Lotta’s Fountain stands at Market, Geary and Kearny streets in San Francisco. Donated by performer Lotta Crabtree and built in 1875, it is one of the city’s few pre-earthquake structures still in its original location. After the 1906 earthquake and fire, survivors gathered here to find one another. The fountain remains a place of remembrance, with an annual ceremony for earthquake victims and survivors on April 18 at 5:12 a.m. Pause to look at the monument and consider its place in the city’s history.
A fountain donated by Lotta Crabtree
Lotta’s Fountain was built in 1875 and donated by Lotta Crabtree, a performer who became one of the wealthiest entertainers of the late 19th century. The monument stands at Market, Geary and Kearny streets, where it has remained in its original location.
Crabtree’s gift links the fountain to a particular chapter of San Francisco’s public history. Take a moment to learn about her before or during your visit; her donation is part of the story behind this street-corner landmark.
A meeting point after the 1906 earthquake
After the 1906 earthquake and fire, survivors gathered at the fountain as an informal meeting point. Its role in those days made it a place associated with both the disaster and the people who came together in its aftermath.
Lotta’s Fountain is one of the few structures from before the earthquake that still stands in its original location. Seeing it in the middle of the city gives you a direct point of connection to San Francisco’s past.
The April 18 remembrance
Each year, a ceremony takes place at the fountain on April 18 at 5:12 a.m. It honors those who died in the earthquake as well as the survivors. If you want to attend, plan to arrive early for the ceremony.
At other times, the fountain is a short historical stop at the intersection of Market, Geary and Kearny streets. Union Square is nearby, so you can combine the visit with time in the surrounding area.
Perguntas frequentes
Where is Lotta’s Fountain?
It stands at Market, Geary and Kearny streets in San Francisco.
When is the annual remembrance ceremony?
The ceremony is held on April 18 at 5:12 a.m. to honor earthquake victims and survivors.
Why is Lotta’s Fountain historically significant?
Built in 1875, it became a meeting point for survivors after the 1906 earthquake and fire. It is one of San Francisco’s few pre-earthquake structures still in its original location.
Is the entrance wheelchair accessible?
Yes, the entrance is wheelchair accessible.
