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San Francisco, California / History

Parrott Building

Now the site of the Financial Center Building, this landmark once housed the Parrott Granite Block, one of San Francisco's first stone buildings, constructed from Chinese granite in 1852.

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Parrott Building
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What is the Parrott Building known for?

Also known as Parrott's Granite Block, it was a three-story building famous for its stunning exterior made of granite blocks brought from China and constructed by Chinese labor. It was one of the first stone buildings in San Francisco and helped spur the growth of the surrounding Financial District.

Where is it located?

The site is located at the northwest corner of Montgomery and California Streets in San Francisco.

Who built the Parrott Building and when?

The building was erected in 1852 by John Parrott, who was an importer, banker, and Tennessean.

Can I still visit the building today?

No, the building was demolished in 1926 to make way for the Financial Center Building, which now stands on the historic site.

Did the building survive the 1906 earthquake?

Yes, the building survived the 1906 earthquake and fire with little damage and reopened for business soon afterward.

What should I check before going?

Use Gyde for context, then check official sources for current hours, tickets, construction, and closures.

What to know

The Parrott Granite Block, also known as the Parrott Building, was established in 1852 by John Parrott, a Tennessean banker and importer. Located at the northwest corner of Montgomery and California Streets, this three-story structure was one of the first stone buildings in the city. It was uniquely constructed using granite blocks imported from China and was built by Chinese labor, making it a renowned local attraction for several decades. This landmark played a significant role in the growth of the surrounding Financial District, helping to spur development in the area. Its stunning Chinese granite exterior became a point of pride for the local community. The building stood as a testament to the early international trade and labor connections of the city. The building's resilience was proven during the 1906 earthquake and fire, which caused only light damage. It reopened for business shortly after the disaster, continuing to serve as a hub of activity. However, the structure eventually entered a period of decay during the early 1920s. By 1926, the Parrott Granite Block was demolished to make way for the Financial Center Building at 500 California Street. Today, the site is recognized as California Historical Landmark No. 89, marking the location of a building that witnessed over a century of change in San Francisco's Financial District.

Visitor tips

  • Look for the California Historical Landmark No. 89 plaque to identify the exact site.
  • Visit during a weekday morning to experience the hustle and bustle of the modern Financial District around the site.
  • Allow a few minutes to compare the current Financial Center Building with historical images of the Parrott Block.

Nearby context

This site is located in the heart of the Financial District, at the northwest corner of Montgomery and California Streets, where the modern Financial Center Building now stands.

Sources

Evidence and links