San Francisco 1906: Journey Along the Tracks to the Ferry Building Marketplace

This poignant archival footage captures a haunting journey along San Francisco’s streetcar tracks in 1906, just months after the devastating April 18 earthquake and fire that leveled much of the city. Filmed in black-and-white, the silent film follows the route toward the iconic Ferry Building Marketplace, one of the few structures to survive the disaster thanks to its foundation of wooden pilings. Amid the rubble-strewn streets and smoldering ruins, the footage reveals the resilience of survivors navigating the chaos, offering a raw glimpse into the city’s darkest hour. A gripping testament for history buffs and those moved by San Francisco’s rebirth, this rare reel preserves a pivotal moment in American history.