san francisco | san francisco history

The history of San Francisco is rich with tradition and culture. Since its beginning, San Francisco has truly been a city of undeterred human spirit. The city as we know it was discovered by Spanish missionaries and explorer's beginning in 1542. The native peoples, known as the Ohlone, and their way of life, were almost extinct by 1776 when the historic Mission Dolores was built; it still stands today on the corner of 16th  and Dolores Streets. 1848 marked the discovery of gold in California, creating a massive expansion into San Francisco; the influx of people has been steady ever since. The railroad brought even more diversity to the Bay Area through Chinese laborers and Irish and Italian immigrants made their way to the Golden City and prospered in the fishing trade; all drawn to California by the US's promise of the American Dream.

Devastated by the 1906 earthquake, San Franciscans rebuilt their city within a short 9 years; in time to host the Panama-Pacific International Exposition  of 1915. The Loma Prieta earthquake of 1989 shook the city once again, reminding San Francisco that change is the only constant and life precious; again San Francisco quickly rebuilt.

San Francisco is definitely one of the most popular destinations in our country.  Surrounded by water and punctuated by the striking architecture of the Bay and Golden Gate Bridges, San Francisco is blessed with both big panoramic views and unexpected vignettes.  The foggy romantic nights, mild climate and the clang of cable cars are just a few of the trademarks that make this city so beautiful and desirable. The days are filled with events and happenings while the nights showcase the cutting-edge developments of the  lively art community.

Because of its reputation of acceptance and tolerance and its cosmopolitan and free-spirited feel, a significant portion of today's San Franciscans are transplants from other parts of the country and the world.  The mixing of diverse peoples has lead to the defined and very individual neighborhoods that make up the city.  These distinct neighborhoods afford San Francisco a tight-knit community feel within  big city walls.

For more detailed San Francisco history, you can visit the San Francisco Historical Society's excellent site at www.sfhistory.org. Their site is filled with information and links to other sites that offer hidden historic treasures about San Francisco. You can also reach them at (415) 775-1111. Have fun!