117th Anniversary of 1906 Earthquake

San Francisco Fire --117th Anniversary of the Great San Francisco Earthquake and Fire of 1906 Annual Lotta’s Fountain and Golden Hydrant Painting Commemoration Events

On Tuesday, April 18, 2023, the San Francisco Fire Department and other early risers will commemorate the 117th anniversary of the Great Earthquake and Fire of 1906 at an annual commemoration ceremony held at the historic Lotta’s Fountain in downtown San Francisco.

The event, which begins precisely at 5:12 AM, the exact time the 1906 earthquake struck the sleeping city of San Francisco, is: “The time that we San Franciscans commemorate those who suffered great losses and celebrate the spirit and resolve of the people of San Francisco who overcame the devastation of that historical day and rebuilt this great City” said Fire Chief Jeanine Nicholson. “This is also a time to educate and remind all people of the importance of disaster preparedness.”

After the commemoration ceremony at Lotta’s Fountain, a procession (estimated to be 5:50 AM) will be made to the famous golden fire hydrant for the annual re-painting ceremony on the corner of 20th and Church streets. The celebrated fire hydrant is said to have been the sole water source used by thousands of volunteers responsible for saving the south side of the Mission District during the aftermath of the 1906 earthquake.