Hunter Square: The Heart of Stockton

Hunter Plaza, currently known for its bustling parking lot and modernistic water fountain, was designed as the heart of the city by its founder Charles M. Weber. Envisioning a plaza in the tradition of Mexican and Spanish towns, he donated the land to Stockton in the 1850s. Now called Hunter Square, it is one of the most historic sites in Stockton.

Located in the shadow of the County Courthouse, Hunter Square has always been the center of county government. The Square was historically surrounded by banking and retail.It was also the location of farmers’ markets, street fairs, concerts and carnivals. Three different courthouses have been built next to the Square in the last 150 years, but it has endured and hosted numerous public meetings and political rallies. 

Hunter Plaza was home to many important events in Stockton’s history. For example, it was the site of the 1857 California State Fair. On July 4, 1876, the Plaza was the location of the Centennial Celebration. In 1909, the “Rush of ‘49,” an unusual street fair depicting a gold mining camp, was held in the Plaza.

The current water fountain also has roots in the past. Water features have always had a place on the Square. In the 1850s, a beautiful fountain was built from an artesian well. It was awarded a blue ribbon at the State Fair, but was eventually demolished when the well dried up. In 1891, a granite drinking fountain was constructed on the side of the Plaza facing Main Street. Created with funds collected by the Stockton Mail newspaper, the tall classical-style fountain was known as the “Mail Fountain” and included an ice chamber for cooling water.
The current fountain was built in 1967 as the centerpiece for the redesigned Hunter Square. During the City’s West End Renewal Project, Main Street was also closed to create a park while the north end of the plaza was dedicated as a parking lot.

Whether called Hunter Plaza or Hunter Square, it remains the city center as envisioned by Captain Weber, still hosting a weekly farmers market and street faire. Knowing its history can help us to appreciate its present and to anticipate its future potential as our downtown continues to be revitalized.

Alice van Ommeren is the author of Stockton in Vintage Postcards and
a member of the Stockton Cultural Heritage Board.