The Modesto Arch

The Modesto Arch was erected in 1912 by the Modesto Business Men's Association, the predecessor to the Modesto Chamber of Commerce, as the intended centerpiece of Modesto's growing downtown. A contest was held to decide both the proposed design for the structure and the slogan that graces it, with the final design submitted by Modesto architect Bernard Joseph and the chosen slogan being "Water Wealth Contentment Health." Over the years, the arch was repainted different colors and the flags were removed. By 2012 it was badly in need of repair, and the Modesto Chamber of Commerce, in collaboration with the City of Modesto, undertook the task of repairing and restoring it to its original glory through a major project made possible by donations of time, materials, labor, and money from many local individuals and organizations.

Modesto, California · United States