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Landing Place of Captain J. B. Montgomery

Step back in time at the Landing Place of Captain J. B. Montgomery, where the American flag was first raised in San Francisco, marking a pivotal moment in the city's history and future.

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Commemorating a pivotal moment in San Francisco's history, the Landing Place of Captain J. B. Montgomery marks the spot where, on July 9, 1846, Commander John B. Montgomery of the U.S. Sloop-of-War Portsmouth landed to raise the American flag, claiming Yerba Buena (present-day San Francisco) for the United States. This event, which occurred when the water came up to Montgomery Street, signified the end of Mexican rule and the beginning of a new era for the city. Today, a commemorative plaque at the southeast corner of Montgomery and Clay Streets serves as a reminder of this historic occasion. The site is located in the heart of the Financial District, surrounded by modern skyscrapers, offering a stark contrast between the city's past and present. A visit provides a brief but meaningful glimpse into the origins of San Francisco and its transformation from a small settlement to a major metropolis. The landmark is easily accessible and offers a moment of reflection amidst the bustling cityscape.

A brief summary to California Historical Landmark 81: Landing Place of Captain J. B. Montgomery

  • QHVW+VR, San Francisco, Financial District, California, 94111, US

Local tips

  • Visit Portsmouth Square, a short walk from the landmark, to see where the American flag was first raised by Captain Montgomery.
  • Take a moment to appreciate the contrast between the historical plaque and the modern architecture of the surrounding Financial District.
  • Explore the nearby Wells Fargo History Museum to delve deeper into San Francisco's Gold Rush era and its impact on the city.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From the Montgomery Street BART or Muni Metro station, walk north on Montgomery Street for approximately two blocks. The landmark is located at the southeast corner of Montgomery and Clay Streets. A single ride on Muni costs $3.00, or $2.50 if using a Clipper card or the MuniMobile app.

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    Request a taxi or ride-share to the intersection of Montgomery and Clay Streets in the Financial District. Be aware that traffic can be heavy during peak hours. A short ride within the Financial District typically costs between $10 and $15, depending on demand.

  • Walking

    If you are already in the Financial District or nearby Union Square, the landmark is easily accessible on foot. Head towards the intersection of Montgomery and Clay Streets. Look for the commemorative plaque on the corner of the building.

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Discover more about California Historical Landmark 81: Landing Place of Captain J. B. Montgomery

The Landing Place of Captain J. B. Montgomery, designated as California Historical Landmark 81, commemorates a defining moment in San Francisco's transformation from a small Mexican settlement to a major American city. On the morning of July 9, 1846, Commander John Berrien Montgomery, captain of the U.S. Sloop-of-War Portsmouth, led a detachment of U.S. Marines and sailors ashore at Yerba Buena, now known as San Francisco. With no resistance, they raised the American flag in the plaza, now Portsmouth Square, effectively claiming the territory for the United States. At the time of Montgomery's landing, Yerba Buena was a remote outpost with a population of approximately 450 residents. The landing site itself was located near the foot of what is now Montgomery Street, a location that, according to historical accounts, was on the waterfront. The U.S.S. Portsmouth had been ordered to take possession of Yerba Buena and the northern frontier. Montgomery's force consisted of a company of marines and a few sailors. The plaza where the flag was raised became the central hub of the burgeoning city during the Gold Rush era. Montgomery Street quickly evolved into the financial center of the West. Captain Montgomery's actions were part of a broader strategy to secure California for the United States during the Mexican-American War. The capture of Yerba Buena was strategically important due to its harbor, which offered a valuable base for American naval operations in the Pacific. Following the annexation, Yerba Buena was renamed San Francisco in 1847, reflecting its growing importance as a port and commercial center. Today, the original shoreline has long since been filled in, and the Landing Place of Captain Montgomery is situated several blocks inland from the current waterfront. The location is marked by a plaque at 552 Montgomery Street, on the southeast corner of Montgomery and Clay Streets, embedded in the cornerstone of what was once A.P. Giannini's Bank of Italy building. The Transamerica Pyramid, an iconic San Francisco skyscraper, stands on the northeast corner of the intersection, creating a striking juxtaposition of historical significance and modern architecture. Visiting the Landing Place of Captain Montgomery offers a chance to reflect on the city's origins and its rapid growth. While the site itself is unassuming, its historical importance is undeniable. Standing at the corner of Montgomery and Clay, one can imagine the scene on that July morning in 1846, when the American flag was raised and a new chapter in San Francisco's history began. The area surrounding the landmark is a vibrant mix of office buildings, shops, and restaurants, reflecting the city's status as a major economic and cultural hub. The plaque itself provides a concise summary of the event, noting that Montgomery landed near this spot to raise the Stars and Stripes on the Plaza, now Portsmouth Square. The Native Sons of the Golden West placed the tablet in 1915. The site serves as a reminder of the complex history of California and the United States, including the displacement of indigenous populations and the impact of American expansionism. While in the area, visitors can explore other nearby historical landmarks and attractions, such as Portsmouth Square, the site of the original flag raising, and the Transamerica Pyramid, an architectural icon of the city. The Financial District itself is a testament to San Francisco's economic power and its role as a global center of commerce. The Landing Place of Captain J. B. Montgomery is more than just a historical marker; it is a symbol of the city's transformation, its connection to the past, and its enduring spirit of innovation and progress. A visit to this site offers a unique perspective on San Francisco's rich and multifaceted history. Consider taking a stroll through the Financial District to appreciate the blend of historic buildings and modern skyscrapers. Explore Portsmouth Square, the site of the original flag raising, and imagine what the area looked like in 1846. Visit the nearby Wells Fargo History Museum to learn more about the Gold Rush era and its impact on San Francisco. Take a guided walking tour of the Financial District to discover hidden gems and learn about the area's architectural history. Enjoy a meal at one of the many restaurants in the area, offering a diverse range of cuisines. Take advantage of public transportation to explore other parts of San Francisco, such as Fisherman's Wharf, Golden Gate Park, and Alcatraz Island. The Landing Place of Captain J. B. Montgomery is a reminder of the city's past and its enduring spirit of innovation and progress. A visit to this site offers a unique perspective on San Francisco's rich and multifaceted history. It is a place where the past and present converge, inviting visitors to reflect on the city's journey and its place in the world.

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