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photo by Donald Kinney
Well, if you were wondering who's hand this is, it belongs to Phillip Burton, a San Franciscan elected to Congress in 1964.
The plaque accompanying the statue reads; "Powerful, profane, brilliant, fierce -- think about Phil Burton and you will think in big, dramatic terms. He wasn't a moderate man. He fought for workers' rights, for seniors and people with disabilities, for the most impoverished and underprivileged. Once convinced that creating national parks close to where people live would improve their lives, he fought for park legislation. He fought and won."
click photo for full-size image
photo by Donald Kinney
"In 1972, Phil Burton authored the bill that created the Golden Gate National Recreation Area. He went on to author national parks and recreation acts in 1978 and 1980 that were the most expansive ever to pass Congress. The 1978 bill alone more than doubled the national park lands, nearly doubled the wild and scenic river system, and tripled the number of national trails." CLICK for the complete list.
The plaque reads on -- "Look out toward the Golden Gate. You can enjoy stunning landscapes and historic landmarks on both sides of the bridge because Phil Burton protected them from development. Across the country, you can visit wondrous and significant sites because Burton's vision forever influenced the way we, as a nation, view, value, and preserve our natural and cultural heritage." [[[do I even need to mention that Burton was a Democrat?]]]
click photo for full-size image
photo by Donald Kinney
These old Army buildings are part of Fort Mason -- not far from the field where Phil Burton's statue stands -- but don't worry, they are no longer owned by the military [[[thanks Phil]]], but are leased out to businesses and organizations. Some buildings have even been pulled into service as a Youth Hostel. The huge old building that used to serve as military headquarters has been transformed into Fort Mason Center -- a gem of culture and enlightenment.
One of the most beautiful walks in San Francisco is at Fort Mason -- it skirts along the bay cliffs to the northeast, taking you from the Marina Green all the way to Aquatic Park over a hill that is guaranteed to give you a good cardiovascular workout. The views of the Golden Gate Bridge, Alcatraz, and San Francisco Bay are absolutely stunning.
click photo for full-size image
photo by Donald Kinney
One of San Francisco's best kept secrets is the huge community garden at Fort Mason. It too, is a gem. See you there...
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4 comments:
My husbands Dad was instrumental in getting Burton to have Fort Point part of the GGNRA and we have pictures of them together at the declaration of the Area which took place just before the Fort on the grassy area.
Love the pictures and the memories they bring.
HI PHOTOWANNABE SUE -- So interesting about your husband's father being instrumental with Fort Point being included... --You know, I still have not been inside of Fort Point, but it is definitely on the top of my list. I think it's only open weekends, but some day I'll brave the crowds and see what's in there (((I've seen some great photos)))... Best regards, Don and Kitty
Love the agave plants. I've shot them over and over. The way the plant unfolds, and grows large, continues to amaze me.
Reading about Fort Mason and the Fort Mason Center makes me want to spend some time down there. Obviously I've overlooked it for 18 years.
See you in April.
It looks so warm and inviting. I'm so cold. I need to go there.
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