Presidio Park, Old Town San Diego

Once celebrated as the "Plymouth Rock of the West Coast," Presidio Park has become a desolate, unwelcoming place with few visitors today. A designated National Historic Landmark, this quiet and unassuming spot was the original location of the 1769 Spanish expedition's first Mission in Alta California, leading eventually to the development of Old Town, the port, and greater city of San Diego. Another layer of historical depth was added in the early 1900s when San Diego civic leader and preservationist George Marston purchased the land for a park, donated it to the city, and hired San Diego Master Architect William Templeton Johnson to design the iconic Junípero Serra Museum that crowns the park's hilltop.

For over a decade, Presidio Park has been massively underutilized and its upkeep neglected for a site of such profound historical significance. However, important steps have been accomplished recently to help improve its visual appeal, notably restoration of the Serra Museum's prominent southwest façade. Additionally, Parish Rye, a City of San Diego Park Ranger, has compiled an invaluable historic plant survey to aid in protecting, restoring, and maintaining the landscape that is meant to be lush and varied.

SOHO welcomes these signs of progress and looks to the City and to District 3 Councilmember Chris Ward to continue diligently working on increased maintenance and improved public access. Presidio Park deserves to be honored as the birthplace of our great city and state. San Diego flourishes on the thousands of visitors who come here each year, and this significant park should be at the top of the City's promotional list rather than a neglected afterthought.

Join us in urging Mayor Kevin Faulconer (kevinfaulconer@sandiego.gov) and District 3 Councilmember Chris Ward (ChristopherWard@sandiego.gov) to continue the progress and greater focus on the care and appreciation of this unique National Historic Landmark we are fortunate to call our own.

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C. 1970s, thriving and filled with visitors.

Current photos by Sandé Lollis

2022 | 2021

2020

2019

Newly Added

• La Playa Piers
• Pottery Canyon Kiln

Remaining from past years

• Barrett Ranch House
• Big Stone Lodge
• Granger Hall
• Hillcrest Commercial Core
• Presidio Park
• Red Roost & Red Rest bungalows
• San Diego Stadium

Saved/Removed from the list

• Balboa Park
• Villa Montezuma

2018 | 2017 | 2016

2015 | 2014 | 2013 | 2012 | 2011

2010 | 2009 | 2008 | 2007 | 2006

2005 | 2004 | 2003 | 2002 | 2001

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