By the Golden Gate; Or, San Francisco, the Queen City of the Pacific Coast With Scenes and Incidents Characteristic of its Life

"By the Golden Gate; Or, San Francisco, the Queen City of the Pacific Coast" by Joseph Carey is a historical exploration of San Francisco at the turn of the 20th century. It paints a vivid picture of the city's captivating history, multifaceted culture, and the pivotal moments that formed its identity, especially illustrating its appeal to those seeking fortune and new adventures. The story starts with the author's journey to San Francisco in 1901 to coincide with a church convention. Beginning with his travel preparations, Carey considers different routes and relates stories of people met along the way. The narrative blends scenes of beautiful places, such as the Rocky Mountains and Salt Lake City, with his first impressions of San Francisco, underlining sensory experiences and the thrill of reaching the described "Queen City". Carey captures the physical beauty and the deep emotional impact of arriving in the famed city by the Golden Gate.