1. History

Once a central hub for the Coastal Miwok, the land now known as San Anselmo was granted to the Sais family by the Mexican government in the mid 1800s and became an area where cattle were raised. 

In 1875, the North Pacific Coast Railroad created a line that ran from Sausalito to the then populous town of Tomales through San Anselmo. In 1892, the San Francisco Theological Seminary was built. The seminary, which was patterned after the Basilica of St. Francis of Assisi, sparked the beginning of the town’s growth.

After the 1906 earthquake, many San Francisco residents who had built summer homes in San Anselmo ended up moving there permanently. The building of the Golden Gate Bridge in 1937 also led to a large influx of residents. The population swelled to around 12,000 during that time, and remains about the same today.

3. Restaurants, Shopping, Things to do

San Anselmo’s beautiful downtown runs parallel to Sir Francis Drake Blvd., along San Anselmo Avenue. Full of shopping and restaurants, it’s definitely worth a visit. 

Susan’s Store Room was my absolute favorite toy store as a young child. Walking into this store felt like walking into some place truly magical. It is an amazing toy store. Further down the road you’ll find Longway, which carries ethically-produced clothing from California and Peru. Another great shop is Kismet, which has women’s clothing and accessories. 

Hungry? Try Comforts. This restaurant serves everything, with both take-out and dine-in service. Their Chinese Chicken Salad and Chicken Okasan are my favorites! Another option is M.H. Bread and Butter, a cafe and bakery. They make the most delicious breads, sandwiches, and salads. Try their Cubano sandwich! 

Just two blocks from downtown is the Robson-Harrington Park. With a 20th century mansion, community gardens, picnic areas, and extensive grounds to wander, it is a must-see when visiting San Anselmo.