Falling tree crushes roof of landmark clubhouse at San Francisco’s Stern Grove

The historic clubhouse at San Francisco’s Stern Grove was severely damaged over the weekend by a falling tree, the city’s parks department said.

Rangers said they responded to an alarm at the Trocadero Clubhouse at 5:30 a.m. Saturday. They found that an 85-foot eucalyptus had fallen onto the building, crushing part of the roof, and that the interior had been flooded by water from the sprinkler system.

The building was red-tagged because of the structural and water damage.

“This is soul-crushing,” said San Francisco Recreation and Park General Manager Phil Ginsburg in a press release. “The Trocadero and Stern Grove are San Francisco treasures. It will take political leadership, resources and community resolve to put the Trocadero back together again.”

Officially recognized as a city landmark last year, the Trocadero was built in 1892 as a roadhouse that offered dancing and roulette. The clubhouse was once operated by sugar magnate Adolph Spreckles, and also served as a hideout for notorious political grafter Abe Ruef in 1907 as he faced trial.

Stern Grove has been closed to the public since late last year because storms have caused numerous trees to fall or become unstable.

The Trocadero, a popular spot for weddings and other events, had been available by reservation on the weekends. Parks officials will be contacting those with upcoming events to offer them alternative venues or refunds.

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