Refugees on Franklin St.
By: usermattw
Tags: antiques, earthquake, photography, San Francisco, vintage photography
Category: Groups
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I’m often drawn to pictures of San Francisco, having lived here for years. And a photo like this, that depicts a legendary time in the city’s history, is especially interesting to me. This is a little 3.75 x 2.75-inch photo. Written on the back is “Refugees on Franklin St.”. While that’s all the information that accompanies it, this image gives every appearance of showing people who were left homeless by the 1906 earthquake and fires in San Francisco. While several blocks of Franklin Street burned, a much longer stretch survived, but was within a block of the burn zone. (You can see a map here.) It makes sense that people forced out of the destroyed area would initially congregate there, seeking news or aid. The disaster began on April 18, 1906, and while people remained homeless for months after, this scene has the feel of chaotic early days. I haven’t tried to match this scene with the present-day street, but it wouldn’t surprise me if some of those houses are still standing. (Wooden houses survived the quake more than brick ones.) I can’t tell if the image’s hazy quality is the result of smoke-filled air, or is just the best the photographer could do at the time with the equipment on hand. I’m intrigued by what appears to be an umbrella blown inside out at the right, since nothing else (like the hang of the woman’s skirt) gives the impression of strong wind.
Pics of Then 
This is an amazing photograph!
Thanks, Michael!
Hi Matt
Do you think this is an aid delivery scene? The men, on what I presume is a lorry, seems to be working to move things, presumably to give to the crowd.
The umbrella is definitely an unusual detail in what seems like a windless environment. I also find it interesting that there are people sitting on steps unmoved by the fracas in front of them. Incredible addition to your collection!
Yes, I as thinking it’s probably an aid delivery, especially since the man on top seems to be in uniform. It might also be people gathered to receive news or evacuation instructions, but aid would probably be my first guess. And I agree, there are so many interesting little details tucked into this image. It always amazes me that detailed pictures like this got printed so small.