"San Jose's era of illuminating gas officially ended on August 9, 1930.
On that date an electric light replaced the city's last surviving gas street lamp."
Clyde Arbuckle



San Jose Postcard, circa 1910

Page 6 Page 7

Page 8

From the moment the tower was electrified detracters vilified it. The tower was referred to as a "white elephant" and "Owens Folley." It did not, in fact, light up San Jose - as was advertised prior to construction. But it was a unique and grand experiment. Not everything has to have a purpose, or work, to be a joy.


Page 6  Page 7

Page 8