The History and How it's Changed

The square was initially much more than just a tourist location. At first it began as an industrial center and an import port. This environment became what some call the playground for young oyster pirate Jack London. The location provided much of the inspiration that would later become great works of fiction. The square's success was due to it's location near both the water and the agricultural locations. As time went on railroad lines from both the Central Pacific and the Transcontinental Railroads were built.

During his time here, Jack London spent a lot of time in the Heinold's FIrst and Last Chance Saloon, which is now considered a National Literary Landmark. The saloon was made out of the innards of an old whaling ship and was the meeting ground fro many politicians, sailors, other writers, and artists.

Finally the last landmark is the U.S.S. Potomac. It's origin history is relatively short, serving initially as a Navy vessel in 1936 and was later transformed into the presidents personal yacht. Now it has become a tourist attraction and is used as a cruise ship for visitors.

This hub was at one time a very bustling and exciting place. Now, however; the place feels incredibly empty. Our current economic state has left the square abandoned, many of the stores have gone out of business and the one or two tourst attractions are not enough to keep people interested. The only thing keeping it alive is the water, which is poorly taken care of and serves more as a form of transportation instead of the fishing hub that it used to be. It's sad and disappointing to see how far this once proud area has fallen.