Pioneer's Monument

The Pioneer's Monument is the largest in San Francisco and is dedicated to the adventurers and pioneers who settled California. The monument is a statue of the goddess Eureka standing on a pedestal with a shield and spear, accompanied by a bear. The pedestal is inscribed with the names of many of the most famous first residents of the state. There are also four pedestals nearby with goddesses and gold-panners, as well as a Native American. The monument has created controversy in recent years because of the presence of the Native American who is thought by some to be seated in a submissive position. The intention of the monument was to honor the strength of those who came to California in search of a better life and its survival of the city's massive 1906 earthquake makes it a living symbol of the city's resilience. Those looking to explore the lesser known side of San Francisco should include the monument on their tour itinerary. There are a number of San Francisco Hotels less than five miles from the monument including the Best Western Tuscan Inn at Fisherman's Wharf, the Comfort Inn by the Bay, the Grand Hyatt San Francisco on Union Square, the San Francisco Marriott Fisherman's Wharf and the Mandarin Oriental San Francisco.