San Francisco, a city renowned for its progressive values and vibrant history, is home to many iconic streets. Among them is Bush Street, a thoroughfare that, while not directly named after former President George W. Bush, has become a point of contention for some residents. This article delves into the debate surrounding Bush Street, exploring the calls for a name change and the historical context behind this San Francisco street name.
The proposition to rename Bush Street might seem radical to some, but it stems from a sentiment deeply rooted in San Francisco’s political landscape. For a city that overwhelmingly opposed the George W. Bush administration, the presence of a street bearing his surname feels like an unwelcome reminder. While street names have been altered before in San Francisco, the idea of changing Bush Street raises questions about historical legacy, local identity, and the power of names in shaping public perception.
The call to rename Bush Street isn’t merely a symbolic gesture; it reflects a desire to align the city’s physical landscape with its prevailing values. San Francisco consistently demonstrated its political stance against George W. Bush, with city voters overwhelmingly rejecting him in both the 2000 and 2004 presidential elections. Given this strong opposition, the question arises: why maintain a prominent street name that inadvertently evokes a figure so contrary to the city’s ethos?
Interestingly, the origins of the name “Bush Street” are shrouded in some mystery. Contrary to popular assumption, it was not named after the 43rd President of the United States. Unraveling the true namesake of Bush Street proves to be a historical puzzle, with two main theories emerging, neither definitively confirmed.
One theory suggests that Bush Street was named after Dr. Jonathan P. Bush. However, historical records indicate that Dr. Bush arrived in San Francisco in 1849, while maps dating back to 1847 already depict a street bearing the name “Bush Street.” This timeline discrepancy casts doubt on the Dr. Bush theory.
A more plausible, yet unverified, account surfaced in an 1893 Chronicle article. A man claiming to be J.P. Bush recounted arriving in San Francisco in 1845 as a cabin boy. He then allegedly became an assistant to Jasper O’Farrell, the surveyor tasked with mapping San Francisco’s streets. According to this account, O’Farrell named Bush Street in honor of his assistant.
Regardless of its true origin, the reality remains that the namesake of Bush Street is not a figure of significant historical importance. In contemporary San Francisco, the name is primarily associated with a president whose policies were widely rejected by the city’s residents.
The issue is further compounded by the city’s international appeal and tourism sector. While locals understand the historical context (or lack thereof) behind Bush Street, tourists, particularly those from countries where George W. Bush’s policies were unpopular, might perceive the street name differently. For visitors, especially those from nations critical of the Bush administration, encountering “Bush Street” in San Francisco could create an unwelcoming impression, potentially impacting the city’s image and tourism. With Bush Street traversing through areas frequented by tourists, including Chinatown, the argument for a name change gains further weight.
The presence of the French Consulate on Bush Street adds another layer of irony to this discussion. France’s vocal opposition to the Iraq War under George W. Bush is well-documented. For the French Consulate, and numerous French businesses including Café de la Presse, to be located on a street that shares a name with a figure who strained Franco-American relations seems particularly incongruous. The annual Bastille Day celebrations on Bush Street, a vibrant event for the French community in San Francisco, further highlight this peculiar juxtaposition.
San Francisco has a history of renaming streets to reflect evolving community values and honor significant figures. The renaming of Army Street to Cesar Chavez Street in the Mission District serves as a notable precedent. This change, achieved through community advocacy, demonstrates the city’s capacity to modify its street names to better represent its cultural and political landscape.
Proponents of renaming Bush Street believe that such a move would garner national attention, placing San Francisco in the spotlight for its progressive stance. Timing the name change before the end of George W. Bush’s presidency was considered strategically advantageous, amplifying the statement’s impact. While acknowledging potential criticism from conservative media outlets, advocates argue that the widespread unpopularity of George W. Bush would render such attacks ineffective and even highlight the disconnect between certain media narratives and public sentiment.
When considering a new name for Bush Street, several prominent San Franciscans emerge as worthy candidates. The late Mayor George Moscone, a transformative figure in San Francisco politics, is one suggestion. Despite the Moscone Center already bearing his name, dedicating a street to him could further solidify his legacy, particularly coinciding with the 30th anniversary of his death in 2008.
Emperor Norton, a beloved and eccentric historical figure of San Francisco, is another compelling option. While a previous attempt to rename the Bay Bridge in his honor faced obstacles, renaming Bush Street could serve as a fitting tribute to this unique San Francisco icon.
Other suggested names include Mark Twain, who famously quipped about San Francisco’s summer weather, and Sue Bierman, a respected former Supervisor known for her role in the “Great Freeway Revolt.” These suggestions underscore the wealth of notable San Franciscans who could be honored by renaming Bush Street.
The process for renaming Bush Street could begin with a resolution from the Board of Supervisors expressing support for the change. This could be followed by public hearings to gather name suggestions from the community. A shortlist of potential names could then be presented to voters as a ballot measure, allowing San Franciscans to directly participate in choosing the new name for this debated street. With upcoming elections often lacking in local excitement, such a ballot measure could even boost voter engagement.
In conclusion, the debate surrounding Bush Street in San Francisco is more than just a discussion about semantics. It’s a reflection of the city’s political identity, its relationship with national figures, and its commitment to aligning its public spaces with its values. Renaming Bush Street presents an opportunity for San Francisco to make a statement, honor local heroes, and ensure that its street names resonate positively with both residents and visitors alike.
