First Normal School

The school this bronze names began in San Francisco, which the plaque never says. The city's Board of Education opened it in 1857 as an evening class for teachers under George W. Minns, and the state normal school that grew out of it met in San Francisco until the legislature sent it here; it moved to San Jose in 1871. San Francisco State University also counts a San Francisco teacher-training program of 1857, the same evening school, as its own beginning, so two public universities trace themselves to one start.

What the plaque says

First Normal School Founded as "Minns' Evening Normal School" in 1857, the school became the State Normal School by act of the state legislature on May 2, 1862. In 1870 the state legislature chose Washington Square as a permanent location. Destroyed by fire on February 11, 1880, and heavily damaged by the April 18, 1906 earthquake, the school was rebuilt after each disaster to remain California's first public institution of higher learning. California Registered Historical Landmark No. 417 Plaque placed by the State Department of Parks and Recreation in cooperation with Sourisseau Academy, San Jose State University Alumni, and Mountain Charlie Chapter No. 1850, E Clampus Vitus, April 24, 1982.

Where it stands

More markers nearby

• Site of World's First Broadcasting Station — 0.3 mi
• Site of California's First State Capitol — 0.4 mi
• United States Post Office — 0.4 mi
• St. Joseph's Catholic Church — 0.4 mi