Fair Pavilion

The Fair Pavilion, a large barn-like structure, was built in 1883 near the San Lorenzo River on Arcan Street (today's short section of Soquel Avenue between the river and Pacific Avenue). For many years, Helen Williams (SWC, page 165) owned a large parcel that included the Fair Pavilion site, and which for many years prevented extension of Front Street past Arcan Street. The building later (probably after the castle-like front section was added) became the U.S. Naval Reserve Armory (as shown in the photo), until it burned down in 1920.

• Rowland says that the home of E. L. Williams (son of Helen) previously occupied the Fair Pavilion site.
• See History Pages: 50 - Downtown expanded south in the 1880s, which includes a Sanborn map showing the Fair Pavilion's location.