June 29, 1776 – San Francisco at 250

On June 29, 1776, Spanish Franciscan Father Francisco Palóu celebrated Mass near the shores of what was then called Arroyo de los Dolores, marking the founding of Mission San Francisco de Asís—better known as Mission Dolores—and the beginning of the colonial settlement that became San Francisco. The date came just five days before the signing of the Declaration of Independence.  

As San Francisco celebrates its 250th birthday, we also honor the Ramaytush Ohlone people, whose history on the peninsula stretches back thousands of years before 1776. From Indigenous homeland to Spanish outpost, Gold Rush port, immigrant gateway and global beacon of creativity, freedom and inclusion, San Francisco’s story continues to be written.

Happy 250th Birthday, San Francisco!