Name: Coit Tower
Address: 1 Telegraph Hill Blvd, San Francisco, CA 94133
Telephone: (415) 831-2700
Rating: 4.5

Storied 1930s-era building known for its WPA murals, 360-degree views & resident flock of parrots.

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Coit Tower was built with a third of Lillie Hitchcock Coit's fortune, a wealthy socialite who loved San Francisco and its firefighters.

Lillie's Legacy

Lillie's bequest, worth almost 2 million dollars today, was used to build Coit Tower and a monument to firefighters in Washington Square.

A Generous Gift

The tower's vertical design and fluted look were chosen to make a bold statement within a small space and budget, while complementing the hill's proportions.

Design Choice

The difference in diameter between the top and bottom of the tower is only 18 inches, giving it a slender and elegant appearance.

Skinny Tower

The interior murals were created during the Great Depression as part of the Public Works of Art Project, employing out-of-work artists and depicting social themes.

Murals of the Times

Coit Tower, a 210-foot concrete column, graces the summit of Telegraph Hill in San Francisco. Built in 1933 with a bequest from socialite Lillie Hitchcock Coit, the tower serves as a beacon for the city and a testament to Coit's love for San Francisco. Its observation deck offers breathtaking 360-degree views of the city and bay, encompassing iconic landmarks like the Golden Gate Bridge, Alcatraz, and the Bay Bridge.

The tower's interior boasts a collection of murals painted by 26 artists during the Depression era. These murals, depicting life in California, are a testament to the Public Works of Art Project, a precursor to the WPA. The murals sparked controversy due to their radical content, leading to censorship and a temporary closure of the tower.

Coit Tower's unique design, often mistaken for a fire hose nozzle, is a tribute to Coit's admiration for the city's firefighters. The tower stands as a symbol of San Francisco's resilience and artistic spirit, attracting visitors from around the world.

Beyond its panoramic views and historical significance, Coit Tower offers a glimpse into the city's vibrant art scene. The murals, with their bold social commentary, reflect the turbulent times of the Depression and the struggles of working-class Californians. They serve as a reminder of the power of art to spark dialogue and challenge societal norms.

Coit Tower, a testament to San Francisco's beauty and history, continues to captivate visitors with its stunning views, captivating murals, and unique architectural design. It stands as a symbol of the city's spirit, a place where art, history, and breathtaking vistas converge.

Introduction

Coit Tower, a San Francisco landmark, has a controversial history intertwined with its artistic and architectural significance. The tower's construction was funded by Lillie Hitchcock Coit, a wealthy socialite and patron of the arts, who bequeathed a third of her estate to beautify the city. However, the tower's design, a stark white concrete cylinder, was met with criticism from the public, who found it too modern and out of place in the city's traditional architecture.

The controversy surrounding Coit Tower deepened when the murals inside the tower were unveiled. Commissioned by the Public Works of Art Project during the Great Depression, the murals depicted scenes of labor, industry, and social justice, which were considered radical and subversive by some. The murals sparked heated debates about the role of art in public spaces and the appropriateness of government-funded art projects.

Furthermore, the tower's location on Telegraph Hill, a historically working-class neighborhood, added to the controversy. Some residents felt that the tower was a symbol of gentrification and displacement, as it was built on the site of a former saloon and brothel. The tower's association with the wealthy Coit and the controversial murals further fueled these sentiments.

Despite the controversy, Coit Tower has become an iconic symbol of San Francisco. Its unique design and controversial history have made it a popular tourist destination and a subject of ongoing debate and discussion. The tower stands as a testament to the city's complex and evolving history, reflecting the tensions between tradition and modernity, art and politics, and wealth and inequality.

Controversial History

Coit Tower: A Beacon of Hope for San Francisco's Volunteer Firefighters

For San Francisco's valiant volunteer firefighters, Coit Tower stands as a symbol of their unwavering dedication and sacrifice. Built in 1933 with funds bequeathed by Lillie Hitchcock Coit, a wealthy socialite and patron of the city's firefighters, the tower serves as a poignant reminder of the crucial role these brave men and women played in safeguarding the city.

The murals adorning the tower's interior walls further solidify its connection to the city's firefighting history. Painted by renowned artists like Diego Rivera and Bernard Zakheim, these murals depict scenes of heroism and resilience, showcasing the firefighters' unwavering commitment to protecting lives and property. One particularly striking mural, titled "The City Fire," vividly portrays the devastating 1906 earthquake and fire, a testament to the firefighters' unwavering courage in the face of disaster.

Beyond its symbolic significance, Coit Tower also served as a practical lookout point for the city's volunteer firefighters. Its elevated position provided a panoramic view of the city, allowing firefighters to quickly identify and respond to fires. The tower's distinctive white exterior and powerful searchlights further aided in their efforts, ensuring they could be readily seen and heard throughout the city.

Today, Coit Tower remains a cherished landmark for San Francisco's firefighters, both past and present. It stands as a testament to their unwavering dedication, bravery, and sacrifice, reminding all who gaze upon it of the vital role they play in keeping the city safe. For the city's volunteer firefighters, Coit Tower is not just a monument, but a beacon of hope, a symbol of their unwavering commitment to serving and protecting their community.

Volunteer Firefighters

Coit Tower: A Beacon of Art Deco in San Francisco

Rising 210 feet above Telegraph Hill, Coit Tower stands as a testament to the Art Deco movement in San Francisco. Completed in 1933, the tower's cylindrical form, setbacks, and geometric ornamentation are quintessential features of the style. Its white exterior, accented by black trim, creates a striking contrast against the city skyline.

The tower's most notable Art Deco element is its intricate murals, which adorn the interior walls of the ground floor. These murals, painted by 27 different artists, depict scenes of California life during the Depression era. The murals are a unique blend of realism and Art Deco stylization, showcasing the diversity of artistic expression within the movement.

The tower's design also incorporates other Art Deco motifs, including stylized eagles, sunbursts, and geometric patterns. The observation deck, accessible by elevator, offers panoramic views of the city, further emphasizing the tower's role as a landmark and symbol of San Francisco's Art Deco heritage.

Coit Tower's construction was funded by Lillie Hitchcock Coit, a wealthy socialite and patron of the arts. She stipulated in her will that the money be used to beautify the city, and the tower was chosen as a fitting tribute to San Francisco's firefighters, who had bravely battled the 1906 earthquake and fire.

Today, Coit Tower remains a popular tourist destination and a testament to the enduring legacy of Art Deco architecture in San Francisco. Its unique blend of form, function, and artistic expression continues to inspire and captivate visitors from around the world.

Art Deco Architecture

Coit Tower: A Beacon of History on Telegraph Hill

As you ascend Telegraph Hill, the iconic silhouette of Coit Tower emerges, a sentinel guarding the neighborhood's rich history. This 210-foot-tall white concrete tower, commissioned by Lillie Hitchcock Coit, stands as a testament to the city's resilience and artistic spirit.

From Telegraph Hill's vantage point, Coit Tower offers panoramic views of San Francisco Bay, Alcatraz Island, and the Golden Gate Bridge. But its significance goes beyond its breathtaking vistas. The murals adorning its interior walls depict scenes from the city's past, capturing the essence of its working-class roots and the vibrant life that once thrived on Telegraph Hill.

These murals, painted during the Great Depression by local artists, offer a glimpse into the lives of firefighters, longshoremen, and other laborers who shaped the city's character. They depict scenes of everyday life, from bustling markets to children playing in the streets, offering a poignant reminder of the community that once flourished on Telegraph Hill.

Coit Tower's location on Telegraph Hill is no coincidence. The hill, once home to a semaphore telegraph station, played a crucial role in the city's early communication network. This historical connection adds another layer of significance to the tower, linking it to the city's technological advancements and its enduring spirit of innovation.

Today, Coit Tower stands as a symbol of Telegraph Hill's rich history and its vibrant present. It is a reminder of the community that built the city, the struggles they faced, and the resilience they demonstrated. As you stand at its base, gazing out at the cityscape, you can't help but feel a connection to the generations who came before you, their stories etched into the very fabric of this iconic landmark.

Telegraph Hill

The Coit Tower, a prominent landmark in San Francisco, California, stands as a testament to the philanthropic spirit of Lillie Hitchcock Coit. A wealthy socialite and patron of the arts, Coit was deeply affected by the devastating 1906 earthquake and fire that ravaged the city. In her will, she bequeathed a substantial sum of money to the city, specifically requesting the construction of a "monument for the benefit and enjoyment of the people of San Francisco."

Inspired by her love for the city and its resilience, Coit envisioned a tower that would serve as a beacon of hope and inspiration. The chosen design, a white, cylindrical structure reminiscent of a fire hose nozzle, paid homage to the city's firefighters who had bravely battled the blaze. The tower's location atop Telegraph Hill, the highest point in the city, ensured its visibility from afar, making it a symbol of San Francisco's indomitable spirit.

Coit's legacy is intricately woven into the fabric of the Coit Tower. Her name adorns the tower's base, and her portrait graces one of the murals inside. The murals themselves, depicting scenes of San Francisco's history and daily life, were commissioned by Coit and reflect her desire to capture the essence of the city she loved.

Today, the Coit Tower stands as a poignant reminder of Coit's generosity and her unwavering belief in the power of art to uplift and inspire. It is a testament to her enduring love for San Francisco, a city that she helped rebuild and shape into the vibrant metropolis it is today.

Lillie Hitchcock Coit

Coit Tower: A Monument to Public Art

The Public Works of Art Project (PWAP) played a pivotal role in shaping the artistic landscape of the United States during the Great Depression. One of its most iconic creations is the Coit Tower in San Francisco, California. This 210-foot Art Deco tower, perched atop Telegraph Hill, stands as a testament to the PWAP's mission to provide employment for artists and beautify public spaces.

Completed in 1933, the Coit Tower was the brainchild of Lillie Hitchcock Coit, a wealthy socialite and patron of the arts. In her will, she bequeathed funds to the city for the construction of a tower that would "beautify the city." The PWAP seized this opportunity to create a unique public artwork that would showcase the talents of local artists.

The tower's interior is adorned with murals depicting scenes from San Francisco's history and daily life. These murals, created by 27 different artists, offer a glimpse into the city's vibrant culture and social fabric during the 1930s. The murals depict a diverse range of subjects, from the construction of the Golden Gate Bridge to the bustling activity of the city's markets.

The Coit Tower stands as a powerful symbol of the PWAP's legacy. It not only provided much-needed employment for artists during a time of economic hardship but also enriched the city's cultural landscape with a unique and enduring work of art. The tower's murals offer a valuable window into the social and historical context of San Francisco during the Depression era, making it a significant site for those interested in the intersection of art, history, and public works.

Public Works of Art Project

Coit Tower: A Beacon on the San Francisco Skyline

Standing tall amidst the vibrant cityscape, Coit Tower is an iconic landmark that defines the San Francisco skyline. Its unique silhouette, a stark white cylinder adorned with a gleaming copper dome, pierces the sky, offering breathtaking panoramic views of the city and its surroundings. 

Nestled atop Telegraph Hill, Coit Tower occupies a strategic position, commanding attention from every corner of San Francisco. Its 210-foot height makes it a prominent feature, visible from afar, guiding travelers and residents alike. The tower's cylindrical form, reminiscent of a lighthouse, serves as a beacon, illuminating the city's landscape, especially during the night when its floodlights bathe the structure in a warm glow. 

As an integral part of the San Francisco skyline, Coit Tower's architectural style complements the city's diverse aesthetic. Its Art Deco design, characterized by clean lines, geometric shapes, and modern materials, harmonizes with the city's contemporary architecture, while its white exterior echoes the city's signature Victorian houses. This unique blend of styles creates a visually captivating landmark that seamlessly integrates into the San Francisco skyline. 

Coit Tower's significance extends beyond its visual impact. The murals adorning its interior walls depict scenes from San Francisco's history, showcasing the city's rich cultural heritage and its evolution over time. These murals, commissioned during the Great Depression, offer a glimpse into the lives of ordinary people, capturing the essence of the city's spirit and resilience. 

In conclusion, Coit Tower is more than just a prominent feature on the San Francisco skyline; it is a symbol of the city's history, culture, and architectural diversity. Its unique design, strategic location, and historical significance make it an integral part of the city's identity, offering visitors and residents alike a captivating landmark to admire and explore.

San Francisco Skyline

Coit Tower, a prominent landmark in San Francisco, California, holds a unique place on the National Register of Historic Places. Listed in 1984, the tower stands as a testament to the city's rich history and architectural heritage. Its significance lies not only in its physical presence but also in its embodiment of the Art Deco movement and its association with the social and cultural landscape of San Francisco during the 1930s.

Coit Tower's inclusion on the National Register recognizes its exceptional design and construction. The tower's cylindrical form, tapering towards the top, is a classic example of Art Deco architecture. Its exterior is adorned with intricate bas-relief murals depicting scenes of San Francisco life, further enhancing its artistic value. The murals, created by a group of local artists, provide a glimpse into the city's social and economic realities during the Great Depression.

Beyond its aesthetic appeal, Coit Tower holds historical significance as a symbol of civic pride and community spirit. Funded by Lillie Hitchcock Coit, a wealthy socialite and philanthropist, the tower was intended as a gift to the city. Its construction provided employment during the Depression, and its completion in 1933 marked a moment of hope and resilience for San Francisco.

Coit Tower's listing on the National Register underscores its importance as a cultural landmark and a testament to the city's artistic and architectural heritage. Its unique design, historical context, and association with the Art Deco movement make it a valuable asset to the National Register, preserving a significant piece of San Francisco's history for future generations.

National Register of Historic Places

Coit Tower: A Canvas for Social Realism Murals

Nestled atop Telegraph Hill, Coit Tower in San Francisco isn't just a landmark; it's a canvas for social realism murals. These vibrant frescoes, painted during the Great Depression, offer a glimpse into the lives and struggles of ordinary people during a tumultuous era.

Funded by Lillie Hitchcock Coit, a wealthy socialite and patron of the arts, the murals were a public works project designed to provide jobs and beautify the city. Artists like Victor Arnautoff, John Langley Howard, and Bernard Zakheim captured the spirit of the times, depicting scenes of labor, protest, and everyday life.

The murals are a powerful testament to the social and economic realities of the 1930s. They portray the hardships faced by workers, the strength of unions, and the resilience of the human spirit. One particularly striking mural, "The Strike," depicts a violent clash between workers and police, highlighting the struggles for better working conditions and social justice.

Beyond their historical significance, the murals are also remarkable for their artistic merit. The artists employed a variety of techniques, from traditional fresco to tempera, creating works that are both beautiful and thought-provoking. The murals are a testament to the power of art to reflect and shape society, offering a unique perspective on a pivotal moment in American history.

Visiting Coit Tower and its murals is a journey through time, offering a glimpse into the past while prompting reflection on the present. These powerful works of art remind us of the struggles and triumphs of ordinary people, and their enduring impact on the world we live in today.

Social Realism Murals

Coit Tower: A Panoramic Paradise

Coit Tower, perched atop Telegraph Hill, offers unparalleled panoramic views of San Francisco. Its 360-degree observation deck, accessible by elevator or a 322-step climb, unveils a breathtaking tapestry of the city's iconic landmarks and natural beauty.

Gazing westward, the Golden Gate Bridge stretches across the bay, its majestic silhouette framed by the rugged Marin Headlands. Alcatraz Island emerges from the water, a stark reminder of its infamous past. Angel Island, with its lush vegetation and historic immigration station, lies further east.

Turning southward, the cityscape unfolds in all its glory. The Transamerica Pyramid pierces the sky, while the Ferry Building and its bustling marketplace hug the waterfront. The rolling hills of Twin Peaks rise in the distance, offering a glimpse of the city's expansive sprawl.

Northward, the view encompasses Fisherman's Wharf, teeming with tourists and sea lions. The Palace of Fine Arts, with its graceful rotunda and lagoon, evokes a sense of timeless elegance. Beyond, the Golden Gate National Recreation Area stretches along the coast, a haven of natural beauty.

Coit Tower's panoramic views extend beyond the city limits. On a clear day, the snow-capped peaks of the Sierra Nevada Mountains shimmer in the distance, a reminder of California's diverse landscapes. The vast expanse of the Pacific Ocean stretches westward, its waves crashing against the rugged coastline.

Whether you're a seasoned San Franciscan or a first-time visitor, Coit Tower's panoramic views offer a unique perspective of the city's vibrant spirit and breathtaking beauty. It's a must-visit for anyone seeking an unforgettable visual experience.

Coit Tower

Did You Know?

Lillie's Legacy

A Generous Gift

Design Choice

Skinny Tower

Highlights from Reviews

Location