Arrival of Automobiles: Philippines War Tour

The arrival of automobiles heralded a change of pace for the Presidio.

In 1903, a new problem arrived at the crowded Presidio - the automobile. At that time, Col. Charles Morris, commander of the Presidio wrote to the president of the Automobile Club of California:

"It is with regret that I report that autos are utterly disregarding the posted speed limits. If drivers continued their defiance of the rules, I will be forced to take drastic measures."

In one incident an automobile raced toward the general hospital at a reckless speed. When a sentinel ordered "Halt!", the driver responded, "Go to Hell."

An army officer, mounted his horse, gave chase and overtook the machine. He identified the driver as Dr. James Osborne of the City Hospital. Other incidents of speeding occurred. Leading to the issuance of General Orders in 1904 announcing speed limits:

• All roads east of the brick barracks - 6 miles per hour.
• Roads immediately in vicinity of officers' row - 4 miles per hour.
• All other roads - 10 miles per hour.
• Pedestrians have the right of way.