One of my walking routes takes me around the Polo Fields in Golden Gate Park.

While navigating the dirt walking track I pass a small octagonal brown and green small shack. I’ve always wondered what it was. Was it a concession stand for polo matches or some type of observation platform? Where was the historical marker that explained? It was absent.

The Polo Fields has served many purposes over the years.

Shortly after the San Francisco 1906 Earthquake and Fire the grounds opened on July 4, 1906. It was originally designed for horse racing, cycling, and other sports. Polo was played here from the 1920s through the 1950s.

The octagonal build was used as a judge’s observation kiosk for races around the track. I’m not sure that this building has been used for many years.

In the 1960s the venue became part of the Summer of Love in 1967 with the Be In Festival.

Jerry Garcia’s wake was held here in August of 1995. Now the Polo Field is used for soccer and ultimate frisbee.