The Presidio: More Than Just a Backdrop for a Sean Connery Flick
Heard of the "The Presidio"? It's a movie starring Sean Connery and Mark Harmon. Sounds action-packed, right? Hold on. Before you search for it, let’s check out the real Presidio. Trust me, it’s more interesting than a film that feels "cloned from spare parts of other movies." Ouch. Even a cinematic flop can lead to cool places. In this case, we’re talking about a San Francisco gem.
The Movie "The Presidio": Let's Manage Expectations
Is "The Presidio" movie based on a true story? Not at all, according to our intel. Hollywood often claims things are "based on a true story," even when it's pure fiction. This one seems to fall squarely in that camp.
How about quality? Critics had no praise. One harsh review states it "begins with an assembly-line screenplay and never rises above it." Ouch again. Even Sean Connery's charm couldn't save this from being a disappointment. It’s been mocked as a mishmash of other films. So, maybe keep those expectations down.
Where was it filmed? Good question. Unfortunately, the info is as scarce as a secret. San Francisco? Or a look-alike location? The truth is elusive! The plot is another mystery the brief doesn't reveal. Perhaps it's so revolutionary that spoiling it is unwise. Or perhaps it’s just...forgettable. We’ll have to wait and see.
The Real Star: The Presidio Itself
Now that the movie talk is done, let’s focus on the real star: the Presidio. Forget its Hollywood version. This place holds a history richer than a top banker and vistas that could make a postcard cry. Still a military base? Nope! Congress closed it in 1989. It officially joined the National Park Service in 1994. That’s a plot twist worthy of a better film.
From Military Stronghold to National Park Playground
Why did the military leave? They weren't kicked out. It was part of a Base Realignment and Closure (BRAC) program. To put it simply, the government wanted a smaller military footprint, and the Presidio was on the list. Think of it as a retirement for the military, San Francisco-style.
Who manages it now? It’s a joint effort. The Presidio Trust looks after about 80%. They act like landlords in this massive park. The other 20%? That belongs to the National Park Service within the Golden Gate National Recreation Area. It’s like organized co-parenting for a national treasure.
What to Do in the Presidio: Spoiler Alert – It's Awesome
What can you *do* at the Presidio? Get ready to be amazed.
Hiking? Definitely! The Presidio offers twelve major nature trails. You could hike a different one every weekend for three months. Just think of the views! Think of the bragging rights!
Biking? Of course! Multi-use trails run throughout. Perfect for pedaling through stunning scenes. Imagine yourself, wind blowing, with the Golden Gate Bridge ahead. Feeling adventurous or foolish? Choose your outfit wisely.
History lover? Fort Point awaits. Positioned at the bay's entrance, it provides beautiful views and insights into Civil War history. Cannons, brick walls, soldier tales – it’s like stepping back into history, without the itchy uniforms.
Need to reflect? The San Francisco National Cemetery offers a powerful moment. It’s the resting place for many notable figures, including Civil War generals. It’s a somber reminder of sacrifice and history, well-maintained and beautiful.
Getting There and Getting Around: No Batmobile Required
Getting to the Presidio is easy. Walk, bike, take a bus, drive – your choice. It’s quite accessible compared to other national parks that may seem daunting. Once you arrive, the Presidio is open 24 hours a day. Yes, you read that right. Every hour of every day. Want a midnight stroll under stars with Golden Gate twinkling? The Presidio provides that. The Visitor Center hours are 10 AM to 5 PM daily, except holidays. The Presidio Tunnel Tops are also open 24/7 and free. Yes, entirely free! In San Francisco, that’s practically miraculous.
Entrance fees? Another miracle! The Presidio seems to operate on generosity, or they may have forgotten to specify. Regardless, no explicit entrance fee is mentioned. In park terms, that usually means free access. Winner!
Living the Presidio Life: Yes, People Actually Live There
Believe it or not, people live in the Presidio. It’s not only a park; it’s like a quirky town in a national park. Approximately 3,000 residents call it home, spread across neighborhoods. Additionally, 225 organizations have a presence there. It’s a bustling community, proving national parks can be more than just trees and trails.
Presidio's Claim to Fame: Landmark Status and Golden Gate Goodness
Why is the Presidio famous? It’s a National Historic Landmark. That’s significant. Think of it as winning a blue ribbon in history. Moreover, it’s part of the Golden Gate National Recreation Area, one of America’s most visited park sites. People flock here like seagulls after fries. This place has housed native peoples and served as a military post under three flags (Spanish, Mexican, and American). Now, it's a park for all.
Military Muscle: Past and Present
The military history greatly shapes the Presidio’s identity. "U.S. Army post" is nearly its middle name. However, what about the *historical* role of presidios in general? The brief is silent there. It’s perhaps an avenue for deeper exploration. San Francisco holds many military installations: Treasure Island, Fort Mason, Battery Chamberlin, and even the Cable Car Barn (yes!). California stands as a military center with "irreplaceable assets," including weather and terrain. It’s a strategic military playground.
Is it Safe? Swan Attacks and Raccoon Rogues
Safety in the Presidio? Yes, generally. It’s deemed "intown" safe, as they say. Still, like all urban areas, crime can happen. Stay alert. Look out for *wildlife*. Aggressive swans? Wayward raccoons? Snapping turtles? Skunks? It sounds more like a comedy than a park! Be aware of your surroundings, both human and animal.
Purpose and Present Use: More Than Just a Pretty Face
What’s the Presidio’s purpose? The brief is oddly vague about its *original* intention, but the *present* use is clear: recreation, history, culture, and environment. It’s an "urban oasis," a sprawling 1,491-acre playground filled with history, art, restaurants, forests, meadows, and beaches. Unlimited recreation opportunities? Not joking! It’s a choose-your-own-adventure park for hiking, history, or simply relaxing with some snacks and possibly hostile swans.
Presidio Through Time: From Latin Roots to Modern Marvel
The Presidio's historical roots merit exploration. The term "presidio" comes from the Latin "praesidium," which means "protection" or "defense." It reflects its military origins.
Spanish Colonial
Days: Hardship and Duty
During the Spanish Colonial era, presidios acted as military outposts. They defended Spain's claims on lands with indigenous groups. Daily life was tough. Soldiers endured hunger, thirst, exhaustion, harsh weather, worn uniforms, broken weapons, and tired horses. Imagine this as a required job, not a choice. Life was hard. Your typical office job looks easy compared to that.
Military Significance: San Francisco's Fortified History
San Francisco's military presence matters. California's military significance is clear. The San Francisco National Cemetery is unique. It holds 30,000 soldiers, families, and notable figures. Examples include Civil War generals and Medal of Honor recipients. Arlington is famous, but Fort Rosecrans rivals it in beauty. Arlington also holds Confederate soldiers in a circle, their gravestones facing inward. General Mark Milley mentions this symbolizes their rejection of the Union. History has sharp edges.
Fort Mason: A Presidio Neighbor with Stories to Tell
Fort Mason stands out in San Francisco. It was a key embarkation point for military actions until the 1960s. By 1965, most embarkation facilities closed. The Army still uses some officer housing. Fort Mason reminds us of San Francisco's significant military past.
Golden Gate Bridge: Tunnels, Depths, and Shipwrecks
The Golden Gate Bridge connects to the Presidio. The Presidio Tunnel improves access to it. Curious about the water depth? It reaches 377 feet (115 meters) at the deepest part. Enough to hide a sunken steamboat. The City of Chester, which sank in 1890, rests on the seafloor under the bridge. It remains upright, underscoring an underwater time capsule.
Real Estate and Riches: Presidio Heights and Billionaires Row
Let's shift to real estate. San Francisco is known for its high prices. The Presidio area is no different. Presidio Heights is the richest neighborhood, with a median income around $210,000 and the highest real estate values. It features mansions and quiet streets. For billionaires, Pacific Heights, also known as "Billionaires Row," is the place to be. Each neighborhood offers a unique singles scene. Choose from Mission, Sunset/Parkside, Nob Hill, or Tenderloin based on your vibe.
Presidio Today: A Park for the People
What can visitors do in the Presidio today? Hiking and biking are options, but there's more. Museums abound. The Walt Disney Family Museum is a must-see for Disney fans and curious visitors alike. Outdoor concerts, campfire talks, and various events happen regularly. It's a lively park mixing history, nature, and culture in true San Francisco style.
Who Really Owns the Presidio? A Tale of Two Entities
Now, let’s examine ownership. The Presidio Trust and the National Park Service manage it. The Presidio Trust, a government corporation formed by Congress in 1996, oversees 80% of the Presidio. Its board involves presidential and Secretary of the Interior appointees. The National Park Service controls the remaining 20%, which includes coastal areas, as part of the Golden Gate National Recreation Area. This partnership aims to keep the space accessible and preserved for future generations. They are doing well.
Experience the real Presidio instead of that average movie. Explore trails and historical sites. Each visit is unique, so don’t miss out. Check out Lonely Planet's guide to the Presidio. For a brief historical overview, see the Presidio's official history page. Wikipedia fans can visit the Presidio of San Francisco Wikipedia page. Enjoy exploring!
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