Historical information

The history of the InterContinental Mark Hopkins San Francisco is rooted in the Gilded Age mansion built by railroad tycoon Mark Hopkins on Nob Hill, which burned down after the 1906 earthquake. The current hotel was constructed in its place and opened in 1926, retaining the opulent spirit of its predecessor through its Renaissance Revival-style architecture and historical features, such as the "Top of the Mark" lounge. One of San Francisco’s "Big Four," Mark Hopkins was among those who founded what became the great Southern Pacific Railroad. In 1925, mining engineer and hotel investor George D. Smith bought the land where the Hopkins estate was built with the desire to build a luxury hotel. San Franciscans declared the new “Mark Hopkins Hotel” to be, "architecturally perfect, flawless in its erection, comprehensive in its accommodations, strikingly representative of the best there is in modern hostelry." The Mark Hopkins Hotel quickly became an immediate part of San Francisco’s rich and colorful history. This famous hotel is still in existence today.

Physical description

Two identical coloured vintage postcards from the Top of the Mark bar at Hotel Mark Hopkins in San Francisco in the early 1900's. Guests are illustrated seated in their fine clothes enjoying drinks together. The curved bar is in the background. The whole scene overlooks the Bay of San Francisco at night through the large glass windows. On the back of the cards is room for writing a message and address, postage information and facts from the General manager.

Inscriptions & markings

'Top of the Mark' is printed on the front of the cards at the bottom right, as well as Hotel Mark Hopkins, Nob Hill, San Fransisco' 'Private Mailing Card' 'The Mark Hopkins will be happy to stamp and mail' Plus general information about the hotel from the General Manager.