Pershing Square

What to know

Pershing Square serves as the historic heart of the Presidio's Main Post. It is situated within the boundaries of El Presidio de San Francisco, a fort established by Spain in 1776. To the east of the square, visitors can find the site of the original Spanish Presidio, and a boulder by the sidewalk marks the approximate northwest corner of the original fort, which measured roughly 300 feet on each side. The square is named for General John J. Pershing, who commanded the American Expeditionary Force in World War I and is the only six-star general in American history other than George Washington. The site marks the former location of the Officers' Quarters, where General Pershing's family lived. In a tragic event, a fire consumed the house while Pershing was in Mexico pursuing Pancho Villa, killing his wife, Frances Pershing, and three of their four children. Today, the square is a peaceful place for visitors to enjoy a picnic while learning about the Presidio's history. The area features four large, wheelchair-accessible picnic tables available on a first-come, first-served basis. A central flagpole marks the exact site of the former house, and two bronze cannon are displayed here, which were originally mounted elsewhere. Periodic live digs are also held here, which allow visitors to learn about the site's history through archaeology.

Visitor tips

• Bring your own food for a picnic, as there are no grills available at the square.
• The picnic tables are first-come, first-served, so arrive early if you want to secure one of the four large tables.
• Look for the boulder by the sidewalk to orient yourself to the original 1776 Spanish Presidio boundaries.
• The site is easily accessible on foot or by shuttle.

Nearby context

Pershing Square is centrally located on the Arguello Boulevard corridor of the Presidio's Main Post, placing it within a walking distance of the Bison Paddock and other historic military installations.