On July 26, 2023 at 7:00 p.m., local historian Woody LaBounty will appear at the 4 Star Theatre to share a visual history of Richmond District’s past as the home of roadhouses, racetracks, and individuals of dubious character.

From the 1890s to the 1910s, the neighborhood north of San Francisco’s Golden Gate Park was primarily sand dunes with bars, saloons, and roadhouse retreats catering to a sporting set drawn by the park, open roads, and horse races. Using historical photos, maps, and illustrations, LaBounty will trace the beginnings of what came to be called “Beertown” and explain how the former entertainment district faded into today’s avenues of houses and apartment buildings.

LaBounty is a researcher and author who writes weekly on San Francisco history at SanFranciscoStory.com.