During the raucous days of Gold Rush era San Francisco, the most wicked part of town became known
as the “Barbary Coast,” the name drawing a colorful similarity to the home of the murderous Barbary Pirates
of North Africa.
This 40-square block area was home to the most incredible concentration of melodeons,
dance halls, grogeries, gambling joints and deadfalls found anywhere. As such, this hotbed of sin, crime
and depravity was an irresistible draw to thirsty and entertainment-starved miners, sailors and countrymen,
all seeking distraction and female companionship. The Barbary Coast became the haunt of an eclectic collection
of harlots, thugs, pimps, thieves, robbers, gamblers, con-men and drunkards.
Yet, the district captured the imagination and the attention of a wide audience with a great taste for “bad things”…
“I have seen purer liqueurs, finer tobaccos, truer guns and pistols, larger dirks and Bowie knifes,
and prettier courtesans, here in San Francisco, than any place I have ever visited; and it is
my unbiased opinion that California can and does furnish the best bad things that are available
in America.”
- Hinton Helper, 1855
But just around the corner, San Francisco was rapidly growing up as a vibrant and prosperous city, filled
with business innovators, government leaders and literary and entertainment luminaries. To celebrate the
colorful history of early San Francisco, and the many people that contributed to it, local historian
Daniel Bacon, in collaboration with the San Francisco Museum and Historical Society, has created the Barbary Coast Trail. Marked by 180 bronze medallions, this route winds through the streets of
San Francisco, passing through historical neighborhoods from the Old Mint to Aquatic Park.
An now, to enjoy this historical trail in a new way, the San Francisco Museum and Historical Society
is sponsoring an event for all who wish to get into the streets and experience history
first-hand, the Barbary Coast Trail Walk.
Actions Past is proud to join with the Museum to bring a special touch to the event, and exercise
our passion for historical reenacting. Walkers on the route will actually have the opportunity to meet
“in person” many of San Francisco’s notable (and notorious) residents who once inhabited the environs
of the Barbary Coast!
If you are interested in learning more about our reenactment please read the Event Plan or send an email
message to the director.