In 1884, he shot Michael de Young, the editor of the San Francisco Chronicle, over negative coverage of his family’s business.

This act made people aware of the unchecked privilege of the wealthy elite in the late 19th century.

John commissioned Spreckels Organ in the Palace of the Legion of Honor in tribute to Adolph, who died before it was completed.

[1] After the birth of his last daughter, Spreckels' health began to deteriorate due to syphilis he had contracted before his marriage.

[1] The family's mansion, located at 2080 Washington Street in the Pacific Heights neighborhood of San Francisco, was designed by George A. Applegarth and Kenneth A. MacDonald Jr. in the French Baroque style.