San Diego in San Diego County, California — The American West (Pacific Coastal)

Quin Building, 1930

Photographed By Dean Whittle, February 16, 2012

1. Quin Building, 1930 Marker

Inscription. In 1930, this Spanish Colonial Revival style structure was built in the heart of Chinatown for Thomas A. Quin. The top portion had two apartments, and the bottom floor was a combination storefront and storage space. Seven years after its construction, T.A. Quin passed away in one the of the upstairs apartments. Thomas Quin was the son of Ah Quin, Chinatown's founder and unofficial mayor. The Quin family is known as one of the most important Chinese families in San Diego's history. (Marker Number 6.)

Topics and series. This historical marker is listed in this topic list: Asian Americans. In addition, it is included in the San Diego - Gaslamp Quarter series list. A significant historical year for this entry is 1930.

Location. 32° 42.63′ N, 117° 9.66′ W. Marker is in San Diego, California, in San Diego County. Marker is at the intersection of 4th Avenue and Island Avenue, on the right when traveling south on 4th Avenue. The building is located on the northeast corner of intersection. Touch for map. Marker is at or near this postal address: 500 4th Avenue, San Diego CA 92101, United States of America. Touch for directions.

Other nearby markers. At least 8 other markers are within walking distance of this marker. Horton Grand - Kahle Saddlery – 1886 (a few steps from this marker); Bum - San Diego’s Official Town Dog / Greyfriars Bobby (a few steps from this marker); William Heath Davis House, 1850

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(within shouting distance of this marker); Chinese Laundry, 1923 (within shouting distance of this marker); Labor Temple Building, 1907 (within shouting distance of this marker); Yamada Building, 1869 (within shouting distance of this marker); Royal Pie Bakery 1884 (within shouting distance of this marker); Callan Hotel 1878 (within shouting distance of this marker). Touch for a list and map of all markers in San Diego.

Additional commentary.
1. The Quin Family Residence
Located at 433 Third Avenue.

This building was moved here around 1890, from 16th and L Street by four horses and housed Dr. Hing, Chinese physician; Jim Hee, Chinese Japanese merchandise; and a notorious Quinlan brother, T.J., who operated a saloon. The Quin family bought the building in 1930, and still own it. At this time the two garage "wings" were added. The Quins operated a produce business there from 1914 to 1986. Now home to two art galleries:
Cassiius King Gallery and Junks Gallery - Ira Gagon
Source: Asian Pacific Historic District of San Diego Walking Tour - Stop #4

Photographed By Dean Whittle, February 16, 2012

2. Tom Ah Quin Building
1930
The City of San Diego
Historical Site No. 203
— Submitted February 24, 2012, by Dean Whittle of San Diego, California.

Quin Building and Marker image. Click for full size.

Photographed By Dean Whittle, February 16, 2012

3. Quin Building and Marker

Marker is visible to right of the entrance door.

Quin Building image. Click for full size.

Photographed By Dean Whittle, February 16, 2012

4. Quin Building

The Horton Grand Hotel on far left. The Quin Building at center. The Casa De Thomas Addition on right.

Quin Residence - Located at 433 Third Street image. Click for full size.

Photographed By Dean Whittle, February 23, 2012

5. Quin Residence - Located at 433 Third Street

Quin Residence Entrance image. Click for full size.

Photographed By Dean Whittle, February 23, 2012

6. Quin Residence Entrance

Credits. This page was last revised on June 16, 2016. It was originally submitted on February 16, 2012, by Dean Whittle of San Diego, California. This page has been viewed 1,106 times since then and 24 times this year. Photos: 1, 2, 3, 4. submitted on February 16, 2012, by Dean Whittle of San Diego, California. 5. submitted on February 23, 2012, by Dean Whittle of San Diego, California. 6. submitted on February 24, 2012, by Dean Whittle of San Diego, California. • Syd Whittle was the editor who published this page.