Did the Greenes ever imagine their little “Pig Lake” would become a beloved San Francisco park? Pine Lake Park, tucked away in the city’s southwest corner, has a history as rich as the ecosystem it protects. Originally part of a much larger property purchased by the Greene family in 1847, the area encompassing present-day Pine Lake Park and Sigmund Stern Grove was nearly lost. A lawsuit in 1887 forced the family to relinquish most of their land. Thankfully, they held onto this special spot, even planting the eucalyptus trees that still grace the lake’s edge. The city, recognizing the area’s natural beauty, acquired the land around Pine Lake in the 1930s, shortly after the adjacent Sigmund Stern Grove opened. Pine Lake itself, once called Laguna Puerca or Pig Lake, is a unique feature. It’s one of the few natural freshwater lakes in San Francisco, sharing an aquifer with nearby Lake Merced. This constant source of fresh water creates a vibrant habitat. Willows, tules, and other aquatic plants thrive around the lake’s edge, attracting migratory birds along the Pacific Flyway. Imagine these feathered travelers, making a pit stop at Pine Lake to rest and refuel during their long journeys. A trail winds around the lake, inviting visitors to enjoy the scenery and spot these avian visitors. This path connects to a larger network of trails through Stern Grove, eventually linking up with a segment of the Bay Area Ridge Trail. Pine Lake Park, a tranquil oasis in the bustling city, offers a place for quiet reflection and a connection with nature. So next time you find yourself at Pine Lake Park, take a moment to appreciate the Greenes’ legacy. Their little Pig Lake transformed into a cherished urban sanctuary.
Центральный дом работников искусств
Step through the grand wooden doors of the Central House of the Workers of Art, and you’ll be transported to