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California Historical Landmark 192: Jenny Lind Theatre Site

Discover the historical echoes of San Francisco's theatrical past at the site of the Jenny Lind Theatre and early City Hall, now a landmark in the heart of vibrant Chinatown.

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Step back in time at the site of California Historical Landmark 192, once home to the Jenny Lind Theatre and San Francisco's City Hall. Located in the heart of Chinatown, this historical marker commemorates a vibrant past. The Jenny Lind Theatre, named to evoke elegance, saw three iterations, all built by Tom Maguire, before the city purchased the third to serve as its City Hall in 1852. Though the theater hosted various performances, the famed Jenny Lind never graced its stage. Today, a Hilton Hotel stands on the site, a testament to the area's continuous evolution, blending historical significance with modern urban life. Explore the surrounding Chinatown, a bustling neighborhood with rich culture and culinary delights, making it a must-see destination for history buffs and curious travelers alike.

A brief summary to California Historical Landmark 192: Site of the Jenny Lind Theatre and San Francisco City Hall

  • QHWW+34, San Francisco, Chinatown, California, 94111, US

Local tips

  • Explore Portsmouth Square, the historic heart of San Francisco, located near the landmark, to immerse yourself in the city's early history.
  • Visit the nearby Chinese Historical Society of America to learn about the rich history and culture of San Francisco's Chinatown.
  • Sample authentic dim sum and explore traditional shops in Chinatown for a taste of local culture.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    For the final approach to the California Historical Landmark 192 site, located in Chinatown, public transportation offers several convenient options. From the Montgomery Street BART station, walk north on Montgomery or Sansome Street until you reach Bush Street, then turn left towards the Chinatown Gate. Turn right on Grant Avenue to enter Chinatown. Alternatively, take the Muni Metro T Third Street line to the Chinatown - Rose Pak Station, which places you directly in the heart of Chinatown, a short walk from the landmark site. A single ride on Muni costs $2.50, while BART fares vary depending on the distance traveled.

  • Walking

    If you are already in the vicinity of the Financial District or North Beach, walking is a viable option. From Portsmouth Square, head east on Clay Street, then turn right onto Kearny Street. The landmark site is located on Kearny Street near Merchant Street. The walk is relatively short and allows you to experience the vibrant atmosphere of Chinatown.

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    For a direct and convenient approach, especially from other parts of San Francisco, a taxi or ride-sharing service (Uber/Lyft) is a good choice. Simply input "750 Kearny Street, San Francisco" as your destination. Be aware that traffic in Chinatown can be congested, particularly during peak hours. A short ride from Union Square typically costs between $15 and $20, depending on traffic and demand.

  • Driving

    Driving to the landmark site is possible, but parking in Chinatown can be challenging and expensive. Street parking is limited and subject to time restrictions. Several parking garages are available, including the Portsmouth Square Plaza Garage (733 Kearny Street) and the Sutter Stockton Garage (444 Stockton Street). Hourly rates typically range from $4 to $6, with daily maximums around $30-$36. Consider reserving a parking spot in advance using online parking apps to secure a space and potentially save money.

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Discover more about California Historical Landmark 192: Site of the Jenny Lind Theatre and San Francisco City Hall

California Historical Landmark 192 marks the location of the Jenny Lind Theatre and a former San Francisco City Hall, a site steeped in the city's dynamic history. Situated in the vibrant heart of modern-day Chinatown, this landmark offers a glimpse into San Francisco's past, a time of rapid growth, theatrical flair, and civic evolution. The story begins with the Jenny Lind Theatre, a venture by entrepreneur Tom Maguire. Maguire, aiming to bring elegance to San Francisco's burgeoning entertainment scene, named the theatre after the celebrated Swedish opera singer Jenny Lind, though she never actually performed there. The original theatre was built above Maguire's Parker House Hotel and Saloon. The first two iterations of the Jenny Lind Theatre met unfortunate ends, destroyed by fires in 1851 that ravaged parts of the city. Undeterred, Maguire rebuilt each time, showcasing his commitment to San Francisco's cultural life. The third Jenny Lind Theatre, opened on October 4, 1851, was a grand affair, boasting exquisite interiors and a seating capacity of over two thousand. It quickly became a premier venue for theatrical performances, rivaling the best theatres on the East Coast. However, its life as a theatre was short-lived. In 1852, facing financial difficulties, Maguire sold the theatre to the City of San Francisco for $200,000. The city then converted the building into its City Hall. This purchase, however, was not without controversy. Dubbed the "Jenny Lind Swindle" by some, the transaction sparked public debate and accusations of corruption. Nevertheless, the former theatre served as San Francisco's City Hall until the completion of a new building at Larkin and McAllister streets in the 1870s. The location at 750 Kearny Street, between Washington and Merchant Streets, placed the City Hall on the east side of Portsmouth Square, then the heart of San Francisco's civic and social life. The city's tenure in the Jenny Lind Theatre building was also relatively brief. By the late 19th century, San Francisco had constructed a more permanent City Hall at Larkin and Grove Streets. This grand structure, completed in 1897 after nearly three decades of construction, stood for only nine years before being destroyed in the devastating 1906 earthquake and fire. Today, the site of the Jenny Lind Theatre and former City Hall is occupied by a Hilton Hotel. While no physical remnants of the theatre or early City Hall remain, the California Historical Landmark plaque serves as a reminder of the site's rich history. The surrounding Chinatown neighborhood adds another layer of cultural significance, making this a compelling destination for those interested in San Francisco's past. Visiting this landmark offers a unique opportunity to reflect on the city's early days, its theatrical beginnings, and its struggles with civic governance. While the Jenny Lind Theatre may be long gone, its story continues to resonate, reminding us of the ever-changing landscape of San Francisco. To fully appreciate the historical context, consider exploring nearby Portsmouth Square, the heart of early San Francisco. Once known as the Plaza, this square witnessed many pivotal events in the city's history, including the raising of the American flag in 1846 and the announcement of the gold discovery in 1848. Chinatown itself is a vibrant and bustling neighborhood, offering a rich tapestry of culture, cuisine, and commerce. Wander through its narrow streets, sample delicious dim sum, and explore traditional shops. The neighborhood's history is deeply intertwined with the story of San Francisco, and a visit to Chinatown provides a fascinating glimpse into the lives of Chinese immigrants who helped shape the city. The California Historical Landmark program, established in 1931, recognizes sites, buildings, and events of statewide significance. Landmark 192, the Site of the Jenny Lind Theatre and San Francisco City Hall, stands as a testament to the city's colorful past, its theatrical roots, and its enduring spirit of reinvention. While the physical structures may have disappeared, the stories they hold continue to captivate and inspire.

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