The Letterman District welcomes visitors as they arrive through the Presidio's primary entrance at the Lombard Gate. It was here that the Army built its first permanent general hospital, serving military personnel during a century that included five wars. The district was named in 1911 for Major Jonathan Letterman, who created the first effective ambulance service for the evactuation of casualties during the Civil War.
The Letterman District has undergone constant change and continues to evolve today. Here visitors can connect with important stories about the Presidio's history and enjoy unique views toward San Francisco Bay, the Palace of Fine Arts, and the Golden Gate Bridge.