Herb Caen

Date of Birth: April 3, 1916

Zodiac Sign: Aries

Date of Death: February 1, 1997

Biography

Herb Caen was an American journalist renowned for his daily column in the San Francisco Chronicle. Born in Sacramento, California, Caen began his career in journalism in 1936 and continued writing until his death in 1997. His columns, filled with wit, humor, and a keen observational eye, captured the spirit of San Francisco and its residents. Caen’s work earned him a Pulitzer Prize in 1996, and he became a beloved figure in the city, often referred to as “Mr. San Francisco.” His influence extended beyond journalism; he was a cultural icon and a key chronicler of the city’s history over six decades.

5 Interesting Facts about Herb Caen

1. Herb Caen coined the term “beatnik” in the 1950s.

2. He wrote a daily column for the San Francisco Chronicle for almost 60 years.

3. Caen’s column was a favorite among many notable figures, including celebrities and politicians.

4. He won a special Pulitzer Prize for his “extraordinary and continuing contribution as a voice and conscience of his city” in 1996.

5. The city of San Francisco named a waterfront promenade, “Herb Caen Way,” in his honor.

5 Most Interesting Quotes from Herb Caen

1. “A city is not gauged by its length and width, but by the broadness of its vision and the height of its dreams.”

2. “One day if I do go to heaven, I’ll look around and say, ‘It ain’t bad, but it ain’t San Francisco.’”

3. “Cockroaches and socialites are the only things that can stay up all night and eat anything.”

4. “The trouble with born-again people is that they are an even bigger pain the second time around.”

5. “I tend to live in the past because most of my life is there.”

Highest Net Worth Achieved

Herb Caen’s net worth at the peak of his career is not well-documented, but he was known more for his influence and cultural import than for his wealth.