Alan John Factory

The Alan John Factory is a four-story industrial building with concrete frame and pressed brick facade, with a gallery space occupying the ground level. The structure shows typical early factory design with sturdy floors suitable for storage and light manufacturing across multiple levels.

Construction finished in 1908 during a period of rapid economic growth in San Diego, reflecting the city's industrial expansion in the early 20th century. The building has since seen multiple uses evolve as neighborhoods change and commerce shifts over the decades.

The ground floor still functions as retail and commercial space, reflecting how downtown San Diego blended production and shopping in daily life. This mixed-use pattern shaped the character of the neighborhood through both business owners and workers who inhabited the district.

The building sits at 568 6th Avenue in the Gaslamp Quarter and is easily accessible on foot with clear street navigation. Ground floor spaces are open to visitors during business hours, though upper floors remain private.

The ground floor once housed a leather goods and guns store, a combination reflecting the practical needs of workers and residents in early downtown San Diego. This type of mixed retail was common in production neighborhoods of that era.

GPS coordinates: 32.71123,-117.15950

Latest update: December 14, 2025 18:42