The Montclair Observation Tower was a two-story tower constructed by the Realty Syndicate in 1925 to aid in the sale of homes in the newly developed 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 1929. I don’t know 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
Near the intersection of Asilomar Drive and Aztec Way.
