The Montclair Observation Tower was a two-story tower built by the Realty Syndicate in 1925 to assist with the selling of homes in the newly opened area of  Montclair Highlands.

Every night the Observation Tower was illuminated by the Idora Park searchlight – “the most powerful searchlight in the world.”

“On a clear day, it is said you could see points as far away as the Farallon Islands.” 

Oakland Tribune June 25, 1925

The tower was still standing in July of 1929. I don’t when the tower was removed. I have heard that the was heavily damaged in a late-night fire in 1929 or 1930. But I have no proof.

Location of the tower

The tower (yellow arrow) is seen in this 1929 aerial By Fairchild

Near the intersection of Asilomar Drive and Aztec Way.

The End