Looking Back
The history of 1 Fort Mason dates back to 1865 when
the building was constructed to be the residence and
headquarters for the Commanding General of the Western
Armies. For the next 75 years, there was a succession
of illustrious military leaders occupying the residence
and it is safe to say that 1 Fort Mason has housed
more illustrious residents than any other single house
in San Francisco. As the Commanding General’s
residence, the house was also the site of visits by
numerous foreign and local dignitaries including two
Presidents of the United States: Usysses S. Grant in
1879 and Rutherford B. Hayes in 1880.
Over the years the residence experienced multiple redecorations
under the direction of the Commanding General’s wives.
The front façade and primary interior spaces remain
relatively unchanged, so that the core building possesses
considerable historical integrity.
In 1943, the house was converted into an Officers Club for
officers assigned to the San Francisco Port of Embarkation
at Fort Mason and the Oakland Army Terminal. When the Fort
Mason Officers Club closed in January 2003, its passing was
noted by military and civilians alike. All of whom had come
to appreciate the building’s views, ambience and important
role in California and American history.
Looking
Foward
1 Fort Mason is striving to be a model for sustainable principles
in all aspects of its operation. When
the Parks Service turned over this magnificent site to Food
From the Parks, this historic building needed attention and
upgrading. We were committed to making this (and all future
modifications) a model for
green historic renovation. It was a delicate balance to keep
the integrity of the historic site, while refreshing it to
make the space more contemporary, clean and usable. We were
sensitive to issues related to indoor air-quality, refuse
disposal, re-usability of materials, and life-cycle analysis.
Here
is a partial list of our green renovation initiative:
 Recycled
all carpeting, drapery and window treatments
All outdated equipment was donated or recycled
Newly
installed carpet made with recycled materials
Wall coverings made of non-toxic materials with high recycled
content
Window coverings made of non-toxic material
Low VOC paint used throughout
As
a venue for events and conferences, we are equally
committed to sustainable operations.
Our preferred providers are screened to ensure their business
practices comply with our strict
“green” criteria including, but not limited
to:
Using local, seasonal and organic produce
Recycling or composting all refuse
Use of non-disposable items whenever possible
Use of non-toxic cleaning materials
Monitoring of energy use and consumption
Fair labor practices
Our commitment runs
even deeper... we have been holding meetings and
conferences that address
current issues on sustainability and we offer special rates
for non-profits who would like to use the
facility for workshops and meetings in the realm of Food
Systems, Agriculture, Environment, Health
and Social Justice.
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