Stern Of Galilee Fort Mason Center San Francisco 2 Editorial Image

Fort Mason in San Francisco has history going back to the American Civil War even though no battles took place in California during this period. It did have the gold at the time which both side did want, and although the state was supplying the Union with troops, it also had a still open harbor, which the south did need. Since most of the residents of San Francisco at this time were from other countries more than there rest of this country, their ideals were to supporting and joining the Union.Privately owned by Major General John C Fremont, the land was seized by the federal government under orders by President Lincoln as it was too valuable to the war. The fort is named for Richard Mason, military governor of California before statehood, and descendent of George Mason, one of the signers of the Constitution and Bill of Rights.The Galilee was supposed to be the smallest ship to have sailed out of San Francisco, going between the city and Tahiti. Built in 1891, she carried people, goods and mail, what is known as a `Packet Line`. She was so fast, on her return, maiden voyage, she set a 21 day record. 20 October 2022.