List of Landmarks and Historic Places in San Francisco facts for kids
San Francisco, California, is a city full of amazing history! From famous buildings to important bridges, many places here are protected as historic landmarks. These special spots help us remember the past and understand how the city grew. This article shares a list of these important places, recognized by national, state, and local groups.
Contents
What Are Historic Landmarks?
Historic landmarks are places, buildings, or structures that are important because of their history, architecture, or culture. They are officially recognized and protected so future generations can enjoy and learn from them. Think of them as time capsules that tell stories about the past.
National Historic Places: Protecting America's Past
The United States government recognizes places that are important to the whole country. These national lists help protect sites that tell America's story.
National Historic Landmarks: Top Tier Sites
The National Historic Landmark program identifies places with exceptional national importance. San Francisco has 18 of these very special landmarks. These sites are considered the best examples of American history and culture.
National Register of Historic Places: A Wider Net
The National Register of Historic Places is the official list of the nation's historic places. It includes districts, sites, buildings, structures, and objects. San Francisco has 182 places on this list. Being on the National Register helps protect these sites and can offer support for their preservation.
Engineering Marvels: ASCE and ASME Landmarks
Some landmarks are recognized for their amazing engineering. The ASCE and the ASME (American Society of Mechanical Engineers) honor structures that show incredible design and construction. San Francisco is home to 3 ASCE Civil Engineering Landmarks and 3 ASME Mechanical Engineering Landmarks. These include bridges, buildings, or machines that changed how we build things.
California's Own History: State Landmarks
California also has its own list of important historic places. These sites tell the story of the Golden State.
California Historical Landmarks: State's Special Spots
The California Historical Landmarks program identifies places that are important to California's history. San Francisco has 48 sites on this list. These landmarks help us understand the state's unique past, from its early days to more recent events.
San Francisco's Local Gems: City Landmarks
The city of San Francisco also protects its own historic places. These local landmarks are important to the community and the city's unique character.
San Francisco Designated Landmarks: City's Special Spots
The city of San Francisco has officially recognized 261 Designated Landmarks. These are individual buildings or sites that the city wants to protect. They often have special architectural features or played a key role in local history.
Landmark Districts: Protecting Whole Neighborhoods
Sometimes, it's not just one building that's important, but a whole area. San Francisco has 12 Landmark Districts. These districts are groups of buildings or neighborhoods that have a shared history or architectural style. Protecting a district helps keep the unique feel of an entire area.
See also
External Lists
- National Park Service National Historic Landmarks Program
- National Park Service National Register of Historic Places
- California State Parks Office of Historic Preservation
- San Francisco Planning Department Historic Preservation
