“Remember this day” I overheard someone saying. Today, we stand at Black Point Battery. This place whispers tales of San Francisco’s defense. It echoes with the voices of abolitionists. It even hints at spooky discoveries.
Black Point Battery started as Point San Jose. The Army saw its strategic value in 1863. They needed to protect San Francisco’s gold. A Confederate attack was a real threat then. This battery became a key part of the city’s defense.
After the Civil War, the US Army 9th Infantry Regiment made Black Point their headquarters. It became the military center for the entire West Coast. Those Rodman cannons you see stood guard. They were San Francisco’s last line of defense against enemy ships. They stood watch for over a century.
Before the Army arrived, Black Point had another life. It was a civilian neighborhood. Wealthy, educated people built homes here. One of them was John C. Fremont. He led the Bear Flag Revolt. Interestingly, they were all abolitionists. They wanted to end slavery in the US. Black Point became a hub for political debate.
These residents supported David Broderick. He was a California Senator. He was against slavery. This stance created enemies. One of them was David Terry. Terry challenged Broderick to a duel. It took place at Lake Merced. Broderick’s pistol misfired. Terry shot him. Broderick died two days later at his friend Haskell’s home in Black Point. He said he was killed for supporting freedom.
In 2010, a spooky discovery was made near the Fort Mason hostel. Workers found a pit. It contained about 1,400 human bones. The bones were stacked by type. Researchers believe they came from the Point San Jose hospital in the 1860s. A Dr. Edwin Bentley might have used them to teach medical students. He showed them different causes of death.
Black Point Battery has seen many changes. From Spanish defense to civilian homes. From abolitionist debates to military headquarters. It is a place of layered history. As you wander through this secluded spot, listen closely. Can you hear the echoes of the past. They tell a story of defense, ideals and even a bit of mystery.