At Mission and Spear streets in San Francisco, Rincon Center incorporates the former Rincon Annex Post Office, built in 1938. Its Streamline Moderne design is worth a look, but the main stop is the lobby, where murals by Anton Refregier portray California history. The building once handled postal operations and was later preserved through community efforts. Visit on a weekday if you also want to find more activity and food options inside the center.
A former post office preserved
Designed by Gilbert Underwood, the Rincon Annex was built in 1938 as a post office. Its Streamline Moderne architecture gives the building a distinct place in San Francisco’s architectural history.
Changes in postal operations and the possibility of demolition threatened the building. Community efforts helped preserve it, and the former post office is now part of Rincon Center.
Anton Refregier’s murals
The lobby murals by Anton Refregier depict California’s history. They are part of the federal art created through the Works Progress Administration, and can be seen inside the historic building. Take time in the lobby to look at the scenes and their colors.
Preguntas frecuentes
What do the murals at Rincon Center depict?
Anton Refregier’s murals in the lobby portray California’s history.
What architectural style is Rincon Center known for?
The former Rincon Annex Post Office is built in the Streamline Moderne style.
Was Rincon Center originally a post office?
Yes. The Rincon Annex was built as a post office in 1938 and is now part of Rincon Center.
