Founders' Rock, Berkeley

Founders' Rock, Berkeley (must see)

Founders' Rock is thought to be the spot where the founders of the University, originally the College of California, stood when they dedicated the property on April 16, 1860. It also thought to be the place where Frederick Billings stood when he chose the name Berkeley for the town.

Founders' Rock is a natural outcropping of rock that is thought to have been created by activity on the Hayward Fault. It was one of the most notable features in the area prior to the growth of the city. Now, its location at Hearst Avenue and Gayley Road is partially obscured by Cory Hall, which is home to the Berkeley school of Electrical Engineering and Computer Sciences.

Visitors can pinpoint Founders' Rock by looking for the plaque on the tallest point of the outcropping. The plaque was placed by the graduating class of 1896. It reads, "Founders' Rock, College of California, April 16 1860."
Sight description based on Wikipedia.

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Founders' Rock on Map

Sight Name: Founders' Rock
Sight Location: Berkeley, USA (See walking tours in Berkeley)
Sight Type: Attraction/Landmark
Guide(s) Containing This Sight:

Walking Tours in Berkeley, California

Create Your Own Walk in Berkeley

Create Your Own Walk in Berkeley

Creating your own self-guided walk in Berkeley is easy and fun. Choose the city attractions that you want to see and a walk route map will be created just for you. You can even set your hotel as the start point of the walk.
Berkeley Introduction Walking Tour

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Among the soldiers in this expedition was Luis Peralta, who was gifted the land that would become Berkeley by the King of Spain. Peralta gifted the land to...  view more

Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 2.3 Km or 1.4 Miles
Berkeley's Historic Landmarks Walking Tour

Berkeley's Historic Landmarks Walking Tour

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One such gem is the Thorsen House, an iconic residence designed by the renowned architectural firm Greene and Green, showcasing the American Craftsman style.

The First Church of Christ, Scientist, is another notable sight. Its mixed design...  view more

Tour Duration: 3 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 4.5 Km or 2.8 Miles
Telegraph Avenue Shopping

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One of the standout landmarks on Telegraph Avenue is the Berkeley Hat Company. Here, you'll find an...  view more

Tour Duration: 1 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 0.6 Km or 0.4 Miles
University of California in Berkeley Walking Tour

University of California in Berkeley Walking Tour

The University of California, Berkeley, often referred to as UC Berkeley or simply Berkeley, is a part of the larger University of California system, known for its distinguished academics and vibrant campus life. The UC Berkeley campus is the core of Berkeley's attractions. Its design resulted from an 1898 architectural competition, with each building having its own story to tell.

Start...  view more

Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 3.1 Km or 1.9 Miles