Monument to Ulysses S. Grant in Golden Gate Park San Francisco

Bust Of Ulysses S. Grant

Visiting the Bust of Ulysses S. Grant in San Francisco: Hours, Tickets, and Tips

Date: 14/06/2025

Introduction

The Bust of Ulysses S. Grant in San Francisco’s Golden Gate Park once stood as a powerful symbol of the city’s engagement with American history. Created by sculptor Rupert Schmid in 1896, the bronze monument honored Grant’s pivotal roles as Civil War general and 18th President of the United States. Set near major cultural institutions like the de Young Museum and the California Academy of Sciences, the bust served as both an artistic tribute and a site for public reflection. However, following its toppling during Juneteenth protests in 2020, the bust has become a focal point in discussions about monument preservation, historical legacy, and evolving public memory. This guide provides in-depth information on the site’s history, visiting logistics, nearby attractions, and the broader cultural significance of Grant’s commemoration.

Monument to Ulysses S. Grant by Rupert Schmid in Golden Gate Park San Francisco

Monument of Ulysses S. Grant in Golden Gate Park San Francisco

Introduction
Grant’s Historical Legacy
The Bust’s Artistic and Physical Features
Location, Access, and Visitor Logistics
The 2020 Toppling and Ongoing Debate
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Recommendations for Visitors
Conclusion and Call to Action
References

Grant’s Historical Legacy

Early Life and Civil War Leadership

Ulysses S. Grant, born in 1822 in Ohio, rose from humble origins and a West Point education to become one of the most influential figures in American history. His military prowess was instrumental during the Civil War; Grant’s victories at battles such as Vicksburg and Chattanooga led President Abraham Lincoln to appoint him General-in-Chief of the Union Army in 1864. Grant’s strategic leadership and relentless offensives culminated in General Robert E. Lee’s surrender at Appomattox in 1865 (Journal of the Civil War Era).

Presidency and Reconstruction

As the 18th President (1869–1877), Grant prioritized civil rights during Reconstruction, supporting the 15th Amendment and using federal authority to combat the Ku Klux Klan. His administration, however, was marred by corruption scandals, such as the Whiskey Ring, though Grant himself was not personally implicated (Journal of the Civil War Era).

Controversies and Complexities

Grant’s legacy is complicated. He briefly owned an enslaved man, William Jones, whom he freed in 1859 (The SF News), and his wartime General Orders No. 11, which expelled Jews from his military district, remains a point of contention. As President, his “Peace Policy” toward Native Americans, intended as reform, often led to displacement and hardship (Journal of the Civil War Era).

The Bust’s Artistic and Physical Features

Commissioned in 1896, Rupert Schmid’s bronze bust of Grant exemplified late 19th-century memorial art, with a granite pedestal symbolizing durability. Schmid’s realist style captured Grant’s resolute expression and military regalia, embodying leadership and endurance. The monument’s original placement in Golden Gate Park, surrounded by greenery and near other statues, created an inviting, contemplative space.

Conservation efforts over the years addressed environmental wear and, later, vandalism. The San Francisco Recreation & Parks Department has overseen its preservation (San Francisco Recreation and Park Department).

Location, Access, and Visitor Logistics

Directions and Public Transit

The former site of the Grant bust is located near the intersection of John F. Kennedy Drive and Music Concourse Drive in Golden Gate Park, adjacent to the de Young Museum and the California Academy of Sciences (noehill.com). The park spans over 1,000 acres and is accessible via:

From Union Square: Take the N Judah Muni Metro to 9th and Irving, then walk north into the park.
From Fisherman’s Wharf: Take the 30 bus to Chestnut and Laguna, transfer to the 28 bus to Park Presidio and Fulton, then walk into the park (sftourismtips.com).

Parking is limited on weekends; public transit or rideshare is recommended.

Visiting Hours and Admission

Golden Gate Park is open daily from 5:00 AM to midnight. The bust’s former site is freely accessible during these hours—no tickets or reservations are required. The monument itself is not currently on display; only the granite pedestal remains (wikipedia.org).

Accessibility

The park’s paths are wheelchair accessible and well-maintained. Restrooms, water fountains, and seating areas are nearby. The Music Concourse Garage offers accessible parking.

Nearby Amenities and Attractions

Within walking distance are:

de Young Museum: Fine arts, café, and gift shop.
California Academy of Sciences: Aquarium, planetarium, and natural history museum.
Japanese Tea Garden: Tranquil garden, open daily.
San Francisco Botanical Garden: Over 60,000 plant species.
Conservatory of Flowers: Historic greenhouse with rare plants.

Food vendors and picnic areas are available, especially near the Music Concourse.

The 2020 Toppling and Ongoing Debate

On June 19, 2020 (Juneteenth), the Grant bust was toppled during protests addressing racial injustice and the legacy of public monuments (NBC Bay Area). No arrests were made. The event generated significant public debate:

Supporters of Removal: Argued that monuments should reflect contemporary values of equality and justice, emphasizing Grant’s early slave ownership (Newsweek).
Opponents: Pointed to Grant’s leadership in preserving the Union and advancing civil rights, criticizing the destruction as “ignorant” and calling for due process (Newsweek).
Broader Context: The removal was part of a nationwide and international reassessment of monuments linked to oppression (NBC Bay Area).

The granite pedestal remains, and debate continues over restoration (change.org).

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Is the Bust of Ulysses S. Grant on display?
A: No, the bust was removed in 2020. The pedestal remains in Golden Gate Park.

Q: Are tickets required to visit the site?
A: No. The site is a public space with free access during park hours.

Q: What are the best times to visit?
A: Weekday mornings are quieter. Spring and early summer offer vibrant blooms.

Q: Is the site wheelchair accessible?
A: Yes, the main paths and surroundings are accessible.

Q: Are guided tours available?
A: Some walking tours of Golden Gate Park include the area, but the bust itself is absent.

Q: What else is nearby?
A: The de Young Museum, California Academy of Sciences, Japanese Tea Garden, and other gardens.

Recommendations for Visitors

Combine Destinations: Pair your visit to the bust’s site with trips to nearby museums and gardens for a full day of exploration.
Respect the Space: Do not climb or deface the granite pedestal.
Photography: Capture images of the site, surrounding gardens, and cultural landmarks.
Learn and Reflect: Research the monument’s history and significance to deepen your understanding.
Stay Updated: Check the San Francisco Recreation & Parks Department and Golden Gate Park’s official website for news about events or restoration.

Conclusion and Call to Action

The Bust of Ulysses S. Grant site in Golden Gate Park invites visitors to reflect on the complexities of American history and the evolving nature of public memory. While the original monument is absent, the location remains a meaningful place for contemplation and engagement with questions of legacy, justice, and remembrance. Take advantage of the park’s cultural richness, utilize digital resources like the Audiala app for guided tours, and stay connected through social media for the latest updates on San Francisco’s historical sites.