964
Birthplace of the United Nations, War Memorial Complex
- Group 3
- Civic Center, 400 Block of Van Ness Ave, San Francisco
- View Map
In the waning days of World War II the leaders of the soon to be victorious Allies determined the need for a new organization to replace the defunct League Of Nations. An international conference was required to form the new entity and San Francisco, due to its location - equidistant between Europe, Asia, and South America - was chosen for the site. Other factors leading to the City’s selection were its cosmopolitan atmosphere, delightful climate, and excellent restaurants.
The conference was convened on April 25, 1945, and included 850 delegates from 50 countries, over 2,600 support staff, and 2,500 media personnel. The United Nations Charter was adopted unanimously and signed on June 26, 1945, thus successfully concluding the proceedings.
Plaque
Inscription
President Franklin D. Roosevelt designated the War Memorial Complex in San Francisco to be the place that the United Nations Conference for International Organization would convene on April 25, 1945. Fifty nations participated in the drafting of the United Nations Charter which was unanimously adopted June 25 and signed by representatives of the 50 nations in the War Memorial Veterans Building on June 26. The site of the signing of the Charter is one of the most significant historical landmarks sites in the world for 20th century events.
Note: there is presently no state marker on site. Inscription provided by the Office of Historic Preservation, CA State Parks.
