Kneass Boat Works

Kneass Boat Works stands as a survivor of the maritime era that once defined the San Francisco waterfront. Founded in 1868 by George Washington Kneass, the yard operated for over a century, cementing a reputation for producing high-quality wooden vessels that ranged from simple rowboats to complex minesweepers. The building at 671 Illinois Street is widely considered the oldest structure remaining in the historic Pier 70 area, serving as the central hub for the Kneass family business for nearly one hundred years. During its lifespan, the yard constructed more than five thousand individual watercraft, leaving an indelible mark on the region's naval legacy.