A century-old landmark in the historic Fresno High neighborhood, destroyed by a drunk driver in December, has been rebuilt and will once again serve as a marker of Fresno’s past.
Built in 1921 to denote one of the first housing developments in the area, the pillar of bricks and river rocks stands 10 feet tall and is one of the more recognizable structures in the neighborhood of vintage homes.
So when it came falling down in a vehicle crash, the neighborhood came together to ask the city to rebuild it. There are only four remaining pillars in the central Fresno neighborhood.
Fresno Mayor Jerry Dyer, Gabriel Valdovinos, Roger Ruelas and Fresno City Councilmember Annalisa Perea at the restored historic pillar in the Fresno High neighborhood that was damaged in a car crash. SPECIAL TO THE BEE
Longtime resident Cathy Cirimele was among those who wanted to see the pillar rebuilt. She recently saw the completed pillar on the northeast corner of Simpson and Palm avenues.
“It really looks good, it actually looks just like the original,” Cirimele said “Now, I just wish we had more of them.”
Fresno City Councilmember Annalisa Perea said bringing the pillar back was essential because it embodies decades of shared memories for students, families and neighbors.
“Its loss would have left a lasting void in a place deeply rooted in community pride,” she said. “Rebuilding it safeguarded something familiar, meaningful and unique to the Historic Fresno High Neighborhood.”
Perea also credits the work of two skilled craftsmen with the Public Works Department for re-creating the pillar.
To celebrate its return, there will be a community party Aug. 26 at Sequoia Brewing Company in the Tower District. As part of the festivities, the brewery has created a special beer, named Pillar of the Community Pilsner.
The beer will be sold in a 32-ounce aluminum that can be resealed after opening.
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Pillar of the Community Pilsner
This story was originally published August 6, 2026 at 3:21 PM.
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A Valley native, Robert has worked at The Fresno Bee since 1994, covering various topics including education, business, courts and agriculture.