San Francisco's North Beach and Telegraph Hill

North Beach and Telegraph Hill are among San Francisco's most charming and historic districts. In the early years, Mexican and Spanish settlements dotted the beach and the hill, but the area was heavily developed during California's Gold Rush as gold seekers flooded the city. Later, European immigrants added many layers of unique character. North Beach was home to A. P. Giannini, founder of the Bank of Italy (later the Bank of America), and in the 1950s, the Beat Generation evolved from the creative character of this artistic neighborhood. Charming cottages and architectural gems, such as famed landmark Coit Tower, decorate the slopes down to the bay, delighting residents and tourists alike. Many cafs and restaurants offer delicious foods, while the breathtaking views provide food for the soul.

In this volume, native San Francisco resident Catherine A. Accardi presents a noteworthy collection of vintage photographs of this city's North Beach and Telegraph Hill districts. These distinctive images have been gathered from the San Francisco History Center at the San Francisco main library, the J. B. Monaco archives, and other local collections for a unique depiction of these distinctive San Francisco neighborhoods.