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Welcome to The San Francisco Newsletter!

In today’s edition:

• Private school operator acquires one-time Airbnb headquarters for $23.5 million.

• Upcoming San Francisco Giants match

• A deep dive into the life of John McLaren

• And more…

Quote of the Week

“Do the best you can until you know better. Then when you know better, do better.”

–Maya Angelou

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San Francisco Trivia

Here is your trivia question of the week. The answer will be shown in next week’s newsletter. Which do you think it is? No cheating!

What major event significantly reshaped San Francisco’s urban landscape in 1906?

A) The California Gold Rush

B) The Great San Francisco Earthquake and Fire

C) The opening of the Golden Gate Bridge

D) The founding of the United Nations

Answer to Last Week's Trivia: The iconic San Francisco landmark known for its historical sea lions that reside on the docks is B) Pier 39.

The Best Stories of the Week

💼 Business

Exclusive: Goldman Sachs and Ballast Investments surrender some 1,200 San Francisco apartments to lender. (Link)

S.F. hospitality workers to vote on strike authorization as hotel contract negotiations heat up. (Link)

🏒 Sports

Controversial ex-SF Giant hits game-winning HR as a Dodger against old team. (Link)

Doyle hits 1st career grand slam, Rockies tie franchise record for runs in 20-7 win over Red Sox. (Link)

🏦 Finance

Private school operator acquires one-time Airbnb headquarters for $23.5 million. (Link)

Upcoming Events

Here are some events that are happening in our city this week. There is a good mix between sports, entertainment, conferences, concerts, and more.

Sports

⚾ Oakland Athletics at San Francisco Giants
Oracle Park, San Francisco
Tuesday, July 30 to Wednesday, July 31, 2024 | (More info)

⚾ Detroit Tigers at San Francisco Giants
Oracle Park, San Francisco, CA
Friday, August 9 to Sunday, August 11, 2024 | (More info)

Music & Concerts

🎵 Gary Wilson
Kilowatt, San Francisco
Wednesday, July 31, 2024 | (More info)

🎵 DJ Qbert
Great American Music Hall, San Francisco
Thursday, August 1, 2024 | (More info)

Family

📚 Bean Sprout Family Days @ the Botanical Garden
John Muir Nature Trail, 1515 Lincoln Way, San Francisco
Friday, August 2, 2024 | (More info)

Image of the Week

Every week, I have a habit of making some AI art about our city.

This week, I typed in “San Francisco with a complex system of waterways and canals” and this is what I got.

Let me know what ideas you have for this. I really enjoy making these types of photos.

San Francisco History

1993: The Battle of the Bay World Series, interrupted by the Loma Prieta earthquake.

In 1989, the Battle of the Bay World Series between the San Francisco Giants and the Oakland Athletics was dramatically interrupted by the devastating Loma Prieta earthquake. The earthquake struck the San Francisco Bay Area just moments before Game 3 of the World Series was set to begin, causing widespread chaos and destruction. The quake claimed 63 lives, injured nearly 4,000, and caused extensive damage, altering the Bay Area landscape and leaving a lasting impact on the community.

The interruption of the World Series due to the Loma Prieta earthquake postponed the games for 10 days, as the Bay Area grappled with the aftermath of the disaster. The quake not only shook buildings from their foundations and flattened a stretch of freeway in Oakland but also dislodged a section of the Bay Bridge. The impact of the earthquake was felt far beyond the baseball field, as it brought the community together in the face of tragedy and highlighted the resilience of the Bay Area residents.

The Battle of the Bay World Series, interrupted by the Loma Prieta earthquake, remains a significant event in the history of San Francisco and the Bay Area. The quake's terrifying impact and the subsequent postponement of the World Series games serve as a reminder of the resilience and strength of the community in the face of adversity, and the lasting impact of natural disasters on the region.

Famous San Franciscans

John McLaren - Superintendent of the Golden Gate Park for 53 years.

John Hays McLaren (1846–1943) was a Scottish-born American horticulturist who served as the superintendent of the Golden Gate Park in San Francisco, California for 56 years. His legacy is marked by his significant contributions to the development and beautification of the park, as well as his impact on the city of San Francisco. Here is a comprehensive biography of John McLaren, highlighting his life, achievements, and lasting influence.

Early Life and Horticultural Passion (1846-1869)

John Hays McLaren was born in 1846, at Bannockburn, near Stirling in Scotland. His early years were marked by a deep connection to nature, and he worked as a dairyman before pursuing his passion for horticulture. McLaren's love for plants and landscapes began to take root during his formative years, setting the stage for his future endeavors in the field of horticulture.

Journey to San Francisco (1870-1890)

In 1870, McLaren made the life-changing decision to move to San Francisco, California, where he would leave an indelible mark on the city's landscape. His arrival in San Francisco marked the beginning of a lifelong commitment to transforming the city's public spaces and creating green havens for its residents to enjoy.

Superintendent of Golden Gate Park (1890-1943)

McLaren's most enduring legacy lies in his role as the superintendent of the Golden Gate Park, a position he held for an impressive 53 years. During his tenure, McLaren's visionary leadership and horticultural expertise shaped the park into a lush and vibrant urban oasis, earning him the title of father of San Francisco's public parks.

Transformation of Golden Gate Park (1890s-1930s)

Under McLaren's guidance, Golden Gate Park underwent a remarkable transformation, with the introduction of diverse plant species, scenic pathways, and picturesque landscapes. His meticulous attention to detail and dedication to preserving the park's natural beauty earned him widespread admiration and respect from the residents of San Francisco.

Legacy of Tree Planting (Late 19th Century)

One of McLaren's most notable achievements was his dedication to tree planting. He is credited with planting over two million trees in the city's parks, a staggering feat that has left an enduring mark on San Francisco's urban environment. McLaren's commitment to greenery and sustainability continues to enrich the city's landscape to this day.

McLaren's Influence on San Francisco (1890s-1940s)

McLaren's impact extended beyond the confines of Golden Gate Park, as he played a pivotal role in shaping the overall aesthetic and environmental consciousness of San Francisco. His efforts to create green spaces and promote environmental stewardship have left an indelible imprint on the city's identity and culture.

McLaren's Connection to San Francisco (1890s-1940s)

McLaren's deep connection to San Francisco was evident in his unwavering dedication to enhancing the city's natural beauty. His tireless work and passion for horticulture endeared him to the residents of San Francisco, who celebrated his contributions and regarded him as a beloved figure in the community.

McLaren's Enduring Legacy (1943 and Beyond)

John Hays McLaren's legacy lives on through the lush landscapes of Golden Gate Park and the countless trees that stand as a testament to his vision and dedication. His impact on San Francisco's urban environment continues to be felt, inspiring future generations to appreciate and preserve the city's natural treasures.

Key Achievements of John Hays McLaren:

• Served as the superintendent of the Golden Gate Park for 53 years, transforming it into a vibrant urban oasis.

• Credited with planting over two million trees in San Francisco's parks, leaving a lasting legacy of greenery and sustainability.

• Played a pivotal role in shaping the overall aesthetic and environmental consciousness of San Francisco.

• Revered as the father of San Francisco's public parks, earning affection and gratitude from the city's residents.

• His enduring influence continues to enrich the city's landscape and inspire a commitment to environmental stewardship.

John Hays McLaren's story is one of unwavering dedication, visionary leadership, and a profound love for nature. His remarkable contributions to San Francisco's public spaces and urban environment have left an indelible mark, ensuring that his legacy will be cherished for generations to come.

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-Matthew Larsen

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