Footage of San Francisco Before and After the Earthquake, 1906
Two short films depicting the streets of San Francisco before and after the devastating earthquake and fire of 1906.
From: 1906 C.E. To: 1906 C.E.
Location: San Francisco, California, United States
In the early-morning hours of April 18, 1906, a 7.9-magnitude earthquake shook the coast of Northern California. It caused widespread damage in the Western United States, most notably to the city of San Francisco. While many buildings survived the initial quake, subsequent fires and the use of dynamite to contain them leveled much of the city. As many as 3,000 people are believed to have died in the disaster. San Francisco survived and rebuilt, but the earthquake is remembered as one of the most costly tragedies in US history.
These videos, provided by the Library of Congress, show San Francisco shortly before and after the earthquake.
A Trip Down Market Street Before The Fire
San Francisco Earthquake and Fire, April 18, 1906
Video courtesy of the Library of Congress, Miles Brothers - Afi/Post (George) Collection, and Afi/Adams (L. F.) Collection.
References
“The Great 1906 San Francisco Earthquake.” U.S. Geological Survey, USGS, earthquake.usgs.gov/earthquakes/events/1906calif/18april/.
About TOTA
TOTA.world provides cultural information and sharing across the world to help you explore your Family’s Cultural History and create deep connections with the lives and cultures of your ancestors.
