THIS POINT NEWSLETTER

A PUBLICATION OF THE POINT RICHM~D HISTORY ASSOCIATION Vol 11, No. 3 October , 1983 75 cents

I

HISTORY ASSOCIATION NOTES 1 OUR BUSINESS IS YOUR BUSINESS 10 MEMBERS 1 INDIAN STATUE 11 LETTERS 3 OPINIONS FROM WASHINGTON 12 THE GREAT LAND CASE 4 CIVIC GROUP REORGANIZATION 13 POINTS IN THE PAST 5 PEoPl.E AROUND THE POINT 14 CHURCHES- 9 POINTS IN THE FUTURE 11 ~~in titne====a AUTHORS' NIGHT Malcolm Margolin is a well known Bay Arca writer who has written Tire Ohlone .\fork Your Calendar Sow ... ,Hay - lt1dian Life in the San Francisco­ .-t Special .\'iglrt ...... \Ionterey Bay Area and has edited 711e Way .\'01·ember J 7! h'e Lived - California Indian Reminiscence~ On November 17, 1983, the History Stories and Songs. Both give readers a fasci­ Association will host an Authors' Night, nating and thoughtful insight into the lives featuring authors who've written about some of these early residents of California. aspect of local history. Susan Cole, Joseph George Collier, president of the El Cer­ Fabry , Malcolm Margolin and George Col­ rito Historical Society, has just completed lier lulf all consented to attend. a book, 71te Narratfre History of Contra Susan Cole, author of Riclmrond - h'iu· Costa Co;mty, which includes Brooks Island and Red Rock Island. doll's to tlie PJSt. has written a comprehen­ sive history of Richmond, complete "'ith old The authors are graciously donating photographs of rl1e area and its residents. their time to share the evening with the His­ tory Association. Please join us in what\ Joseph Fabry's book. S11•i11.'? Sl1ift. re­ bouitd to be an informative and interesting counts die days of thclib··rty Ships in Rich­ evening. As alw.ays, we'll meet at 7:30 p.n;: mond, whc.:n he worked in the shipyard. Mr. in Linsley Hall. Fabry tells the personal stories of the varied Books (autographed!) will be available gang of workers on Assembly Way Five. for those who'd like to purchase them. -.\liclrelle Brown

""''"•'*'• ,,_.,...... Jtttnlltt!•1~1HUn1•mll8llNIUfl&''~',..'._..,.. ______trum111111""-----••M11U•Mu1 MEMBERS ••. And welcome to new members: Thank you to the following members Frank and Pat Pearson ,who renewed their subscriptions this month: Linda Andrew and Hall Marshall And, a correctionfrom last month's issue: George Batten Marty and Janis McNair. Jean Bernes Philip ~ nd Edith Brown If a red check mark appears here ----- Mary Casey your membenhip dues are ( or were) due as Aileen Conn of Edna Delmore ------~ Lucretia and Tom Edwards To ensure receiving you next issue of "This Sheila Fostiak Point in Time". and to keep it and other Monica H.1lcy worthwhile projects going, please mail in The Hartman Familv your membership now - Since we are a Mary Highfill ' non-profit organizations, your donations are Hortense G. McGee tax-deductible, and greatly appreciated! Joe and Elsie Spinola Please fill out the form on the last page and Maude Wood send it to Pam Wilson, 521 Western Drive. 1 RAFFLE POSTPONED First Bank would be an appropriate site for a branch bank in Point Richmond. . Because many of us have been on vaca­ -o- tions, not enough raffle tickets have been Charles Oliver Clausen. a young San sold. The raffle will take place at our Nov­ FranClSco architect, was responsible for ember 17 meeting. Prizes will be on display designing som(' of Point Richmond's first in 'Trannie's Window· at the Richmond substantial buildings. Supply Co., 145 West Richmond Ave. Muriel Clausen, wife of his nephew, Burt Clausen, presented some fascinating facts ARCHIVES COMMITTEE and figures from C.O.Clausen's leatherbound record book. We are making excellent progress on the In 1911, one of Clausen's first designs Church Collection projec~. I picked up the was for the Colonial Hotel, which soon be­ second group of reproductions on Septem­ came known as the Hotel Mac. An interest­ ber 9 and left the third set for copying. This ing parallel occurred 67 yeats lacer, when set includes waterfront scenes, views of the his nephew Burt was the structural engineer tunnel and several extremely interesting for the rc:construction of the hotel after its panoramas of the early Point. Chevron pho­ Jisa:mou~ fire in 1971. tographers C'..oombs and Mckeegan are doing The Rectory of Our Lady of Mercy a splendid job! Church was :ilso de5igned in 1911. Though -Tert'$cJ .--ilbro not a Catholic. Clausen charged one dollar for his design. GREAT GUESTS In 1912, Clausen either desi1;>'11ed two AT THE buildings or a building plus an addition, for SEPTEMBER MEETING Sophi.t Peard Curtin - :he apartments at 102 NichcU Avenue. The total cost of the frrst This meeting took place in the 'Prof. was S7.550. The second, or addition. cost a R.H. Botts Memorial Lounge'. downstairs total of 52,500. at Linsley Hall. The well-lit. carpeted room allowed a more informal atmosphere and good viewing of the wonderful old posters that Sherry Hartynyk displayed. The posters, once used by the First Bank of Richmond (now Sherry and Bob's)were as amusing as they were historically relevant. Sherry had had the large elaborate posters framed, and they and old bank books and records provided an appropriate accompani­ ment to her historic account of the bank building. One item of interest which she couldn't display was the old bank vault, which still remains in the building. Sherry thinks the main floor corner originally occupied by the 2 The town's first movie theater, now the FR0.\1 THE Point Orient Restaurant, was designed by CORBI1\'S I.\' SP.·US. .. C.O.Clausen in 1912. The excavations, brick work and plumbing totaled $7 ,550. The (from a letter received by Liz McDonald) Richmond Elks Association contracted with After a stay in London. the Corbins pur­ him for the four-story builcling at 315 Har- chased a car and traveled through some of bour Way, now a redevelpment building. Europe's most beautiful cities and country­ The Gerlach Building, now the 'New side. visiting castles and cathedrals on their Todd Hotel' at 1 West Richmond Avenue, way to Spain: and enjoying little villages in was designed in 1 913, and bore a total cost the ,·alleys after crossing the Alps. The sun­ of $13,150. flower fields and grape arbors decorated the _. Mrs. Clausen took pictures of the build- countryside on their trip from Florence to ings. an of which are still in good condition. Marseilles. Too bad C.O.Clausen's San Francisco prac­ They send greetings to their neighbors - tice grew to take all of his time. from their home (for the year) near Barcelo­ -0- na. They say everything is inexpensive there Tea, punch and cookies accompanied except tennis balls. the perusing and chatting that followed the Except for a dock strike and customs meeting. We were happy to find that Frank­ hang-ups. their year seems to have begun ie Greenlaw traveled up from Redwood City 'like a dream'. to attend with Hortense McGee of Martinez and Goldie Shrewsbury of Richmond! We FRO.\J C11EFRO.\'. hope you will all plan to attend the Novem­ I wish to thank you for the loan of the ber meeting! Pt. Richmond historical pictures for our -Do1111a Roselius Open House slide show on June 4. The show was a huge success, and everyone enjoyed the pictures. We could not have done such a good job without your help. NEV\SLElTER LEITE~ As promised ... some prints or slides of pictures we used in our show . . . are being processed now, and I'll get them to you FROM THE lt'EST SIDE soon. UBR.4RL .. Bob Stone The West Side Library is enriched by your Newsletter - it's excellent! I'd appreciate your mentioning our BOOK SALE. Jean Skinner and I will glad­ ly accept donations here at this branch. AT THE MASQUERS ... If/when the City enhances revenue (e.g. "The Skin of Our Teeth·· will be playing taxes) there will be a substantial increase in Friday and Saturday evenings through Octo­ the number of hours we are open here at ber 15 with one Sunday matinee, October 9. West Sicle. Their next production, "The Fantasticks" Thanks, will begin November 4. Betty Hall For reservations, call 526-1038. 3 THE GREAT LAND CASE However, this was not the case. Through contested family wills, the selling of proper­ ty to outsiders and the encroachment of squatters titles of the land were so confused The Richmond area was the first/art of that it took almost 40 years to settle the Contra Costa County to be settle by a matter legally. Finally, in 1894 Judge J.C.B. white man, Don Francisco Castro, but among Hebbard awarded portions of the rancho to the last to become an organized town. Mar­ 148 owners. tinez, Antioch, Walnut Creek, Danville and Some of the owners' names wilJ be fami­ other Contra Costa towns were formed in liar to Richmond history buffs. Henrf F. the mid 1800's. Richmond was not formed Emeric was awarded 1991.132 acres o the until the early 1900-s. People were reluctant old Castro rancho. John Nicholl was award­ to sett!e in the area because of the difficulty ed 344.57 acres. Emily Tewksbury received of buymg land and the uncertainty of having 2,546.275 acres of land. George Barrett dear title once the land was purchased. ended up with 588.13 acr¢s. George Ellis' This situation led to a number of law final tally of acreage was 11.10: John Ny­ suits. Court action on these suits spanned a strom's 70.24. John Peres received 78.44 acres and Azro Rumrill was granted 53.97. period of 40 years, and according to Joseph Edith Stege owned and was awarded title Whitnah in .4 History of Ric'1111011d. Califor· to 79.95 acres and .25 acres was awarded nia, "became one of the largest and most celebrated land cases in the country.'' What to Lucetta Wood. became known as ''The Great La~d Case·• The Tewksbury land and the NicholJ was largely responsible for the late settling land comprised most of the area that be­ of West Contra Costa County and Richmond came Point Richmond. Much of this prop· in particular. erty was sold shortly after the lawsuit wa~ The story begins in 1823 when Don settled to Standard Oil and Santa Fe. Castro made formal application for more How did the Castros make out? Jn Rich than 17,000 acres of what is now Contra 111011d - 11'indoivs to the Past. Susan Cole Costa County. He was given immediate says. (The Castros) "were left with a fraction possession, and enjoyed the life of the Span­ of their original holding. The lawyers and ish Californios. However, though the Cast­ land speculators did much better. The color· ros had the use of the land, it was not until ful, dramatic, exciting era of the Spanish 1834, three years after Castro died, that Californios had ended'.' Richmond was soor legal title was granted by the authorities. to be born. Castro left half of the rancho to his wife. -Michelle Brown Gabriele Berrezessa Castro, and half to be equally divided among his ten sons and ' ,._,_,,,.,_,,.,,. ,,,~,_,.,,,,,_,.,,,,,.~. daughters. __ i GASOLINE • .. COAL OIL 1 Victor Castro, son of Don Francisco Cast­ \ P1mtea d"elrl11 g roal otl or ll ro, obtained title to the El Sobrante grant • g 11solfnp •bould h•llR o u t a cerd or tolepbooe me at shortly after his father's death, adding 2,000 1 l t m~ reeldonoe. acres of land to the family estate. It would l I . LE..tTE.R. . t seem that the Castro agricultural empire was ' ,,,.,,.,~,., ----i--...... """'_...... ,...... _...,...... , now legally safe and protected. ad from a 1904 Richmond newspaper 4 f :I

1-01nts in tltefiJast - "With the new machine which ~e recent­ Articles tl1at appeared during tliis month, 70. ly completed at his shops on Twenty-Second 60, 50, 40 and 30 years ago, from the Rich­ Street dismantled and packed ready for be­ mond Jndependen t and the Point Richmond ing hauled from the place of building to the Record, courtesy of the Richmond Library. shrimp camp near Winehaven on the local waterfront, J .R. Froberg inventor of the Froberg hydro-plane stated yesterday that a hangar will be fitted up in the vicinity of the shrimp camp and the hydro-plane re-assem­ 70 YEARS AGO ... bled in the new location. As soon as it is put "The circulation of a wild rumor that back together Froberg will begin his tests of the body of a (man) ... had been found in its flying ability ... (to bring) out any weak­ the big reservoir of the People's Water Com­ ness or defects which can be corrected be­ fore the machine is finally placed on the pany on the summit of the west side hill section after having lain there for several market." -October 19, 1913 weeb ... is all tommyrot." _October 3, 1913 60 YEARS AGO ... "Drs. C.L. and U.S. Abbott announced yesterday that the Abbott Hospital and "The John Nicholl company has granted Training School for Nurses 'will dose its the city a new deed to the site of the pro­ doors on Saturday, November 1st following posed municipal natatorium on the West the sale of the business of the institution to side ... the deed includes a site that runs the Roosevelt Hospital of Berkeley ... We from the West Side tennis courts to Rich­ have decided to devote our time and atten­ mond Avenue, and from Garrard Boulevard tion to our practice exclusively and to to the Santa Fe." This property is estimated handle this have leased the upper floor of to be worth $20,000. the Bank of Richmond building, where we "The site is donated to the city free of hope to have offices of the most modern cost, provided the SS0,000 bond issue to be character and where we will maintain an voted on November 6 is carried. The com­ X-ray laboratory and a modern operating pany made the same offer during the bond room for handling all emergency cases and issue last year, but withdrew the offer when operations demanding immediate action in the issue failed to pass by the necessary the same manner as they are now.'" two-thirds majority.'' October 15, 1913 -October 5, 1923 5 SO YEARS AGO ••. "The milk shortage will probably mean milk rationing similar to that in effect in the •'In the near future. the transportation East very shortly, or perhaps a plan to equal­ system of Richmond will be changed from ize milk distribution from less congested trolley {Toonerville) cars to modern buses areas to more populated zones. . . . The main line buses will travel along San Pablo Avenue to Macdonald and thence "Shortage of milk is attributable to the down Macdonald to the Standard Oil works." fact that the 'cow' population has not kept -October 3, 1933 pace with the human population. Farmers also have difficulty getting feed and when "Sidney H. Gnaga, of 440 Western Drive they do get it, it is very often inferior and for more than 30 years a leading Richmond not conducive to maximum production. realtor, died at a local hospital last night: .. spokesmen said. Many dairy farmers are also Gnaga, who was 70 years o~ age, was. a nauve getting out of the dairy business. Many auc­ of Indiana. He was a pioneer Richmond tions of dairy cattle have been announced resident and business man who more than recently. Some of the cattle go to other once demonstrated his faith in the coming dairy farms, but many of them are slaugh­ greatness of this community." tered for meat. Dairies and delivery com­ -October 18, 1933 panies are also short-handed, according to dealers here." -Teresa Albro -October 1, 194J' PROCL.HHTJOS 40 YEARS AGO ... "WHEREAS. it is the duty of ev1.·ry citizen MILK SHORT.1GE ME.-!SS to do his share to achieve success on our NO NEh' Cl'STOMERS HERE fighting front; to uphold the morale of Distributors Hint Ration Orders Di4e our allies; and to maintain strength on the "When your grocer tells you you can home front: and buy only half the milk in your shopping bag, WHEREAS, the National War Fund has or the milk company tells you 'no new or­ combined 17 great national appeals in ders taken,' just grin and bear it, remember­ one united nation-wide drive to save time· ing that Bossy is one of the most over­ and conserve effort on the part of the worked souls in the country today. patriotic citizens who volunteer their ser­ vices in seeking support for war-related "Spokesmen for a milk company here causes; and today said that because of a shortage of WHEREAS, our local united campaign is a milk supplies from dairies, no new custom­ part of this nation-wide drive, operating ers can be taken and orders of present cus­ through the California War Chest, to pro­ tomers cannot be increased. Most creameries vide vital necessary service to our men on have a waiting list, they said, and as cus­ the battle front; and tomers quit, new ones are added from the WHEREAS, this campaign, as an essential waiting list. phase of our American war effort, deserves "Very often, they stated, when dealers the full cooperation and support of every are short a certain percentage they cut short loyal citizen of the city of Richmond. customers all along the line a similar per­ NOW, THEREFORE, I, F.E.Tiller, Mayor centage. of Richmond, do hereby proclaim the 6 week beginning October 4, 1943, as "War "Reports were also received from chair­ Chest Week", during which time I call men of the recreation, merchants fire pre­ upon the citizens of our community to vention, public safety, education, streets, put forth every effort toward the attain­ highways. housing civic affairs, traffic and ment of the quota which is our share of trade club committees, as well as the execu­ the nationwide goal in this great war relief tfre board. drive.·· "A resolution was passed to send letters -October 4, 1943 of appreciation to the Standard Oil Comp­ any for their part in the recent entertainment 30 YEARS AGO ... of Japanese mayors and presidents of Cham­ PARR L.-i tDED JN RESOLUTION bers of Commerce. and to the Richmond BY CH.-i.\IBER ~xport Services for their gratis packaging of ..... gifts to the Japanese group from various The board of directors of the Richmond cities they visited in the United States. Chamber of Commerce yesterday passed a resolution commending the Parr-Richmond "A studied report of the budget and company for their successful effort in pro­ finance -committee. under the chairmanship moting new business for the Port of Rich­ of Paul Shoemaker, revealed the chamber finances to be in satisfactory condition:' mond and effecting the return of eastbound october 1, 1953 shipping to the port. ST.1ND:!RD .-iSK.S FOR "The board pointed out the vital import­ BIG coi:sn· REFt:SD ance of the Interstate Commerce Commis­ sion ruling permitting the resumption of the "The Standard Oil Company of Califor­ service as being most significant to the in­ nia toda) filed a $42,114 claim against the dustrial welfare of Richmond. It was general­ ly felt that too much stress cannot be placed c:•:11tra ~st~ Flood Control • upon the aid this ruling will be to shipping and trucking. adding immeasurably to Rich­ mond's claim of being 'The Western Goal of. Industry·. "Chairman Del Thompson, chamber president, announced the resignation of Gennaro Filice, president of the Filice and Perrelli Company, as a director. It was ac­ cepted with regret. Mike Filice, manager of the purchasing department of the company, was appointed to fill the vacancy. "The manufacturers' committee was di­ rected to conduct studies into the possibility of terminating the reserve status of Shipyard No. 3 in order that it might be returned to private industry. "The industrial promotion committee advised that preparation of the new indust­ rial brochure was nearing completion. - 7 District as payment for relocating its oil and cold most of the year, a severe handicap pipelines at Maltby, near Concord. for residential development. "The company says that the county ag­ "Granted, some might tolerate this un­ reed to pay the cost of relocation after it pleasantness in return for the closeness of was decided that a flood control/roject on the water, but the land available is aiready Grayson and Walnut creeks woul probably earmarked for industry. As a solution the expose the pipelines to damage. planners say an estuary could be formed and "The flood control project was com­ that residential areas could be on an island pleted las~ year, b~t St~dard Oil, interrupt­ or spit similar to Alameda. Where would the e? by winter r~, did not complete its money for such a scheme come from? pipeline relocation until last June. "Another curious facet of the recent "The lines, ftve in number, deliver crude discussion on the general plan was Council­ oil from Ketdeman Hills to the company's man David Pierce's observation about the Richmond refinery." 'hook' at Point Richmond. The councilman October 2, 1953 became very upset at the thought that he, his wife and his dog might not be able to 20 YEARS AGO .•• watch water skiers any more. We sympathize with the councilman but would point out SHOUT 'ENOVGH' ON OVERPLAJ\TNING that perhaps he should realize that others, ''Planning groups curtail a property own­ too! may object to some of the planners' pet er's control of his property and the only ex­ pro,JCctS. cuse for them is that they a.re acting for the "The time has come to settle down and overall good of their city. show industry that we are a responsible, "When a planning group - or any of its mature city, one that is eager to attract the· members - forgets this obligation the time right kind of new plants to provide jo\>s for has come to shout 'enough'. our citizens. "Mayor Gay Vargas voiced just such a "The argument is made that this city shout recently and The Independent believes should be well balanced - not just an indust­ h~ should be commended for it. The plan­ rial town, but an area with pleasant new rung and replanning going on in areas vital homes, schools and children. ~o our industrial growth could be endanger­ "The Independent could not agree more ing the future of our city. and this is exactly the reason that this news­ "As Mayor Vargas pointed out, Rich­ paper believes the planners should rease their mond could have lost the Bethlehem Steel cavalier attitude toward the area's best in­ c.o., one of the biggest advances in our city's dustrial sites. Without industry sufficient to !rlstory, through a fear of such over-planning support our citizens, Richmond could be­ m key areas. come just another bedroom community - a possibility as unappealing emotionally as it "An excessive zeal to do something would be expensive in terms of taxes. "ni~e" for the city may further endanger "We heartily agree with the warning of ~he mterests of the community in acquiring mdustry. Mayor Vargas: 'We can sit around and plan ourselves right out of business'." "The fact is that the lands along the Pt. -October 2, 1963 San Pablo and Pt. Pinole areas are windy 8 . -Pam J1Jilson The stove question came up again and it was thought best to see about a stove and Bro. Neville was appointed a committee to see about procuring one. Bro Calfee was appointed a committee IT WAS WRITTEN •.. to see about stove pipe. Bro Dahl was ap· pointed a committee to see about window OUR LADY OF MERCY CHURCH in rear .of building. ]as. C. Bly, Secy Father Denis is in the process of starting a Christian Doctrine class for children. Allan Feby 6, 1905 Smith will be in charge of the classes, which Meeting was called to order by Pastor will be held at 4: 15 on Saturdays, just before 7:30 p.m. the meeting was opened with 5: 00 Mass. Father Denis is also updating the singing followed by Prayer by Bro. Young· ) parish registry. Recently serving at St.John's love. in El Cerrito, Father Denis Arujo, Ph.D. , Those present were Rev Calfee, Bro is from Kerala, India originally. Younglove, O.JDahl, I.Lester, sister Prit· chard, sister Bjomende. On motion Bro Les­ THE METHODIST CHURCH ter was appointed secretary. Bro Calfee had two propositions to offer '11ie foll.owing is a continuation of the first in relation to building a parsonage one from records ofthe Methodist Church. This is the ninth installment of the series, which reflects The Belding Company and one from the the devel.oping and building of the new churc11 Howe people. It was discussed at length: on and how they dealt with problems. The minutes motion of Bro Lester seconded by Rev are printed as written. Younglove that we accept the Howe propo­ sition which is to accept money from them Point Richmond, December -~· 1904 at 8.2% interest payable semi annually. ,•- Meeting called to order by Bro Calfee at On motion of Bro Lester seconded by the church at 8:0S, those present were Bros Bro Calfee, Bro Dahl, Younglove and Ingra­ Calfee, Lester, Odell, Dahl and Bly. Bro Cal­ ham were appointed a committee to select fee led in prayer followed by a song. piano and draw up specifications for the A motion was made and seconded that erection of a Parsonage of 8 rooms with we divide the town into 4 pans and appoint modern conveniences. a committee to collect for the currant (sic) expenses. Carried. On motion of Bro Younglove seconded for the North End-Sisters Jones, Neville, by Bro Lester, Bro Calfee was appointed a Pritchard and Odell (all north of Santa f.e ~t committee to see about incorporation pa­ or Avenue pers. Carried unanimously. for the Middle portion between San ta On motion of Bro Younglove seconded Fe and the R.R. - Sisters Shular, W. Conn, by Bro Lester, that the secretary make a Phelps and Bradley Report of the financial condition of the Southern portion from R.R. South - Sis­ church up to Feby 1. Carried unanimously. ters Shoemaker and Fernald This statement be sent to all members and Santa Fe and Railroad tracks - Bros A. friends of the church. Odell, Dahl and Ingraham. Bro Bly came in late. It was suggested 9 that the secretary make a monthly state­ ment to be read the first meeting in the month. I.Lester, secy appointed OUR BUSINESS IS YOUR BUSINESS Point Richmond March 6, 1905 The meeting was called to order at 7:30 BUSINESS ASSOCIATION BUSINESS by Bro Calfee opened with singing "a charge On Wednesday, September 14. the Point to keep I ha"e" (sic) followed by Prayer by Richmond Business Association drew per­ the Pastor. haps its largest attendance of the year, in­ The following were present Bro A.qdell. cluding reporters from local newspapers. to Younglove, and sister Pritchard. Bros Lester. its regular noon meeting at the Hotel Mac. O.J.Dahl and Bly came in late. Two important presentations were on the Amount received for the pastor for the agenda - one by local representatives of the month of July was S47.70 being S236.57 Santa Fe Railroad and the other by the aspir­ for the sixth months ending Feby 28 with ing developers of a card room establishment $60.00 paid for rent. S20.00 Traveling in che Point Richmond area. Expenses and S6.00 paid P.Elder leaving a SANTA FE RAILROAD balance of Sl 50.57 for the pastor. It was suggested that the Sunday School Santa Fe representatives Herman Green have an Easter Sunday Concert: that each and Cecil Lilley reviewed the railroad com· child be given a subscription card and the pany's plans for fencing and landscaping tht.: child bringing in the largest amount be gi\·cn area bounded by Cutting Boule\'ard, Gar· a Bible ... nothing more. The meeting ad­ rard Boulevard and West Richmond Avenue. journed at 8: 15. including the recently paved piggy-back JAS C.BLY Secy trailer parking area. Mr. Lilley said that Santa Fe had made a commitment to the - .Hid Doman City of Richmond for the work. that they were in the process of selecting a landscape architect, and that they anticipated the work would be completed in the next six months. The two railroad men fielded a number of questions regarding the length of time the grade crossing at West Richmond Avenue was blocked. They said Santa Fe was in the process of completing modifications to the north end of the yard that would diminish switching traffic through Point Richmond in the next six months. They also promised to revise their switching schedules so that rush hour and lunch time vehicle traffic would not be so severely impacted. Any­ one with questions or complaints regarding railroad operation in Point Richmond may phone Herman Green at 237-4056. CARD ROOMS and urge the entire community to Support Our Local Theater. A trio of representatives of the Cove Club Corporation, including owner Bill Mar­ NEXT BUSINESS ASSOCIATION tin, spokesman Daryl Reese and attorney MEETING Wilbur Duberstein, made the first public Chevron will present a program that ex­ presentation of their plans to develop a bar plains their pollution control efforts at the and restaurant facility in "the Point Rich­ next meeting to be held at the Hotel Mac mond area" that would include a 40-table on Wednesday, October 12, 12:00 noon. cardroom. The proposal was carried in the Questions will be invited, and the entire local newspapers the next day and has con­ Point Richmond community is invited to tinued to receive a large amount of highly attend. controversial publicity. Proponents say that - Tom Butt such a facility provides harmless recreation that can bring jobs and tax dollars to the City of Richmond. Opponents say that the proposed cardroom would breed crime, at­ INOIAN STATUE tract undesirables, and cause further deteri­ oration to our City's already tarnished image. UPDATE The City Council is preparing to consider Although we have not been able to fmd an ordinance to legalize cardrooms in the out where the base of the statue is, or why it City of Richmond that must be passed be­ hasn't arrived, it is probably safe to assume fore January of 1984; otherwise the matter that no one has made off with it. We will must be put to a vote of the citizens of Rich­ continue to inquire about it. mond. According to Susan Pontius, Executive BUSINESS ON 1llE MOVE Director of Inter Arts, the artist has signed Camille Zulpo-Dane's z.ebra works is ap­ the contract, which is now awaiting the sig­ parently moving from its 148 Washington natures of the necessary City officials. Avenue quarters to a location on West Rich­ Inter Arts recently sent out letters to mond Avenue next to the Point Orient in those who donated money toward the statue. the former dry deaning shop run for many If any donors did not receive a confirming years by Helen Warner, who died last year. letter, they should call Cecily Clemons, at Removal of the asbestos shingles from 457-9744. over the original Redwood siding on The Spot has revealed a perfectly preserved 30- year old Coca Cola ad that may become a highly valued piece of pop art - the owners plan to preserve it for posterity. DOES ANYONE REMEMBER ... The Masquers Theater has reportedlv Goldy Shrewsbury wonders if anyone been offered a chance to purchase its build­ remembers the Vecchio. Winery that was lo­ ing at fair market value as determined by a cated between Tewksbury and Standard professional appraiser. The group will soon Avenues aboHt 1905. announce a fund drive to secure the dov.'11 payment. We wish them well in their efforts -----·•-•wt-lllUIHU1'WllUlttlrMtt•ltlUllU1.... ltUl._.W41Ul....,._MlllUllMM 11 -

Gynelle Smith - 1st Grade: "I like my friends, and I like reading." Hilary Danks - Kindergarten: "I like my playground, and I like the OPINIONS FROM way my teachers show us how to do our WASHINGTON projects." Mr. Petroni..:... Principal: On the morning of September 14, 1983, "It's an old school that looks like a I had the opportunity to visit Washington school should look and feels like a school School. Going back to Washington School is should feel, and it's the parents. They're always a treat for me, and a real nostalgia forward-looking and they're a great group trip besides. All of the teachers and staff of parents and children. Their ideas are fresh who were there when I was a student have and exciting." gone, but the "one big happy family" feeling is still the same. My visit was made even Mrs. Politeau - 2nd Grade Teacher: more memorable because Marguerite Mari­ "I've taught here for 14 years, and I like nell was at the secretary's desk when I the climate of the school. The faculty works walked in - she was filling in for the regular well together, and there's a good feeling secretary who was ill. Also in the office was among the students." Michelle Brown, who is the lunch clerk for Mrs. Terry Stukas - LibrarJ Assistant: the school and the treasurer of the Point "I like the faculty an the students - Richmond History Association. (For some everyone is very cooperative and they enjoy reason, she didn't want to be interviewed.) lcarrjng. I just like working here." I was able to talk with one student from To those interviewed, thank rou for each grade and a few members of the facul­ vour time. To Mr. Petroni, a specia thanks ty. The question was: "What do you like t·or making everything go smoothly and best about Washington School?" making it a real pleasure to be there. Vaughn Seifers - 6th Grade: -P.1111 h'ilson "I think I like the teachers and I like the school because it's so close to the house. I -o- ~ like history." Shannon Paden - 5th Grade: The Richmond Museum Asks ••• "I like the after school classes and the plays that they have in the auditorium." SAVE YOUR JUNK! John Behrens - 4th Grade: The Second Annual Richmond Museum "Well, it's a big school, and there's lots Collectors' Treasure and Junk Fair will be of kids, and I have lots of friends. I like sci­ held on November 19 and 20. ence." Last year's event was most successful Dan Ogles - 3rd Grade: and they hope this year's will be even better. "You get to play a lot, and the home­ Proceeds will help fund Museum programs. work is fun. I like reading." Donations to the sale can be made by Abbott Conmaa - 2nd Grade: contacting the Richmond Museum - 235- "I like playing the best - especially re­ 1387. Get that stuff out of your garage to­ cess." day! (No clothes , please). 12 COWS? in RICHMOND? REORGANLZA TION OF THE CIVIC GROUP No, but once a year there is an ANNUAL COUNTRY FAIRE! Pro-tern co-chairmen Jan Herrero and Ellie Strauss opened the meeting with pro­ It is time again for the Annual Country posed by-laws composed b~ an ad-hoc com­ Faire at the First Methodist Church in the mittee. Point. It will be Friday. October 28, from The well-organized presentation became 12:00 to 4:00 p.m. While assisting you to hung up in a discussion of what should get an early start on Holiday decorations , constitute a quorum. To expediu matters gifts and goodies, it also assists the ongoing a committee was appointed to soh-e the costly repairs to this historic church. problem. Thus, the by-la,,·s and the slate of A hot gourmet lunch will be served from officers will be voted on at the next meeting. 12 noon ;ntil 1: 30, and while reservations The length of time traffic is held up at are not required, it does assist the committee the Santa Fe crossing on West Richmond in planning. Special tables will be reserved Avenue was discussed. It was recommended for working people. For reservations call that, if you are stopped by the train, you 234-0780 (Oretta F.aton) and be sure to note keep a written record of the date, time and if you are on a limited lunch period. how long the train blocked the road - and The Faire ,,;u feature dolls this year - also call the police to inform them, if the handmade Victorian dolls, soft sculpture blockage is inordinately long. dolls and clothespin dolls. Also, there wilJ The condition of the tracks at the cross­ be homemade baked goods, boutique gifts. ing and the damage done to autos was also aprons, Christmas ornaments and gifts. discussed: calls to the Public Works Depart­ plants and white elephants. ment to the Santa Fe's Assistant Super­ The small but energetic group of women intendent were recommended. continue to im·oh·e other neighbors and Dan Seifers, who acts as liaison to the friends who work to keep this 80 year old City for Brickyard Cove. reported on the church repaired and available for the com­ Petromark plans. The hearing. he said, has munity. been postponed once more to October 16. While you are at the Faire, stop in the He is pan of a Point Richmond committee Sanctuary to admire the priceless stained researching and working against the Petro­ glass windows and the octagonal redwood mark expansion plans. The group voted to ceiling with the 'antique' filament ceiling continue to be represented by the commit­ lights, as well as the converted gas lights tee and everyone was encouraged to attend around the edge of the room. City Council hearings on the matter. Don· t miss th is event! The proposed Cardroom was discussed, -JJid Dornan and the group voted to oppose a Cardroom in Point Richmond: the~ also voted against l ~ Ir. Pal•- · ·a. z. Tl.._,, allowing a Cardroom in Richmond. l :_ 'Pe I mer & T:ffa ny A favorable vote for a SL~-month utilitv E t tiouae, St1n, e•rrl•I• 'Pelntln1 tax to balance the City budget was given. , ~ f 'Pei>•r +4en1ln1 end Tlntln1 The next meeting will be called when the 'i:s " Comer Richmond and Kartlni Ava c1uorum committee has pn.:pared its recom- ~ s: mendation. 13 Raulo Ferrari, resident of Casey Drive. PEOPLE died last week at the age of 71. Mr. Ferrari. 'ROUND THE POINT a native of Oklahoma, attended Richmond Thoughts for schools, and was a cabinet maker. He h'1d October ... lived here for 62 years. Seems to me we need Daylight Savings -0- more in tlie winter when tlie days are sl10rter ! Back, brightening up the world around ... Christopher Columbus holds the world's them are Mary Casey and Virginia Bryant. record for economy mileage. He crossed the Recently returned from hospital stay$, Mary seas witl1 }Hst tlrree galleons ... Better your mentioned making some blueberry muffins relationship with tlie sclrool, the teac11ers the other day, and Virginia attended a Club and yo11r child - attend back-to-scltool Mendelssohn meeting - and both were wel­ night. comed back at the West Side Improvement -000- Club meeting last month. Traveling to the Shakespearean Festival in Ashland, Oregon were Pam Wilson and Dorothy ('miracle woman') Davis went Paula Ferguson. They said they planned to into and out of the hospital. and is recover­ stay until their money ran out! ing at home, after operations. -o- -o- The former June Kunkle, now living in Thc Fiftieth Wedding Anniversary cele­ ~innesota, was in the Point recently catch­ bration of Raymond and Gladys Johnson of ing up on all the news and changes and visit­ Golden Gate Avenue was greath· enhanced ing old friends, but missed many who were when their three dau~hters and families all away on vacations. arrived for a surprise celebration. -0- -o- Luigi and Antonio Bernardi will soon be Have you tried one of 'Colonel Franks' moving from their home on Dornan Drive special hot dogs? Located on Tewksbury to the Salesian Retirement Home in Rich­ Avenue in the Point, they have achieved ~ond. Luigi h~s lived in the family home recognition on local radio stations. They since 1.907. It 1s hoped that the Regional happen to be in one of the Point's finest Park will keep the house as an historic build­ remodeled wooden buildings, with stained ing. glass, victorian lights, and beveled glass -o­ windows and doorsl Stanislaus Casey celebrated his 80th -o- birthday on September 11. -o- Richmond High School's class of '33 celebrated its 50th anniversary last Saturday. The KO KI Campfire Girls resumed their Sep~~mbe~ 24, at the El Cerrito City Club. meetings in September at the home of their Marjie Ellis Stone, daughter of long-time leader, Bev Price, on Tunnel Avenue. Meet­ Golden Gate Avenue resident Ruby Ellis was ings are held on Wednesdays at 3:45 and in attendance, as well as Margaret Broburg they have an opening for one more girl. Thompson, wlio lived on Castro Street,and Members are Lynn Darling, Kathervn Fong, later on Washington Court. Alice Bagley Lisa Ogles, Anne Price and Kelly' Darling. Clark, one of the classes' tead1ers attencled Members will be selling Safety Kits at S4.00 as did school secretary Mary Gately. ' - a convenient, compact, useful kit that 14 -0- should be in everyone's home and car. On October 15 they will go to Marriott· s Seven boys, Mike Modi, Todd Cort. Great America, returning in time for dinner Mario Allen, Robb Bury, Chris Ward, Seth at Spengers. Fenton and Shawn Fernandes will attend Their Magazine Sale is from now until the Patrol Leaders Development School at December. Anyone wishing to start or renew Camp Hems on October 21 and 22. a subscription to most magazines may do so -o- thro~h the Camp Fire program. The group After heanng her father enthusiasticalJy reatins 40% of the cost, making it tax de­ describe the family's cam ping trip to a f riP,nd. ductible and convenient. So check vour sub­ little Sharon Flores remarked, "Gee, Dad. scription renewals and call Bev P;ice. 232 that sounds more fun than it was!" 2660 for more details. ·000- -o- -Mid Dornan Go ld y Gebhart Shrewsbury shared pic.:­ If you 11ave any 'people' news, please call turcs of her Kindergarten class of 1905, at .\1id Doman (eves{ at 234-5334, or leave a the Point History meeting. Kindergarten, in messa/(e, at 235-4222. those days. was optional, so a private class was held in the old wooden Methodist Church, with Miss little teaching. Goldy was confirmed in Linsley Hall. which was then the Episcopal Church. -0· The Degree of Chevalier wilS conferred upon Douglas Busby. and his +?ther, Martin E. Bushy received the Cross of Honor D<:­ gree fro~ the East Bay Di\lsion. Northern California Jurisdiction, Order of DeMola): at the Scottish Rite Temple in Oakland. Point Richmond's Special recognition was given to Bob Peck­ Tinkers and Peddlers ham, with the Investiture of the Legion of Honor. A reception followed thc'Cere­ CHRISTMAS FAIR mony. December 17 ancf 18 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. -o- at Bo y Scout Troop 111 is in full swing Linsley Hall after summer and is meeting every Monday. 235 Washington Avenue 7:00 to 8: 30 at the First Methodist Church. Point Richmond Scoutmaster Fred Hart invites eligible boys to join at any time. We are looking for people who would On October 1, the boys will go to Camp like to sell handcrafted items at the first lindblad in the Santa Cruz mountains for Tinkers and Peddlers Christmas Fair to be their Conservation and Good Turn Projects. held December 1 7 and 18. 1983. This is an overnight trip. Parents and inter­ A small registration fee of $25.00 covers ested friends are invited to a Court of Honor your stall space for 2 days and advertising. on Monday, October 17 at 7:30. Camp ad· If you are interested in participating please vancement awards will be given at this time. contact Donna Powers at 235-7338. 15 Richmond Public Library IMPORTANT DA TES . .. for OCTOBER BOOK SALE 10 Columbus Day (observed) Saturday, O~tober 15, 1873 12 Columbus Day 9:30 a.ni. to 4:00 p.m. 12 Cornerstone laid for White House(1792) in the 4 Back-to-Schoot Elementary Scl1ools Library Patio 11 &ck-to-Schoot Juniro High Scl1ools Macdonald Avenue & Civic Center Plaza 13 Back-to-Schoot Senior High Scl1ools Donations \\rill be accepted at all Rich­ 22 Daylight Savings Time Ends mond Libraries prior to the sale. For infor­ 24 United NatioPU Day mation, call 321-2115. 3J HALLOWE'EN 00000000000000000000000

OCTOBER HAPPY BIRTHDAYS ... Florence Wilson Todd Cort POINTS IN THE FUTURE - OCTOBER Charles Dutrow Jack Sprecker 12 Point 1Uchmm1d Business Association meets - Marian Peterso11 Ricl1 Jt!eiriclc Hotel Mac, 12 noon. Jodi Roselius-&gley Gust Allyn 15 BOOK SALE - Richmond Library, 9: 30 to Rosy Roselius •\lildred Paetl1 4:00, Main Library. Leo Matteucci Li11da Pereira 28 COUNTRY FAIRE· Methodist Cliurcl1, Justin Kaufma11 Jeff Albro 12 to 4:00. See article in this ne1'1sletter. NOVEMBER 17 AUTHORS' NIGHT- T1mrsday, 7:30 p.m. at Linsley Halt downstairs( tl1e Prof R.H. Botts Memorial Lounge) - see article in NAM .. tl1is t1e wsletter.

ADDRESS

"This Point In Time" Is published by the TELEPHONE NO. Point Richmond History Association,. 212 Bishop Alley, Point Richmond, CA 94801. TYPE 0,. MEMBERSHIP (CHECK ONE) Editorial Staff: Donna Roselius, Teresa Al­ 0 SINGLE $•0.00 bro, Michelle Brown, Mid Doman, Lucretia SENIOR CITIZEN (U +) S..OG Edwards. Liz McDonald, Judy Spediacd, 0 io.oo 0 FAMILY u.oo Pam WUson. c ORGANIZATION Illustrations: Donna Roselius c HISTOR Y·PRESERVE R so.oo t 0 HISTORY-MAKER oo.oo Layout: Jodi Roselius, Deirdre Cerkanowicz Membership In the Point Richmond History ARTICLES FOR EACH MONTH'S ISSUE Association Includes a subscription to this ARE DUE ON THE 20TH OF THE PREVI­ newsletter. OUS MONTlL P1ease send membership forms to: Please mall articles and items of interest to: PAM WILSON 21.2 Bishop Alley, Point Richmond, CA 94801. 521 WESTERN DRIVE Questions? Call 235-4222. POINT RICHMOND, CA 94801 Items may also be dropped off at Richmond Supply Co., 145 W. Richmond Avenue. 16