San Francisco: Then and Now

About this event

Regional historian and master storyteller John Martini brings the past vividly into the present through the fascinating art of rephotography-the process of locating the exact vantage points of historic photographs and capturing those same scenes today. Using rare archival images alongside his contemporary photographs, Martini reveals how some of the Bay Area's most famous landmarks, including Alcatraz Island, Fort Point, and Sutro Baths, have evolved across more than a century of dramatic change. Martini features dozens of compelling "then-and-now" comparisons that trace San Francisco's transformation from a rugged, wind-swept frontier settlement into one of the world's great urban centers. Along the way, he shares the detective work behind finding the original camera locations, the stories hidden within the images, and practical examples of how he's used rephotography in researching historic sites for the National Park Service and California State Parks. Rich in local history, visual discovery, and engaging anecdotes, this program offers a unique perspective on how photography can illuminate the layered history of San Francisco and the Bay Area. General Information View Common FAQs and Policies about our Online