San Francisco’s Stow Lake has been a much-loved spot for locals and tourists alike for more than a century. But after a modern reckoning with the antisemitic views held by 19th century San Francisco lawmaker William Stow—the lake’s namesake—city officials are pushing for the lake to get a new name.
After initiating the renaming process this year, Supervisor Myrna Melgar, whose district encompasses the lake, has taken the lead on renaming efforts by crowdsourcing a list of potential new names from San Franciscans (listed below).
But with more than 20 potential options, the Recreation and Parks Commission has a tough decision ahead of it. Here at The Standard, we’re curious as to what our fellow San Franciscans think, so let us know by voting below for your favorite!
These votes are nonbinding, and the final decision rests with the Recreation and Park Commission, which will meet to select the name on Jan. 18 at 10 a.m. in City Hall Room 416. The commission may also choose a name not mentioned on this list.