By Casey Michi
cmichie1@mail.ccsf.edu
East facing
Along the north coast of San Francisco, Black Point’s historic gardens are on the list of the longest known resorts in San Francisco. At the opening of the park on August 25, visitors will see the San Francisco Sky Line, the widening of the sea bridge, the fishing boats, and the bay. Where all have been closed to the public for more than 50 years.
Located between Fort Mason and the water park, the one-hectare black dot historic gardens also offer more visitors than views. Along the way, visitors will be able to marvel at the sheer variety of plants and admire all those who have gone down the same slope before them.
The rich history of the black dot goes back centuries. Protected from the westerly winds blowing through the Golden Gate, the black dot was originally the home of the Olon people. As the years went by, Spanish settlers, promising 49’er, and both the Mexican and American armies took control.
John C. Freemont, one of California’s first senators, lived with his wife, Cessie Freemont, on a black farm. During the civil war, however, the Confederates’ fleet, through the Golden Gate of the military, set out to seize control of the territory. The black dot remained in the US military until the 1970s, when it was transferred to the Golden Gate National Recreation Authority.
For more than 50 years, the area has been dormant, leaving behind fences and invading plants. Until 2017, the Park Conservancy and National Park Service began a year-long project to restore the point to its former glory.
An independent team of volunteers, led by Lah Fritz and Natalie Corringeld, worked tirelessly to renovate the yard. However, work to restore the park is now hampered by unforeseen obstacles.
The biggest challenge in working in black gardens was the lack of volunteer assistance during the COVID-19 restrictions. With only two employees, it was a struggle to see growth, ”Fris notes. We received a generous gift of native grass, but we still need more plants to provide colorful flowers.
Despite the challenges, hard work is already paying off when residents say they are excited about the new entertainment on the San Francisco beach.
Michael Worm, a resident of Marina County, said: “I have spent years walking in this area, and I am happy to see this land finally opened to the public. It will be a great addition to both our community and the city of San Francisco.
Fritz similarly describes the content of her team’s hard work for the garden: [of the project] Last spring he saw a bouquet of wildflowers blooming, covering the hill with yellow and pink flowers.
Garden managers hope the area will serve as a place to educate people about the challenges of environmental ecology and climate change.
“I hope that the black dot historic gardens will make a difference in the community by providing a green space,” Frisz said of local magic. To attract gardeners and future gardeners in gardening, climate change and urban pollen habitat.
Explore the sights of the city, take a walk in the various gardens, or admire the history of San Francisco, the black dot historic gardens offer something for both residents and tourists alike. To the Golden Gate National Park Conservancy Media and Communication Specialist Beatrice Kilate, “There is a history in the gardens – come on.