manufacturing plant, under exclusive license from Alfred Nobel to produce his new explosive in America. The factory did not last long. On November 26, 1869, an explosion completely destroyed the entire facility, turning every one of the buildings on the place, and the surrounding fencing, into "hundreds of pieces," according to a newpaper account. The company moved its operations elsewhere, an action that was to be repeated again in the future under similar circumstances, until it moved to its permanent and final home at Point Pinole on San Pablo Bay.
#1010 Original Site of the Third Baptist Church (Formerly the First Colored Baptist Church)
Site information: SE corner Grant Ave and Greenwich, San Francisco Nothing remains of this site, as far as I know. 37.802376,-122.407885
Plaque text: Original Site of teh Third Baptist Church, The First African American Baptist Church West of the Rocky Mountains In August 1852, Abraham Brown, Thomas Bundy, Thomas Davenport, Willie Denton, Harry Fields, George Lewis, Fielding Spotts, and Eliza and William Davis organized the church in the Davis home. The congregation purchased the old First Baptist Church and moved it to this location in 1854. The church is now located at 1399 McAllister Street. Plaque placed by the State Department of Parks and Recreation in cooperation with the Third Baptist Church, April 9, 1995. Cora Mary Jackson, Church Historian, Dr. Amos C. Brown, Pastor.
#1024 Juana Briones, Pioneer Settler of Yerba Buena
Site information: Washington Square Park, near corner of Stockton and Filbert, San Francisco 37.801124,-122.409539
Plaque text: Juana Briones Y Tapia de Miranda, 1802-1889, North Beach Pioneer Juana Briones, born in Hispanic California, was a prominent woman of her time. In the 1830s and 1840s she transformed an isolated cove in the then Mexican hamlet of Yerba Buena into her rancho. At the site of this park she raised cattle and grew vegetables for sale to ship crews. She gave sanctuary to refugees and was revered as a healer and caregiver. She is honored as a humanitarian, astute businesswoman, community builder, and devoted mother of eight children. Plaque placed by the State Department of Parks and Recreation in cooperation with the San Francisco Recreation and Parks Department, the Women's Heritage Museum, and the Bay Area Network of Latinas, October 6, 1997.
Plaque information: No plaque. There are some informational signs about the area located around the park grounds.
OHP information: The Palace of Fine Arts consists of a building and four structures in a park in the Marina District in San Francisco. Originally conceived in 1913 for the Panama-Pacific International Exposition and completed in 1913, designed by architect Bernard Maybeck as a forgotten and overgrown Roman ruin. Intended as a temporary installation, the citizens of San Francisco engaged in heroic efforts to retain the Palace, the only surviving building of the 1915 exhibition. The Palace quickly became recognized as one of California's most beautiful buildings, despite its lack of function and temporary nature. A long-term project, planned in the 1950s and begun in the 1960s, reconstructed the Palace in its current permanent form, a project completed in 1974.