LARKSPUR HISTORY

Larkspur, California has a rich history, including the development of the town, Charles W. Wright laid out the town in 1887, and the first post office opened in 1891. The town was incorporated in 1908.

Larkspur City Hall in has a long history, including its construction, dedication, and the surrounding historic district: 

• Construction: The Mission Revival style building was designed by San Francisco architect Charles O. Claussen and built in 1913. It cost $15,110.50 and was completed in five months. 
• Dedication: The building was dedicated on April 20, 1913. The dedication ceremony included a parade of children from the local school, speeches, and the baptism of a baby. 
• Location: The building is located at 400 Magnolia Avenue. 
• Historic district: The building is part of the Larkspur Downtown Historic District, which was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1982. The district includes 41 buildings and one structure of historical significance. It's known for its commercial storefronts with residential units above, and its mix of architectural styles. 
• Walking tour: A self-guided walking tour of the historic district is available. 

Historic downtown district

• The downtown area, including Magnolia Avenue, the Lark Theater, and the Blue Rock building, is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The buildings are representative of commercial architecture from the early 20th century. 

Larkspur Ferry Terminal

• The ferry terminal is located at Larkspur Landing, which was formerly the Hutchinson's Rock Quarry. The terminal opened in 1976 and is the main Golden Gate Ferry terminal in Larkspur. 

Other historical sites

• Remillard's Brickyard Kiln, a state historical landmark, is located across from the ferry terminal. The Green Brea Brick Kiln is the only surviving structure from the Remillard Brick Company, which helped rebuild San Francisco after the 1906 earthquake. 

Other notable events

• The area was logged to supply lumber to the Presidio in San Francisco. San Franciscans enjoyed visiting in the summer, and the region became popular with vacationers from the Bay Area in the early 1900s. Leon Uris wrote Battle Cry in Larkspur, and Janis Joplin and other early pop music icons lived there.