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The last reminder of San Jose's electric light tower was the Tower Saloon, demolished around 1960. The Mercury News (11/30/59) anticpates the wanton destruction of this historical tavern, "The tired old Tower Saloon will be torn down. And the San Francisco Federal Savings & Loan Assn., ... will build a garden-type, one-story building complete with outdoor patios, courtyards and a decorative pool ... That'll mean the end of an era in San Jose -- and a bright new future for once-shabby Market Street."

The destruction of The Tower Saloon was a travesty. It would have stood a proud monument to the Light Tower, and a beacon of relief for thirsty downtown souls.

In 1884 San Jose had 2,200 voters - and 108 saloons. Still no threat to New Orleans.

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