I’ve always imagined San Francisco had a Wild West vibe before the 1906 earthquake and fire. The disaster seemed to infuse a strain of resilience into the people and the place, and it defiantly rebuilt itself into a booming metropolis after the disaster.

I recently came across some photos on the Bygonely website from the city’s pre-quake days, and I realized I was wrong about what the city was like before. It was already a big and bustling city.

This is a really cool shot approaching the city via the bay in 1905. You can see the Ferry building on the left.

From Bygonely

Look at the way Market Street was lit up in 1904!

From Bygonely

This is Pine Street in 1905. I’m curious about the construction of these buildings and whether what we see here is the front or the back of the homes.

From Bygonely

Powell Street, from O’Farrell Street, 1904-1905. I guess General Arthur cigars were popular!

From Bygonely

Nighttime view of Knights of Pythias decorations and Spreckels Building on Market Street, 1900

From Bygonely