Recently, Garavaglia Architecture’s Chris Lutjen participated in a tour of the Old Mint. Organized by the Heritage Young Preservationists, the Associate Curator led a tour of the building on 5th and Mission a couple of days ago.
Built in 1868, and left almost completely intact after the earthquake in 1906,it benefited from an experimental practice of the time a floating foundation, all metal trim and heat absorbing masonry walls. The building became not only one of the few institutions with money (because it was in coins) but was an outpost for refugees in the aftermath of the disaster to apply for funds and receive fresh water from the cisterns in the courtyard. The office renovation from the 1970’s has recently been completely torn out. The main hall and rooms were renovated at that time and are apparent in the current state. It is intended to completely renovate the building and open as a history museum.
The building will be open for the event Backstage Pass: A Sweeping History of Rock ’n Roll on these days in July. There is a $10 admission fee.
The hours are:
Thursday 7/16: 5p.m. to 9p.m.
Friday 7/17-Sunday 7/19: Noon to 5p.m.