KPIX Spotlights Mystery of Dead’s First Show Site in San Jose

A new KPIX news story shines a spotlight on one of rock’s lingering mysteries: where the Grateful Dead first performed under their legendary name during a Ken Kesey Acid Test on December 4, 1965. Thanks to research led by San Jose Rocks Chief Fact-Finding Officer Mark Purdy, compelling evidence now points to 43 S. 5th Street—what is now San Jose City Hall. The KPIX segment features archival findings, eyewitness accounts, and local historians’ efforts. While the mystery continues to unfold, San Jose Rocks is working to mark the site with a landmark plaque.

Click here for the latest news on San Jose Rocks’ campaign to fund Grateful Dead 60th Anniversary Commemorative Plaque project.