Places That Don't Exist
Sunday, December 25, 2005 at 10:12am 10 comments (last by JIM)
I went looking for 28 Barbary lane and found it, in a way. The San Francisco alley was made up by Armistead Maupin for his Tales of the City series, but for the television adaptation, this real stairway was chosen for the entrance to Mrs. Madrigal's famous house.
10 Comments
Greg Dewar Monday, December 26, 2005 at 1:28pm
Macondray Lane was the model for Barbary Lane....but unlike in the book there isn't an apartment complex on that walk street.
There's a great walking tour of all the locations from his books...I haven't taken it yet myself, but I did a self-guided one years ago when I read the books, it is kind of fun. Most of the locations are still around, believe it or not.
Jason Dewees Monday, December 26, 2005 at 10:36pm
Havens Steps is where Maupin lived while writing the serial. It's off Leavenworth between Union and Filbert. It's much like Macondray but a one-block dead end, and very obscure. Macondray and Havens together make a good composite Barbary Lane. I know one current resident who was friends with Maupin when he lived there.
Jamison Saturday, September 2, 2006 at 9:16am
That staircase is located at 1801 Taylor, at Green Street.
mickey/mouse Thursday, October 25, 2007 at 3:44pm
I just love the books and am in SF for a week on vacation. And I don't care if Barber Lane dosent exist. I just love it here.
Paul Rees Wednesday, December 26, 2007 at 8:58am
I've just discovered the 'Tales...' series and am absolutely addicted. I've never been to San Francisco but intend to go next year simply because of Maupin's wonderful writing - plus I've heard that once you go you'll never forget.
Anonymous Sunday, January 13, 2008 at 10:28pm
I am french from new caledonia, and i fell in love with S-F because of Mr Maupin's chronicales
Anonymous Sunday, March 23, 2008 at 1:51am
I lived in San Fran for almost 2 years. I'll never forget it. It's a great city, and it was fun, there's no place like it. I live in Phoenix now, but a part of me will always be in SF.
Jim Wednesday, April 9, 2008 at 8:42pm
As everyone says there is no place like San Francisco! Unfortunately living there is so price restrictive. I always dream of the days of your landlady noy caring about the rent and sharing a joint with Anna Madrigal!
JIM Saturday, April 12, 2008 at 12:32am
Who really cares? It was a great moment in our lives when Armistead wrote TALES OF THE CITY! And I stillwish it were the late seventies.
JTony Monday, December 26, 2005 at 11:39am
So, where is it?