Construction began this week to repair the iconic Trocadero Clubhouse in Sigmund Stern Grove, the San Francisco Recreation and Park Department announced today. The San Francisco Historical Landmark, long a popular spot for weddings and events, was severely damaged last year when a storm toppled an 85-foot eucalyptus tree, partially crushing its roof and triggering a deluge from its interior sprinkler system.  

The work to restore the Trocadero to its historic condition is extensive. Workers will replace the roof, rafters, eave, cupola, framing, windows, walls, finishes, wood molding, floors and lights, while salvaging as much original material as possible.  

The $2.5 million project is being funded through Rec. and Park’s general fund, with an expected reimbursement through the Federal Emergency Management Agency. Rec. and Park is partnering with Public Works for construction management and engineering. Architectural Resources Group is handling conservation and preservation from damage assessment through construction. 

The Trocadero Clubhouse is expected to reopen to the public by the end of 2024. Construction will not impact public access to Stern Grove.  

“I’m glad we could save the Trocadero. It’s a gem of San Francisco history from its days as a dance and gambling hall to a place that created lasting memories for generations of residents who held their weddings and community events in the Trocadero. There’s nothing else like it and we need to hold on to these gems of our past as we create our best San Francisco,” said District 4 Supervisor Joel Engardio, who represents the Sunset neighborhoods near Stern Grove. 

“The Trocadero has been a place for connection, celebration and fun for well over a century. It’s a San Francisco treasure and we’re thrilled to start the work of restoring it to its former glory,” said San Francisco Recreation and Park General Manager Phil Ginsburg.  

The damage to the Trocadero Clubhouse was discovered March 11, 2023, when rangers responded to an early morning alarm. The Department of Building Inspection subsequently red-tagged the building due to both structural and water damage. 

Built in 1892, the Trocadero Clubhouse boasts a colorful history as a roadhouse at the turn of the 20th century, when it offered dancing and roulette tables. This was followed by a series of operators who leased the resort, including sugar magnate Adolph Spreckels who took over for a brief period. In an infamous moment in 1907, notorious political grafter Abe Ruef used the out-of-the-way place as a hideout from an indictment court date.  

It is architecturally and historically significant as an example of Stick-Eastlake architectural style and as the city’s last intact example of a 19th century roadhouse. It was renovated in 1986 due to extensive use and weathering. The Board of Supervisors approved the Trocadero’s designation as a San Francisco Designated Landmark on April 5, 2022.