• You were a huge fan of the local band Journey—and their big hair. You saw them play at Golden Gate Park and maybe you were even lucky enough to go to high school with Neal Schon (pictured far left). Photo: Courtesy Colombia Records
Photo: Courtesy Colombia Records
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You were a huge fan of the local band Journey—and their big hair. You saw them play at Golden Gate Park and maybe you were even lucky enough to go to high school with Neal Schon (pictured far left).
You were a huge fan of the local band Journey—and their big hair. You saw them play at Golden Gate Park and maybe you were even lucky enough to go to high school with Neal Schon (pictured far left).
Photo: Courtesy Colombia Records
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You saw Willie Mays hit a homer at Candlestick Park. Mays played for the Giants until 1972, and famously got career hit No. 3000 in the second inning of the Giants' game against the Montreal Expos on July 18, 1970. less
You saw Willie Mays hit a homer at Candlestick Park. Mays played for the Giants until 1972, and famously got career hit No. 3000 in the second inning of the Giants' game against the Montreal Expos on July 18, ... more
Photo: Focus On Sport/Focus On Sport/Getty Images
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You remember the opening of BART and feared traveling through an underwater tube. The Bay Area transportation system officially opened on Sept. 11, 1972, initially between the MacArther and Fremont stations. The Transbay Tube opened in 1974. Train failures were common in BART's early days. In this photo, patrons enter the Oakland City Center BART station on the opening day. less
You remember the opening of BART and feared traveling through an underwater tube. The Bay Area transportation system officially opened on Sept. 11, 1972, initially between the MacArther and Fremont stations. ... more
Photo: Charles B. Peterson, The Chronicle
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You wore groovy clothes. Polyester was the material of choice and bright colors dominated. In this 1971 photo, a man wears matching pants and sweater. In the background, you can see the U.S. Mint and Hotel Pickwick. A commenter identified the vintage cars as (from left): a 1968-72 Opel Kadett (B) wagon, 1962 Mercury Comet, 1971 Plymouth Fury and behind the Fury, a '68-69 Buick Skylark.

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You wore groovy clothes. Polyester was the material of choice and bright colors dominated. In this 1971 photo, a man wears matching pants and sweater. In the background, you can see the U.S. Mint and Hotel

... more
Photo: Nick DeWolf/Flickr
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You saw Dianne Feinstein pose in a Sutro Baths bathing suit at the opening of Pier 39. Feinstein was the President of the Board of Supervisors at the time, and wore the suit at the opening after losing a bet that the tourism center would open on time. The park opened on October 4, 1978.  less
You saw Dianne Feinstein pose in a Sutro Baths bathing suit at the opening of Pier 39. Feinstein was the President of the Board of Supervisors at the time, and wore the suit at the opening after losing a bet ... more
Photo: Jerry Telfer, The Chronicle
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You remember trips across the Bay Bridge with no traffic. You also remember the old eastern span. This photo was taken in 1971.

You remember trips across the Bay Bridge with no traffic. You also remember the old eastern span. This photo was taken in 1971.

Photo: Nick DeWolf/Flickr
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You were a fan of the Dead Kennedys. This punk rock band formed in San Francisco in 1978 and became known for its politically charged songs. They frequently played at the North Beach nightclub Mabuhay Gardens. Their name was controversial. San Francisco Chronicle columnist Herb Caen wrote in November 1978, "Just when you think tastelessness has reached its nadir, along comes a punk rock group called 'The Dead Kennedys', which will play at Mabuhay Gardens on Nov. 22, the 15th anniversary of John F. Kennedy's assassination." (Pictured: Jello Biafra of the Dead Kennedys) less
You were a fan of the Dead Kennedys. This punk rock band formed in San Francisco in 1978 and became known for its politically charged songs. They frequently played at the North Beach nightclub Mabuhay Gardens. ... more
Photo: John O'Hara, San Francisco Chronicle
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You remember Candlestick Park with AstroTurf. The natural bluegrass was torn up and the AstroTurf rolled out in 1970. The real grass returned again following the 1978 football season. This photo shows a stolen Piece of AstroTurf at Candlestick Park on Dec. 12, 1978.  less
You remember Candlestick Park with AstroTurf. The natural bluegrass was torn up and the AstroTurf rolled out in 1970. The real grass returned again following the 1978 football season. This photo shows a stolen ... more
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You were an activist. You marched in protests and mourned the loss of trailblazing leader and Supervisor Harvey Milk, who was the first openly gay man elected to public office in America. This photo is from December 1978 on the the wall of the Bank of America at Castro and Market. (Photo: (c) Jerry Pritikin) less
You were an activist. You marched in protests and mourned the loss of trailblazing leader and Supervisor Harvey Milk, who was the first openly gay man elected to public office in America. This photo is from ... more
Photo: Jerry Pritikin
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You rode the cable car with friends—and didn't take selfies. Riding the cable car was was pretty much the same experience for tourists of 1971 as it is today—although fares cost less, lines were shorter and nobody was taking dozens of photos.

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You rode the cable car with friends—and didn't take selfies. Riding the cable car was was pretty much the same experience for tourists of 1971 as it is today—although fares cost less, lines were shorter and

... more
Photo: Nick DeWolf/Flickr
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You'll never forget the day it snowed: Feb. 5, 1976. It was a rare San Francisco snow day, and the white stuff actually stuck to the ground.
You'll never forget the day it snowed: Feb. 5, 1976. It was a rare San Francisco snow day, and the white stuff actually stuck to the ground.
Photo: Clem Albers, The Chronicle
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You remember Grimes Poznikoff, aka "The Human Jukebox." He was a fixture on Fisherman's Wharf in the 1970s and 80s, and waited in a cardboard refrigerator box until someone gave him a donation and requested a song. Then he'd pop out of the front flap and play the song on a trumpet, kazoo or other random instrument. Here he's pictured circa 1978.

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You remember Grimes Poznikoff, aka "The Human Jukebox." He was a fixture on Fisherman's Wharf in the 1970s and 80s, and waited in a cardboard refrigerator box until someone gave him a donation and requested a

... more
Photo: Jordan Weinstein
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You never saw Carol Doda perform live—but you knew who she was. America's first public topless dancer was a huge draw in North Beach in the '60s and '70s.

You never saw Carol Doda perform live—but you knew who she was. America's first public topless dancer was a huge draw in North Beach in the '60s and '70s.

Photo: Nick DeWolf/Flickr
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You feared the "Zodiac" killer. The Zodiac killer is blamed for at least five murders in 1968 and 1969 in the San Francisco Bay Area. Though other serial killers have had more victims, the "Zodiac" intrigued and terrified the public with his mysterious ways. He sent suspected letters to the Vallejo Times Herald, San Francisco Chronicle and other newspapers as late as 1974, warning he'd strike again. He was never caught, though many, including author Robert Graysmith, believe he was Arthur Leigh Allen, a Vallejo man who who died in 1992.

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You feared the "Zodiac" killer. The Zodiac killer is blamed for at least five murders in 1968 and 1969 in the San Francisco Bay Area. Though other serial killers have had more victims, the "Zodiac" intrigued

... more
Photo: Bettmann/Bettmann Archive
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You stopped to listen to the many musicians and buskers on city streets. Back then you actually stopped to listen because you weren't wearing headphones and listing to your playlist on your phone as you walked by. This street musician strums and sings for tips at Pier 45 on Fisherman's Wharf in 1971. Behind him is the now-demolished Tait's at the Wharf.

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You stopped to listen to the many musicians and buskers on city streets. Back then you actually stopped to listen because you weren't wearing headphones and listing to your playlist on your phone as you walked

... more
Photo: Nick DeWolf/Flickr
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You learned to drive in the parking lot of the White Front discount variety store. This store's massive parking lot was the perfect place for teenagers to learn to drive. "All my friends learned to drive there," wrote one S.F. local in the Facebook group San Francisco Remembered. White Front was a cross between a Kohl's and a dollar store and the one in S.F. was located at 16th and Bryant streets, the current location of the SoMa Safeway. (Note: This photo is pre-70s and was taken on Dec. 17, 1968) less
You learned to drive in the parking lot of the White Front discount variety store. This store's massive parking lot was the perfect place for teenagers to learn to drive. "All my friends learned to drive ... more
Photo: Art Frisch, The Chronicle
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You stayed up late to watch Bob Wilkins on "Creature Features." The cigar-wielding host introduced underground flicks with titles like "Attack of the Mushroom People" on the late-night movie show airing on KTVU's Channel 2 through the 1970s. In this photo, Wilkins sits with co-host John Stanley. less
You stayed up late to watch Bob Wilkins on "Creature Features." The cigar-wielding host introduced underground flicks with titles like "Attack of the Mushroom People" on the late-night movie show airing on ... more
Photo: KQED
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You grieved the loss of 918 lives from a mass suicide and murder led by Jim Jones. Religious cult leader Jim Jones moved the Peoples Temple from Indiana to California in the 1960s, and made a name for himself with the cult's activities in San Franciscoin the early 1970s. Jones moved his clan to Guyana in the summer of 1977 after a Chronicle reporter published an exposé scrutinizing the cult. When U.S. Congressman Leo Ryan led a delegation into the commune for an investigation, Jones committed a mass-murder suicide; most were killed by a cyanide poisoning with a Flavor Aid.  less
You grieved the loss of 918 lives from a mass suicide and murder led by Jim Jones. Religious cult leader Jim Jones moved the Peoples Temple from Indiana to California in the 1960s, and made a name for himself ... more
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You feasted on Blum's Coffee Crunch Cake. This heavenly dessert was invented by Ernest Weil, the operations manager of the late bakery soda fountain chain, Blum's, with a location in the basement of the downtown Macy's. (Note: The photo features a modern-day re-creation of the cake.) less
You feasted on Blum's Coffee Crunch Cake. This heavenly dessert was invented by Ernest Weil, the operations manager of the late bakery soda fountain chain, Blum's, with a location in the basement of the ... more
Photo: Liz Hafalia, The Chronicle
Buy this photo
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You ate hot dogs at a Doggie Diner. At one point there were more than two dozen in the Bay Area. The last one closed in 1986. Its founder Al Ross died in 2010, at age 93. RIP Doggie Diner. (Susan Ehmer / The Chronicle 1978) less
You ate hot dogs at a Doggie Diner. At one point there were more than two dozen in the Bay Area. The last one closed in 1986. Its founder Al Ross died in 2010, at age 93. RIP Doggie Diner. (Susan Ehmer / The ... more
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You mourned the closing of Playland-at-the-Beach in 1972. In this photo, Bill Smit, 74, rides a Playland-at-the-Beach carousel horse one more time on the day before the ride went up for auction. 
You mourned the closing of Playland-at-the-Beach in 1972. In this photo, Bill Smit, 74, rides a Playland-at-the-Beach carousel horse one more time on the day before the ride went up for auction. 
Photo: Clem Albers / Clem Albers / The Chronicle 1972
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You appreciated Dr. Don Rose's corny one-liners on KFRC "The Big 610." Dr. Rose's top-40 show was No. 1 rated virtually from its 1973 start until the station changed to a big band format in 1986.  
You appreciated Dr. Don Rose's corny one-liners on KFRC "The Big 610." Dr. Rose's top-40 show was No. 1 rated virtually from its 1973 start until the station changed to a big band format in 1986.  
Photo: Ho
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You shopped for jewelry from the stalls lining Fisherman's Wharf. This was an era of craftspeople and many sold their goods around the city. Photo taken circa 1978.

You shopped for jewelry from the stalls lining Fisherman's Wharf. This was an era of craftspeople and many sold their goods around the city. Photo taken circa 1978.

Photo: Jordan Weinstein
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Your swim team coach was Charlie Sava. He coached Olympic Swimmer Ann Curtis and hundreds of other S.F. kids. Photo taken on Aug. 13, 1987 of Ann Curtis, Charlie Sava and Wendy Nelder at the dedication of the Charlie Sava Pool in the Sunset District. Sava died on his way to work at the pool in 1987. (Pete Breinig / The Chronicle) less
Your swim team coach was Charlie Sava. He coached Olympic Swimmer Ann Curtis and hundreds of other S.F. kids. Photo taken on Aug. 13, 1987 of Ann Curtis, Charlie Sava and Wendy Nelder at the dedication of the ... more
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You listened to KYA Radio. And you remember the Matthew's TV and Stereo commercials: "Top of the hill, Daly City!"
You listened to KYA Radio. And you remember the Matthew's TV and Stereo commercials: "Top of the hill, Daly City!"
Photo: KYA
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You saw a Day on the Green concert at the Oakland Coliseum. Presented by promotor Bill Graham, the lineup in the 70s was extraordinary: Led Zeppelin, Grateful Dead, The Beach Boys, Eagles, Fleetwood Mac and The Who (pictured). less
You saw a Day on the Green concert at the Oakland Coliseum. Presented by promotor Bill Graham, the lineup in the 70s was extraordinary: Led Zeppelin, Grateful Dead, The Beach Boys, Eagles, Fleetwood Mac and ... more
Photo: Michael Zagaris, Reel Art Press
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You ate many hard-roll sandwiches from Panelli Brothers Deli. The brothers closed their North Beach establishment in 2002 after 82 years in business. 
You ate many hard-roll sandwiches from Panelli Brothers Deli. The brothers closed their North Beach establishment in 2002 after 82 years in business. 
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You bought your vinyl at Tower Records. You also lined up at the music store for concert tickets. Pictured: Tower Records at Bay Street and Columbus Avenue in San Francisco: Once thriving -- and noisy -- it's now out of business. less
You bought your vinyl at Tower Records. You also lined up at the music store for concert tickets. Pictured: Tower Records at Bay Street and Columbus Avenue in San Francisco: Once thriving -- and noisy -- ... more
Photo: Chris Hardy, SFC
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You rode the Ferris wheel atop Emporium during the holidays. A holiday tradition at The Emporium was the roof rides which were hoisted onto the roofs of both The Emporium downtown and Stonestown stores each year.  less
You rode the Ferris wheel atop Emporium during the holidays. A holiday tradition at The Emporium was the roof rides which were hoisted onto the roofs of both The Emporium downtown and Stonestown stores each ... more
Photo: Photographer Unknown
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You remember the Embarcadero Freeway. The double-decker stretch of highway was demolished after the Loma Prieta Earthquake in 1989.

You remember the Embarcadero Freeway. The double-decker stretch of highway was demolished after the Loma Prieta Earthquake in 1989.

Photo: Nick DeWolf/Flickr
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You chowed down on French fries at Kerry's Lounge and Restaurant. It was located on Army Street near Van Ness and stayed open 24 hours. 
You chowed down on French fries at Kerry's Lounge and Restaurant. It was located on Army Street near Van Ness and stayed open 24 hours. 
Photo: Chris Stewart, The Chronicle
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You watched Robert Shields perform with his mime, Lorene Yarnell. Here he is pictured at Ghirardelli Square, January 13, 1975
You watched Robert Shields perform with his mime, Lorene Yarnell. Here he is pictured at Ghirardelli Square, January 13, 1975
Photo: Stephanie Maze, The Chronicle
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You rode an electric green-and-white bus to school. Here's the 9-Richland Line Electric Bus #859 pictured at Murray and Crescent on August 1976. Courtesy of OpenSFHistory.org.

You rode an electric green-and-white bus to school. Here's the 9-Richland Line Electric Bus #859 pictured at Murray and Crescent on August 1976. Courtesy of OpenSFHistory.org.

Photo: Courtesy Of OpenSFHistory.org
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You remember when a scene from "The Streets of San Francisco" was shot on your block. The crime drama starring Karl Malden, right, and Michael Douglas as detectives ran for five seasons between 1972 and 1977. Unlike today's shows that are mostly shot in Hollywood sets, this show was almost entirely shot on location in San Francisco.  less
You remember when a scene from "The Streets of San Francisco" was shot on your block. The crime drama starring Karl Malden, right, and Michael Douglas as detectives ran for five seasons between 1972 and 1977. ... more
Photo: Courtesy ABC TV/1975, AP
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You saw the Grateful Dead play at Winterland. Here Drummers Bill Kreutzmann and Mickey Hart perform on New Year's Eve 1977 with The Dead at Winterland. Lighting up behind the drummers are Phil Lesh, Bill Graham, Ken Kesey and roadie Steve Parrish.

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You saw the Grateful Dead play at Winterland. Here Drummers Bill Kreutzmann and Mickey Hart perform on New Year's Eve 1977 with The Dead at Winterland. Lighting up behind the drummers are Phil Lesh, Bill

... more
Photo: Ed Perlstein/Redferns
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You saw "Star Wars" at the Coronet. The theater at the corner of Geary Boulevard and Arguello Avenue was torn down to build senior housing. In this photo taken on May 28, 1977, movie-goers are getting out of the the 1 p.m. show show of "Star Wars" on opening day. The film went on to make more than $2 million in six months at the theater. less
You saw "Star Wars" at the Coronet. The theater at the corner of Geary Boulevard and Arguello Avenue was torn down to build senior housing. In this photo taken on May 28, 1977, movie-goers are getting out of ... more
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You traveled to Berkeley to buy your tie-dye on Telegraph Avenue. The trend stared in the 1960s and carried over into the 70s. This photo was taken in 1971 by photographer Nick DeWolf who traveled from Boston to the Bay Area to take photographs of the 1970s Bay Area.

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You traveled to Berkeley to buy your tie-dye on Telegraph Avenue. The trend stared in the 1960s and carried over into the 70s. This photo was taken in 1971 by photographer Nick DeWolf who traveled from Boston

... more
Photo: Nick DeWolf/Flickr
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You remember the smell of pot during the Laserium shows at the Morrison Planetarium at the California Academy of Sciences. The psychedelic rock planetarium show ran from 1974 to 2000. Pink Floyd, The Beatles and The Doors were favorite shows. less
You remember the smell of pot during the Laserium shows at the Morrison Planetarium at the California Academy of Sciences. The psychedelic rock planetarium show ran from 1974 to 2000. Pink Floyd, The Beatles ... more
Photo: Chronicle Archives
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Listening to jazz on the bandstand at Earthquake McGoon's. Turk Murphy's Jazz Band, pictured, were favorites at this venue.
Listening to jazz on the bandstand at Earthquake McGoon's. Turk Murphy's Jazz Band, pictured, were favorites at this venue.
Photo: Barney Peterson, Chronicle File
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You ate late-night at Zim's Hamburgers. This location pictured at 19th and Taraval was "closed for renovation" in August 1978, but in reality there was a strike.
You ate late-night at Zim's Hamburgers. This location pictured at 19th and Taraval was "closed for renovation" in August 1978, but in reality there was a strike.
Photo: Jerry Telfer, The Chronicle
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You celebrated a birthday at the Hippo on Van Ness. Remember the Hippo burger, the thick shakes and sweet birthday cakes?
You celebrated a birthday at the Hippo on Van Ness. Remember the Hippo burger, the thick shakes and sweet birthday cakes?
Photo: Susan Gilbert, The Chronicle
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You stared up in awe at the living Christmas tree under the dome in the City of Paris Department store. In this photo, mannequins on the second floor get a good view of the tree that rises to the top of the rotunda in San Francisco's City of Paris Department Store, Nov. 20, 1972. less
You stared up in awe at the living Christmas tree under the dome in the City of Paris Department store. In this photo, mannequins on the second floor get a good view of the tree that rises to the top of the ... more
Photo: Joe Rosenthal, San Francisco Chronicle
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You remember the opening of St. Mary's Cathedral. Here the church on Cathedral Hill is pictured during construction on Aug. 26, 1969. The cathedral replaced one of the same name that was built in 1891 and burned in 1962. less
You remember the opening of St. Mary's Cathedral. Here the church on Cathedral Hill is pictured during construction on Aug. 26, 1969. The cathedral replaced one of the same name that was built in 1891 and ... more
Photo: Stan Creighton, The Chronicle
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You rented roller skates in Golden Gate Park. In this December 1977 photo, a roller skate rental truck rents skates at the corner of Fulton Street and Eighth Avenue near Golden Gate Park.
You rented roller skates in Golden Gate Park. In this December 1977 photo, a roller skate rental truck rents skates at the corner of Fulton Street and Eighth Avenue near Golden Gate Park.
Photo: John Storey, The Chronicle
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You devoured a burger at Bill's Place. This Richmond spot on Clement Street is still going. All of its burgers are named after S.F. celebrities and the meat is ground fresh daily. (File photo)
You devoured a burger at Bill's Place. This Richmond spot on Clement Street is still going. All of its burgers are named after S.F. celebrities and the meat is ground fresh daily. (File photo)
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You remember the old California Academy of Sciences. The building was damaged in the 1989 Loma Prieta Earthquake and was relocated downtown to a temporary location before reopening after a complete overhaul in 2008.  less
You remember the old California Academy of Sciences. The building was damaged in the 1989 Loma Prieta Earthquake and was relocated downtown to a temporary location before reopening after a complete overhaul in ... more
Photo: Peter Breinig, The Chronicle, 1984
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You remember the buildings that burned on Alcatraz during the Indian occupation. The small island, formerly the location of a prison, was occupied by Native American activists between 1969 and 1971. This photo of the Alcatraz warden's house and lighthouse was taken a year after the mansion burned during the Indian occupation. The entire island was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1976.

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You remember the buildings that burned on Alcatraz during the Indian occupation. The small island, formerly the location of a prison, was occupied by Native American activists between 1969 and 1971. This photo

... more
Photo: Nick DeWolf/Flickr
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You remember when O.J. Simpson played for the 49ers. Simpson played for the 49ers from 1978-79. He's now better known for his trial and acquittal for the murders of his former wife Nicole Brown Simpson and her friend Ron Goldman.

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You remember when O.J. Simpson played for the 49ers. Simpson played for the 49ers from 1978-79. He's now better known for his trial and acquittal for the murders of his former wife Nicole Brown Simpson and her

... more
Photo: Focus On Sport/Getty Images
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You always went to Monkey Island first on visits to the San Francisco Zoo. The exhibit was damaged in the 1989 earthquake and razed in 1995.
You always went to Monkey Island first on visits to the San Francisco Zoo. The exhibit was damaged in the 1989 earthquake and razed in 1995.
Photo: Express-News Archives
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You jumped into the mosh pit at Mabuhay Gardens. This North Beach punk rock nightclub booked two bands a night seven days a week in its late-70s heyday. Frequent gigs were played by local bands the Avengers, Dead Kennedys, The Nuns, Crime, Dils, Pearl Harbor and the Explosions, the Tubes and Wall of Voodoo. The club's operator Dirksen also booked everyone from Iggy Pop and The Ramones to the Go Go's.  less
You jumped into the mosh pit at Mabuhay Gardens. This North Beach punk rock nightclub booked two bands a night seven days a week in its late-70s heyday. Frequent gigs were played by local bands the Avengers, ... more
Photo: Richard McCaffrey, Getty Images
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Tower Records at Columbus and Bay in San Francisco is seen in a file photo.
Tower Records at Columbus and Bay in San Francisco is seen in a file photo.
Photo: Chris Hardy, SFC
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The 1970s in San Francisco were flamboyant, alive, full of color and passion, marked by dark periods and electric highs.

To grow up in San Francisco in this prismatic era was extraordinary, and anyone who spent their early years here in the 1970s has vivid memories swirling around in the mind.

In the gallery above, we try to capture some, and we thank the Facebook page San Francisco Remembered and its active and knowledgeable community who helped create this list.

The Summer of Love was over, but the free-loving hippie spirit prevailed, and bohemians, buskers, bongo-drum players and jewelry makers thronged the city.

Now Playing:

Here are some of San Francisco's landmarks that you'll never see again. Which one was your favorite? Which one's do you miss the most?

Media: San Francisco Chronicle

Related Stories

The activism of the 1960s continued into the 1970s, and in San Francisco, Vietnam War protests drew tens of thousands until the war finally ended in 1975.

Local news events made national headlines including the assassinations of Mayor George Moscone and Supervisor Harvey Milk, who was the first openly gay man elected to public office in the U.S. Cult leader Jim Jones, who shocked the world by leading a mass suicide and murder in Guyana, had local ties.

The city was on the forefront of fashion, music and the counterculture movement. This was the era of big hair, tie-dye and platform boots; it's the decade that saw the transition from bell-bottoms to skintight jeans.

San Francisco gave birth to the Grateful Dead, Journey and West Coast jazz. At its height in the late 70s and 80s, Mabuhay Gardens nightclub in North Beach was the epicenter of the American punk rock scene and local band the Dead Kennedys performed regularly.

ALSO: Didn't grow up in S.F. in the 70s? Check out SFGATE's story on memories from the 80s or see some of the items in the slideshow below.

  • You remember Humphrey the Humpback Whale getting lost in San Francisco Bay.In this photo, Sheriff's Department and Coast Guard try to change Humphrey the whale 's course in the delta near Rio Vista. Photo: Roger Wyan, The Chronicle
Photo: Roger Wyan, The Chronicle
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You remember Humphrey the Humpback Whale getting lost in San Francisco Bay.

In this photo, Sheriff's Department and Coast Guard try to change Humphrey the whale 's course in the delta near Rio Vista.

You remember Humphrey the Humpback Whale getting lost in San Francisco Bay.

In this photo, Sheriff's Department and Coast Guard try to change Humphrey the whale 's course in the delta near Rio Vista.

Photo: Roger Wyan, The Chronicle
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You celebrated a birthday at the Hippo on Van Ness.

Remember the Hippo burger, the thick shakes and sweet birthday cakes?

You celebrated a birthday at the Hippo on Van Ness.

Remember the Hippo burger, the thick shakes and sweet birthday cakes?

Photo: Susan Gilbert, The Chronicle
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You saw Madonna perform at the San Francisco Civic Auditorium on April 23, 1985. 

You saw Madonna perform at the San Francisco Civic Auditorium on April 23, 1985. 

Photo: Clayton Call/Redferns
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You shopped at CP Shades.

Big baggie clothes made from natural fabrics.

You shopped at CP Shades.

Big baggie clothes made from natural fabrics.

Photo: Liz Hafalia, The Chronicle
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You got stood up by local musician and surfer Chris Isaak at any number of venues when the waves were good.
You got stood up by local musician and surfer Chris Isaak at any number of venues when the waves were good.
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You loved the movie "E.T.: The Extra-Terrestrial"

And knew that director Steven Spielberg graduated from Saratoga High School.

You loved the movie "E.T.: The Extra-Terrestrial"

And knew that director Steven Spielberg graduated from Saratoga High School.

Photo: Uncredited, Associated Press
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You adored Huey Lewis because he was a local boy. 

You were also a fan because he was adorable, his music fun and upbeat--and hey, he had "the power of love."

You adored Huey Lewis because he was a local boy. 

You were also a fan because he was adorable, his music fun and upbeat--and hey, he had "the power of love."

Photo: Rans Schellekens/Redferns, Getty
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You put on your fish nets for late-night screenings of 'The Rocky Horror Picture Show' at the UC Theatre in Berkeley.
You put on your fish nets for late-night screenings of 'The Rocky Horror Picture Show' at the UC Theatre in Berkeley.
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You know Mrs. Grossman as the sticker queen.

Your bedroom dresser or maybe your school binder was covered in her glossy red hearts. You went on a tour of her factory in Petaluma and were thrilled to return home with free stickers.

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You know Mrs. Grossman as the sticker queen.

Your bedroom dresser or maybe your school binder was covered in her glossy red hearts. You went on a tour of her factory in Petaluma and were thrilled to return home

... more
Photo: Sean Culligan, The Chronicle
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You remember the old California Academy of Sciences.

The entrance is pictured here on Dec. 4, 1984.

You remember the old California Academy of Sciences.

The entrance is pictured here on Dec. 4, 1984.

Photo: Peter Breinig, The Chronicle, 1984
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You remember the smell of pot during the Laserium shows at the Morrison Planetarium at the California Academy of Sciences.

Pink Floyd and The Doors were favorite shows.

You remember the smell of pot during the Laserium shows at the Morrison Planetarium at the California Academy of Sciences.

Pink Floyd and The Doors were favorite shows.

Photo: Chronicle Archives
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You watched Channel 5 News to get a glimpse of the dreamy anchor Kate Kelly.

In this photo taken in 1984, she gets ready to deliver the news, when she was a reporter and weekend anchor during her first year at KPIX.

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You watched Channel 5 News to get a glimpse of the dreamy anchor Kate Kelly.

In this photo taken in 1984, she gets ready to deliver the news, when she was a reporter and weekend anchor during her first year at

... more
Photo: Eric Luse, The Chronicle
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You showed your parents what you wanted for Christmas at FAO Schwarz in downtown San Francisco.

You remember that feeling of glee upon walking into this multi-story toy store.

You showed your parents what you wanted for Christmas at FAO Schwarz in downtown San Francisco.

You remember that feeling of glee upon walking into this multi-story toy store.

Photo: Jeff Chiu
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You thought auto dealer Cal Worthington was saying 'pussy cow' instead of 'Go see Cal' in his television commercials. 

Worthington built a fortune from his series of West Coast car dealerships and became a TV fixture thanks to those commercials urging customers to "go see Cal."

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You thought auto dealer Cal Worthington was saying 'pussy cow' instead of 'Go see Cal' in his television commercials. 

Worthington built a fortune from his series of West Coast car dealerships and became a TV

... more
Photo: Uncredited, Associated Press
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Your dad (or uncle or cousin or neighbor or someone you knew) worked at the Pacific Stock Exchange in San Francisco's Financial District.
Your dad (or uncle or cousin or neighbor or someone you knew) worked at the Pacific Stock Exchange in San Francisco's Financial District.
Image 19 of 58
You often grabbed lunch with your friends or family at one of the Doggie Diners around the Bay Area.
You often grabbed lunch with your friends or family at one of the Doggie Diners around the Bay Area.
Photo: Susan Ehemer, The Chronicle
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Image 21 of 58

You remember the circle swings at Golden Gate Park Children's Playground. Your mom panicked every time you went on them.

You remember the circle swings at Golden Gate Park Children's Playground. Your mom panicked every time you went on them.

Photo: Robert Berry, RetroCrush.com
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You saw Metallica, Jerry Garcia or Neil Young (pictured in 1982) at the Keystone.

The Palo Alto location later became The Edge.

You saw Metallica, Jerry Garcia or Neil Young (pictured in 1982) at the Keystone.

The Palo Alto location later became The Edge.

Photo: Clayton Call, Redferns/Getty Images
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You don't think the idea of a pizza restaurant with a pipe organ is ridiculous.

In fact your family at at the Pizza and Pipes in Redwood City often, or maybe you attended a birthday party there.

You don't think the idea of a pizza restaurant with a pipe organ is ridiculous.

In fact your family at at the Pizza and Pipes in Redwood City often, or maybe you attended a birthday party there.

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You stopped at  the Nut Tree Family Park in Vacaville on the way to Tahoe.

The original complex, with flight museum, restaurant, gift shop and rides for children, closed in 1996.

You stopped at  the Nut Tree Family Park in Vacaville on the way to Tahoe.

The original complex, with flight museum, restaurant, gift shop and rides for children, closed in 1996.

Photo: Nut Tree Family Park
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Image 26 of 58
You remember when the Milk Farm was more than just a freeway sign in Dixon.
You remember when the Milk Farm was more than just a freeway sign in Dixon.
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You still can't forgive the Giants for trading your favorite player Jack Clark.

Here, Giants' Joe Morgan, left, celebrates with Jack Clark after hitting a three-run homer that helped eliminate L.A. in 1982.

You still can't forgive the Giants for trading your favorite player Jack Clark.

Here, Giants' Joe Morgan, left, celebrates with Jack Clark after hitting a three-run homer that helped eliminate L.A. in 1982.

Photo: AP
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You appreciated the dry humor of Bob Wilkins (right) on 'Creature Features.'

Wilkins was the creator of this popular KTVU program showcasing horror and science fiction and airing in the Bay Area from 1971 to 1984.

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You appreciated the dry humor of Bob Wilkins (right) on 'Creature Features.'

Wilkins was the creator of this popular KTVU program showcasing horror and science fiction and airing in the Bay Area from 1971 to

... more
Photo: KQED
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You went to Zim's in San Francisco for late-night burgers and milk shakes made from real ice cream.
You went to Zim's in San Francisco for late-night burgers and milk shakes made from real ice cream.
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Image 31 of 58
You saw one of the six sold-out Purple Rain concerts with Prince at the Cow Palace in 1985.

(Remember the tickets read: "Wear purple"?) Many of the major concerts were at the Cow Palace in the 80s: The Jacksons in 1981; three sold-out nights with Van Halen and David Lee Roth in 1984 and five-sold out shows with Van Halen and Sammy Hagar in 1986; Fleetwood Mac in 1987 (Wikipedia).

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You saw one of the six sold-out Purple Rain concerts with Prince at the Cow Palace in 1985.

(Remember the tickets read: "Wear purple"?) Many of the major concerts were at the Cow Palace in the 80s: The

... more
Photo: The Chronicle, File 1985
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You shopped at the Esprit Outlet in San Francisco.

Or maybe you were lucky enough to work there (like the girls in this photo) or to be a model in the catalog. You wore your swim suit under your clothes to try on outfits in the dressing room without private stalls and grabbed lunch at the neighboring Esprit Cafe where you ordered a milkshake and a thin-crust pesto pizza.

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You shopped at the Esprit Outlet in San Francisco.

Or maybe you were lucky enough to work there (like the girls in this photo) or to be a model in the catalog. You wore your swim suit under your clothes to try

... more
Photo: Laurel Paul
Image 33 of 58
You own a T-shirt from the Hard Rock Café on Van Ness Avenue in San Francisco.

You took a photo in front of the cow and talked your mom into waiting in line for an hour to get a table at lunch.

You own a T-shirt from the Hard Rock Café on Van Ness Avenue in San Francisco.

You took a photo in front of the cow and talked your mom into waiting in line for an hour to get a table at lunch.

Photo: Bob Mcleod, The Chronicle
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You ate Double Rainbow ice cream before it was available in a pint at the supermarket.
You ate Double Rainbow ice cream before it was available in a pint at the supermarket.
Photo: John Lee, The Chronicle
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Image 36 of 58
You watched Charlie and Humphrey on Channel 2.

Bay Area broadcast legend Pat McCormick was the man behind these beloved characters who were around in the 60s, 70s and 80s.

You watched Charlie and Humphrey on Channel 2.

Bay Area broadcast legend Pat McCormick was the man behind these beloved characters who were around in the 60s, 70s and 80s.

Photo: Caroline Chang, Courtesy Of KTVU
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You felt the ground shake violently during the Loma Prieta earthquake in 1989

. Maybe you were practicing water polo in your high school pool and thrown onto the pool deck or maybe your chimney crashed through your ceiling while you were sitting in front of the television waiting for the game to start. No matter, the 6.9 was terrifying and caused tragedy.

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You felt the ground shake violently during the Loma Prieta earthquake in 1989

. Maybe you were practicing water polo in your high school pool and thrown onto the pool deck or maybe your chimney crashed through

... more
Photo: Otto Greule Jr, Getty Images
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You still think of Marine World Africa USA as being in Redwood City.

Remember the unicorn?

You still think of Marine World Africa USA as being in Redwood City.

Remember the unicorn?

Photo: BayArea80s
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You couldn't wait for the latest cassette to come out so you could run down to Tower Records.

You slept in line at Tower Records or the Wherehouse for all big concert tickets.

You couldn't wait for the latest cassette to come out so you could run down to Tower Records.

You slept in line at Tower Records or the Wherehouse for all big concert tickets.

Photo: Chris Hardy, SFC
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Image 41 of 58
You saw a Day on the Green concert at the Oakland Coliseum.

Presented by promotor Bill Graham, the lineup in the 80s was extraordinary: Journey, Foreigner, The Who, Simon & Garfunkel, David Bowie, Metallica, Wham!, Bruce Springsteen & the E Street Band, Bob Dylan, Grateful Dead, U2 and the Rolling Stones.

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You saw a Day on the Green concert at the Oakland Coliseum.

Presented by promotor Bill Graham, the lineup in the 80s was extraordinary: Journey, Foreigner, The Who, Simon & Garfunkel, David Bowie, Metallica,

... more
Photo: Eric Luse, The Chronicle
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You celebrated birthday parties at Farrell's.

Remember the famous clown sundae?

You celebrated birthday parties at Farrell's.

Remember the famous clown sundae?

Photo: Courtesy Farrells, BayArea80s
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You remember the medfly infestation and overnight spraying.

Your parents thought Governor Jerry Brown was crazy because he permitted the aerial spraying of the pesticide malathion.

You remember the medfly infestation and overnight spraying.

Your parents thought Governor Jerry Brown was crazy because he permitted the aerial spraying of the pesticide malathion.

Photo: Visions Of America/UIG Via Getty Images
Image 44 of 58
You bought your prom dress at the Gunne Sax Jessica McClintock Outlet in San Francisco.

Jessica McClintock was famed for its Gunne Sax line for teens, which featured cotton and jute gowns with lace and ruffles in the 1980s. The white prom gown pictured was a big seller in 1984.

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You bought your prom dress at the Gunne Sax Jessica McClintock Outlet in San Francisco.

Jessica McClintock was famed for its Gunne Sax line for teens, which featured cotton and jute gowns with lace and ruffles

... more
Photo: Courtesy Jessica McClintock Inc.
Image 45 of 58
Image 46 of 58
You drove (or rode in the backseat as your parents drove) on the Embarcadero Freeway.

Also known as State Route 480, it was never finished and never connected the Golden Gate Bridge and the Bay Bridge as originally planned. It was torn down after the 1989 Loma Prieta earthquake.

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You drove (or rode in the backseat as your parents drove) on the Embarcadero Freeway.

Also known as State Route 480, it was never finished and never connected the Golden Gate Bridge and the Bay Bridge as

... more
Photo: Gary Fong, Chronicle Staff
Image 47 of 58
Sylvia Brown was your local psychic.

Before becoming nationally recognized and making many psychic predictions that were proven false, Brown taught English at Presentation High School in San Jose.

Sylvia Brown was your local psychic.

Before becoming nationally recognized and making many psychic predictions that were proven false, Brown taught English at Presentation High School in San Jose.

Photo: PRWeb
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You saw "Return of the Jedi" at the Coronet Theatre on Geary.
You saw "Return of the Jedi" at the Coronet Theatre on Geary.
Photo: Pete Breinig, The Chronicle
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You remember San Francisco's old Cliff House.

You played the penny arcade games in the basement.

You remember San Francisco's old Cliff House.

You played the penny arcade games in the basement.

Photo: Smith Collection/Gado/Getty Images
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Image 51 of 58
You still have nightmares about the Night Stalker.

Even though Richard Ramirez is now dead, you'll never forget trying to fall asleep at night as a child when he was terrorizing families between June 1984 and August 1985.

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You still have nightmares about the Night Stalker.

Even though Richard Ramirez is now dead, you'll never forget trying to fall asleep at night as a child when he was terrorizing families between June 1984 and

... more
Photo: Williams, Kale L
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You saw U2 perform a free concert at Justin Herman Plaza on Nov. 11, 1987.

Remember Bono caused an uproar when he spray-painted the Vaillancourt Fountain?

You saw U2 perform a free concert at Justin Herman Plaza on Nov. 11, 1987.

Remember Bono caused an uproar when he spray-painted the Vaillancourt Fountain?

Photo: Fred Larson / The Chronicle
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You walked across the Golden Gate Bridge in May 1987 for the landmark's 50th birthday.

Some 300,000 people were stuck in a human gridlock on the bridge. Men peed over the side, and if you're a woman, maybe you remember holding your pee for hours. Another half-million people were waiting to cross the bridge, but officials stopped them as the bridge's arch allegedly began to flatten from all the weight.

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You walked across the Golden Gate Bridge in May 1987 for the landmark's 50th birthday.

Some 300,000 people were stuck in a human gridlock on the bridge. Men peed over the side, and if you're a woman, maybe you

... more
Photo: Ed Perlstein, BayArea80s
Image 54 of 58
You'll never forget October 20, 1991, the day the Oakland Hills caught fire.

The heartache, the horror, the media firestorm.

You'll never forget October 20, 1991, the day the Oakland Hills caught fire.

The heartache, the horror, the media firestorm.

Photo: Fred Larson, The Chronicle
Image 55 of 58
Image 56 of 58
You remember when the Dumbarton Bridge was rebuilt and a portion of the old one was blown up in 1984.

Explosives were used to demolish the drawbridge portion.

You remember when the Dumbarton Bridge was rebuilt and a portion of the old one was blown up in 1984.

Explosives were used to demolish the drawbridge portion.

Photo: Frederic Larson, The Chronicle
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You remember the 49ers as being a great football team. 

You grew up with back-to-back hall of fame quarterbacks. Boys in high school went around high-fiving each other and calling out "Ronnie Lott. In this photo Lott (42) slams into Miami Dolphins receiver Mark Clayton (83) to break up pass during Super Bowl XIX action in Stanford, Calif., on Jan. 20, 1985.

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You remember the 49ers as being a great football team. 

You grew up with back-to-back hall of fame quarterbacks. Boys in high school went around high-fiving each other and calling out "Ronnie Lott. In this

... more
Photo: Associated Press 1985
Image 58 of 58

The city had a seedy edge in the 70s with a booming pornography industry and the opening of sex shops and peep shows. This made it the perfect backdrop for crime dramas such as the 1971 film "Dirty Harry" and the TV series "The Streets of San Francisco," running from 1972 to 1977. It also led to the creation of feminist groups that advocated for the sex workers.

Please help us build our list by sharing in the comments your memories of 1970s San Francisco and sending your ideas and photos to agraff@sfgate.com.