Alameda County

History

Past and Present of Alameda County, California - S. J. Clarke Pub. Co., 1914

CHAPTER XVIII
ALAMEDA

        Alameda was no special Mexican grant in itself, but was a portion of the Rancho de San Antonio, granted to Don Luis Maria Peralta, and by him given, with other property, to his son Antonio Maria Peralta. It was originally called "Bolsa de Encinal," and sometimes "Encinal de San Antonio," the first-named meaning the low-lying or level lands of the peninsula, and the last the peninsula of San Antonio, which took its name from the creek.

        With the advent of the immigrant it became the resort of the hunter, the trapper and the charcoal-burner, who on landing found the ground occupied by coyotes, quail, hares, rabbits and possibly deer in companionship with stray herds of cattle that had found their way to this shady retreat through a brush-fence constructed by Antonio Maria Peralta. The latter held it intact until the year 1850, when he leased a portion of it to two Frenchmen named Depachier and Le Maitre, who acquired the tract for the purpose of supplying the San Francisco market with firewood. These two men were the actual pioneer settlers of Alameda township; the next were W. W. Chipman and Gideon Aughinbaugh. The latter came over in September, 1850, with Chipman and subleased from Depachier and Le Matire the eastern end of the Encinal, comprising 160 acres fronting on San Leandro bay, where they pitched their tent; the site was southeast of Versailles avenue. They were followed, before the end of the year by a Belgian named Parfait, who put up a cabin on the south side of Monroe street, between Mound and Court streets, and by three brothers named Salmon, who located on the Sandy Point, which, on account of the depth of water, was the then landing place for the Encinal. The Salmons were hunters. In the meantime Chipman and Aughinbaugh sent to the eastern states for fruit trees of various kinds, chiefly peach, apple and cherry, and in May, 1851, planted them on the land afterward occupied by the High Street Station and adjacent tracks of the Southern Pacific Coast railroad, and the contiguous lands on the northeast

        During the month of October, 1851, negotiations were commenced and consummated between Gideon Aughinbaugh and Antonio Maria Peralta, at the residence of the latter in Fruit Vale, whereby the entire Encinal passed into the hands of William W. Chipman and Gideon Aughinbaugh for the sum of $14,000 and in the following month, they commenced the erection of the first frame dwelling house in the township—one of those which had been brought in pieces from the Atlantic Coast to California. They found it necessary to raise money. The partners therefore disposed of some of their real estate; tracts representing one-fourteenth interest were sold to Hays and Caperton, J. J. Foley, J. J. McMurtry, H. S. Fitch, Wm. Sharon and a one-third interest to B. F. Hibbard and C. Minturn, besides 150 acres to C. C. Bowman. The consideration ($3,000) for the Fitch-Sharon one-fourteenth interest was a fifty-vara lot at North Beach, San Francisco, and the balance secured by mortgage on the tract sold. The same tract was conveyed in 1854 to Charles L. Fitch, who in 1857 obtained possession and held it by force of arms until the Squatter's League, then existing, declined to assist the squatter claimant to regain possession.

        In September, 1852, Chipman and Aughinbaugh partitioned off lots, each four acres in extent, in the eastern portion of the Encinal, fronting on High street, and sold them at an average price of $80 per lot. Among the purchasers were the Rev. William Taylor and his brother Harvey Taylor. Rev. A. H. Myers settled on the land sold to C. C. Bowman and started the first nursery in the peninsula. To him is also due the credit of being the first to administer to the devotional wants of the small community. Louis Ettebleau came in this year and erected the first hotel in the Encinal. As soon as the four-acre lots were disposed of the construction of a levee across the slough between them and the point was undertaken by Chipman and Aughinbaugh. In that year John D. Brower lived about half a mile north of the Willow Street Station of the Central Pacific railroad. Franklin Pancoast dwelt about a quarter of a mile east of Park Street Station; Henry and Russell M. Rogers had their abode at Chestnut street and Central avenue. Mason and Wickware claimed and occupied nearly all the tillable land lying between the Fitch tract and Webster street, on the creek side of the peninsula, north of Mastick Station. Dr. B. F. Hibbard built a large two story frame house from drift lumber, picked up on the beach, and situated on the tract of land purchased by himself and C. Minturn, situated between Clinton avenue and the bay shore and Union and Lafayette streets. In 1853, there arrived on the peninsula, Thomas A. Smith, N. W. Palmer, H. S. Barlow, A. S. Barber and several others.

        In 1854, Chipman and Aughinbaugh desired still further to increase the size of their town, and at the same time make money. They had established the Bonita on the ferry route between San Francisco and Alameda, but found her unsuited and she was displaced. To these ends they laid out a number of blocks of 233 feet square, containing lots 33 x 100 feet, which realized $15,000 at auction. With this money the Ranger was purchased at Sacramento and replaced the Bonita. A series of attractions known as watermelon excursions were inaugurated. Chief among these was the offering of a lot free of expense to any one who, on acceptance, would build a house thereon. This tender was made by public advertisement, and produced no fewer than 300 applicants, who were promised their title-deeds upon completion of a building, but only twenty complied with these provisions. The others forfeited and the lots were sold at auction. Among those who fulfilled this engagement were C. C. Mason, who started the first livery stable in the town, and a man named Keys, who opened a boarding house. Each received two lots. Still further in the hope of benefiting their property, a charter was secured in 1854 from the Legislature to build a bridge and road from Alameda to San Leandro via Bay Farm Island. Accordingly, they built a bridge across the neck or mouth of the bay at a cost of about $8,000—which bridge was subsequently removed and used for constructing a wharf at the west end of the Encinal. They also threw up a road twenty feet wide on the top, from the bridge across the marsh to the island, a distance of over a mile, on the roadway of which was placed a surface of oyster shells one foot deep. This section of the road cost $5,000. Another section of the road was thrown up from the island to the mainland toward San Leandro, which was not finished, but cost $6,000.

        Although the entire population of the Encinal did not muster more than one hundred souls in April, 1854, it was found necessary to incorporate under the title of the Town of Alameda. By section 2 of that act the boundaries were fixed as follows: On the northwest by the northwest line of the land of James J. Foley, Jr., purchased of W. W. Chipman and Gideon Aughinbaugh, running north 34 1/6 east from an oak tree 8 inches in diameter, on the shore of the Bay of San Francisco, 89.83 chains to the line of the land of Antonio Maria Peralta; thence south 61 east along the line dividing the land of said A. M. Peralta from the land deeded to said Chipman and Aughinbaugh by said Peralta, October 22, 1851, until said division line strikes the Estero de San Leandro, at the head thereof near Romby's brickyard; thence following down the center of said estero to its mouth, in the Bay of San Leandro; thence following the center of the channel thereof, and the deepest water along the southern border of the Encinal San Antonio, about two hundred yards from the line of ordinary high tide thereof, until the said line in the water of said Bay of San Leandro, running a southwesterly course, following the general outline of said southerly border of said encinal, strikes the center of the channel opposite to the present steamer landing in said town of Alameda; thence following the center of said channel northwesterly, until the said center line strikes the first boundary line projected; thence with said boundary projected north 34½ east, to the beginning. No election of officers being held under the act, it became void. In 1854 Dr. Hibbard laid out his tract into the town of Encinal, and in the year following built therefrom his wharf, which was afterwards known by his name. Not long thereafter, the town of Woodstock was planned and platted, both became part of the town of Alameda. In this year, too, the first store on the peninsula was opened by Zeno Kelly and stood at the corner of High street and Central avenue. About this time A. B. Webster started the first lumber yard.

        Among other early settlers of Alameda were Doctors W. P. Gibbons and Henry Haile; Lawyer A. A. Cohen, who was the moving spirit in the establishment of the Alameda and Haywards Railroad and the San Francisco and Alameda Ferry; Henry H. Haight, Governor of California from 1867 to 1871; E. B. Mastick, Henry Robinson, Nathan Porter, Gen. M. G. Cobb, R. H. Magill and many others.

        Until the start of the regular San Francisco and Alameda ferry system, which was established largely through the exertions of A. A. Cohen, the mode of access to the metropolis was by means of ferries of various kinds—first the whaleboat and then by steam communication from the several landings at Old Alameda Point, West End, and Hibbard's wharf, or by a walk to the banks of San Antonio creek, across it to Oakland, and thence to San Francisco.

        On Thursday, September 16, 1869, the first number of the Encinal of Alameda was issued. When F. K. Krauth sent forth this paper to the world in 1863 the whole town of Alameda might have been bought for $300,000. In 1869 the same property could not be purchased for $4,000,000. The construction of the South Pacific Coast Railway gave Alameda  an independent ferry system and resulted in the rapid growth of the town; the establishment of the famous baths, etc. The completion of the Western Pacific Railroad, and the termination of one of its branches conveyed the freight from Alameda wharf to the foot of Second street. The elements of material prosperity were in evidence within the limits of this little town.

        In the month of November, 1869, the survey of the Main and Winchester tract was made and many other improvements were carried on. On March 19, 1870, the Alameda newspaper made its first appearance under the changed name of "The Encinal," and a month later published the following sketch of the rise and progress of Alameda: "The town was originally laid out by Chipman and Aughinbaugh, with its principal street (High) forming its extreme eastern limit, and where all the business of the town centered; but on the advent of the railroad, it was deserted, and the business transferred to the neighborhood of the station, where it has since remained, and is constantly on the increase. Alameda station, which is near the center of the peninsula, is about ten miles east of San Francisco across the bay. Its westerly point is reached by ferry boats from the foot of Davis street, and the road travel is made over the Western Pacific (or Alameda, as familiarly known) railroad. Between the point of landing and Alameda there are three stations about a mile apart, viz.: Woodstock, Mastick and Encinal. All the freight trains from the East pass over the road, which runs through the town. The trains are at present switched off at Simpson's from the Central Pacific road. An extensive wharf, with weatherproof sheds for receiving and protecting merchandise in transitu has been erected at the Point, or landing, from whence freight is conveyed by boats to the foot of Second street, San Francisco, without transshipment. The town contains 1,300 inhabitants. There are two public schools in Alameda, one at Encinal station and the other in the upper town, or Old Alameda. There is also a private academy with about twenty-five pupils. Within the next twelve months, we have good grounds for believing, we shall also have a first-class academy for young ladies, within a mile or two of our station. At the head of High street, in the old town, a new wharf has recently been erected by Moulton Brothers & Co., for the purpose of running a daily line of schooners in the carrying trade between Alameda and San Francisco. There are about four hundred families in the township, most of whom occupy their own premises. There are two churches—Presbyterian and Methodist—and two lodges—Masons and Odd Fellows." From the foregoing it will be seen that Alameda has made large strides towards prosperity.

        On the 16th of April, 1870, George L. Lewis once more started his stage line from Alameda to Oakland via San Antonio and Brooklyn, while about this time the discussion of the construction of what is now the Webster street bridge occupied considerable attention. On the 31st of January, 1871, the private insane asylum of Doctors Trenor and Tucker, located on Park street, was destroyed by fire. In 1863, this building and the Alameda Park Hotel were erected by a company of capitalists with a view of establishing a first class hotel for summer guests, a club house, and billiard rooms, bowling alleys, etc. The hotel proper was, for causes unknown, never built. The premises were leased to Frank Johnson, who opened them to the public under the most flattering auspices. People came over in crowds to Alameda, and the building at first proved insufficient to accommodate them. It then became a private insane asylum with Doctor Trenor as resident physician. This purchase was made in the latter part of 1866, from which time, to the middle of December, 1870, it was used as a refuge for insane persons whose friends could afford to pay the price. On June 20, 1871, the hall belonging to the Good Templars was dedicated. On the 8th of August, the Alameda Academy of Prof. J. T. Doyen was destroyed by fire and its entire contents consumed.

        On March 7, 1872, "An act to incorporate the town of Alameda" received the Governor's approval, the first section of which ordered as follows: "The people of the township of Alameda, in the county of Alameda, are hereby constituted a municipal corporation by the name of the town of Alameda, and the boundaries of said town shall be the same as now form the said township of Alameda." The government of the newly incorporated town was vested in five trustees; one assessor, who was ex-officio superintendent of streets; one treasurer, who was also, clerk of the board of trustees. The township justices of the peace and constables were, by the act, authorized to perform their duties in the town. An election was ordered to be held on the first Monday in May of each year, and the trustees were ordered to assemble ten days after the first election for the transaction of business. This act was amended in 1876, and in 1878 a new charter was adopted. These acts restricted the amount of taxes that could be levied for town purposes and restrained the officials of the town from creating any indebtedness, or expending in any year a larger sum than was derived from taxes in that year.

        The committee on ordinance and judiciary be authorized and requested to purchase a lot on Central avenue, near Park street, or, on Park street, near Central avenue, at a price not to exceed $800, and of dimensions not less than 50x150 feet, and, that immediately after such purchase the committee be authorized to contract for the boring of an artesian well upon said lot to a depth not exceeding 185 feet, and to erect a box-tank of 10,000 gallons capacity, and to provide the necessary machinery for raising the water. Difficulties, however, were experienced in securing water at this point, therefore on July 23d, the same committee were authorized to lease a suitable lot on Central avenue, between Euclid street and West End avenue, where a well was to be sunk or a reservoir for salt water built, and the proper machinery erected so that water might be procured for the purposes of street sprinkling. In the year 1876, however, B. R. Norton, in boring a well at his place at the corner of Grand street and Railroad avenue, found such an abundant supply of water that he at once conceived the idea of laying pipes throughout the town, and supplying the inhabitants from this source. He at once placed himself in communication with the board of trustees, and on June 6th entered into a contract to supply the town with water for a period of five years, for $100 per month, the quantity to be supplied being, all the water that two sprinkling carts holding 600 gallons each, and each drawn by two horses and working ten hours a day, can distribute during the dry season. A company was formed, which, August 22, 1876, obtained a franchise from the town, and laid pipes in portions of the chief thoroughfares. But the town had made such rapid growth that this company was unable, with its resources, to lay pipes to properly supply the inhabitants, though the quality of the water was first-class, and until the year 1880 the company had sufficient for all who had connection with its mains. In the latter part of 1879, Captain R. R. Thompson commenced to bore wells on the old Farwell place, on High street, to ascertain if a sufficient supply could be obtained to justify him in undertaking to construct a water supply for the town. He obtained from four wells an abundance, and on April 6, 1880, obtained a franchise to lay down and maintain for fifty years pipes to supply the town with water. On July 30, 1872, all ordinances passed by the board of trustees were ordered to be printed in the Alameda Encinal which thus became the official organ of the town, and on August 13th, Mr. Robinson was elevated to the position of president of the board on the retirement of Governor Haight, who was succeeded in the office of trustee by Charles Wood.

        On February 28, 1873, it was ordered that the sum of $10,000 should be borrowed from the Union Savings Bank of Oakland, and set apart especially for street purposes, under the head of "street fund." On May 6th W. W. Chipman deeded to the town a strip of land sixty feet wide and 412 feet long to complete the line of Santa Clara avenue. On the l0th of the same month Mary R. Fitch dedicated to the town all streets laid out and shown on the map of the Fitch and Sharon tract, as per Stratton's survey, together with the extension of all streets running north and south to Atlantic avenue. The municipal officers elected in 1873 were: E. B. Mastick, Henry Robinson, Jabish Clement, Eppes Ellery, Alonzo Green, board of trustees; M. W. Peck vice Krauth and F. Boehmer vice Hess, school directors; Thomas A. Smith, treasurer; E. Minor Smith, assessor and superintendent of streets; W. H. Porter, clerk. A committee reported in 1873 that it would be advisable to have a bridge built at the end of High street. Proposals to construct were thereupon called for. The bid of Charles H. Foster was accepted to build the bridge at Peach street.

        Never before was there such a strong demand for real estate in Alameda, Oakland and Berkeley as in 1874-75, and never before were so many individual sales recorded. The cutting up of the large Minturn property opened a new era for Alameda—better than any since the palmy days of Chipman & Aughinbaugh. The Alameda Real Estate Association was doing a very large business. Many houses were going up, sidewalks being built and streets graded. That company began by buying all the Edward Minturn property and placing it on the market. In two months in the fall of 1874 they sold over fifty lots. Bertlett and Randolph owned a large portion of the Charles Minturn property and were selling many lots in the vicinity of the Encinal Station. Hays and Caperton were selling many tracts, lots, blocks, etc. It was advertised that soon the Alameda land would all be taken up, as the island was limited.

        It may be mentioned that up to the year 1871 the only wagon outlet from Alameda was by way of Park street to Brooklyn (East Oakland), or by High street to the county road. During that year an act was passed by the Legislature authorizing the issuance of bonds to obtain money to construct a bridge over San Antonio creek, and a roadway across the marsh to connect with Webster street. This road opened up a route that did much for the town. There was soon an enormous travel over it, as it was the shortest and most direct thoroughfare from Alameda to Oakland.

        At the election of May 5, 1874, the following officers were chosen:  Henry Robinson, E. B. Mastick, Alonzo Green, Eppes Ellery, William H. Wenck, trustees; H. H. Haight, Cyrus Wilson, school directors; Thomas A. Smith, treasurer; E. Minor Smith, assessor and superintendent of streets. The board of trustees built a great many sidewalks in the town. To many it appeared to be an unnecessary outlay, but the wisdom of the act became apparent, as the town settled up rapidly. Of the streets, Central and Pacific avenues were the only thoroughfares for many years that were improved.

        It was resolved on March 9, 1875, by the town trustees, that habitual intemperance on the part of any employee of this board shall be deemed sufficient cause for dismissal. Drinking of intoxicating liquors, "treating" or being "treated" at any bar or saloon by any policeman, regular or special, while on duty, shall be deemed sufficient cause for removal from office. On April 6th, an ordinance ordering all public houses closed between midnight and 5 A. M. was passed.

        In 1874-75 the city of Alameda, with a tax of only 60 cents on the $100, built twenty miles of sidewalk, carried on the usual town government and had a surplus of $10,000 in the treasury, besides as much more of school money. There were two municipal tickets in the field in the spring of 1875; the people's and the people's independent. In 1874 Alameda boasted of ten miles of sidewalks and a rapid growth. Fassking's big pavilion was constructed in Alameda, Encinal Station. Real estate sales were active; many new buildings were erected. It was at this time that the directors of the Alameda, Oakland & Piedmont railroad called for the last installment on this stock. Soon afterward the rails were laid on the extension of Fassking's garden. Rolling stock was added about this time. The Alameda brewery did a large business. In Alameda in 1875 the Newark Land Company built a wharf 25x150 feet; the Alviso boat touched there daily. Large quantities of grain were received at Edmondson's warehouse and large quantities of fruit were shipped at this date. The citizens of Niles and vicinity gave a grand ball in Alameda Mills warehouse in 1875 to raise means with which to build a schoolhouse. Artesian wells were in great favor at Alameda at this date. There was one at the Yosemite Hotel and one on the premises of Conrad Leise. The latter was 218 feet deep, the water rising to within twelve feet of the top.

        The officers elected for the year 1875-76 were: Henry Robinson, E. B. Mastick, William H. Wenck, Eppes Ellery, Alonzo Green, trustees; J. W. Clark, C. G. Mead, school directors; Thomas A. Smith, treasurer; E. Minor Smith, assessor and superintendent of streets; Lyttleton Price, clerk. On September 7, 1875, a franchise was granted to Littledale and Goldthwaite to erect a wharf at the foot of Peach street, for a term of fifteen years, the board of trustees reserving the right to regulate tolls and charges. The taxes fixed to be levied for the year 1875-76 were 55 cents on the $100. On the l0th of March of this year the first car of the Alameda, Oakland and Piedmont Railroad was received in the town and placed on the track.

        On May 22, 1876, James L. Bissell and his associates received the authorization of the board of trustees to lay gaspipes throughout the town. An ordinance regulating the manner of laying sidewalks and of what they should be composed was passed. On August 1st, it was unanimously resolved that all streets in Alameda running easterly and westerly should be a uniform width of not less than seventy-five feet, and those streets intersecting should be a uniform width of not less than sixty feet; that every street opened hereafter should be made to accord with the above-mentioned proportions, and that the streets already opened be altered, where necessary, to suit such measurements as rapidly as considerations of equity and justice will allow. On December 26th, E. H. Miller presented to the board a deed dedicating to the town of Alameda, for public use as streets, highways and avenues, all those parcels of land in said town designated as thoroughfares on a map of Oak Park, Encinal of Alameda. The Alameda Loan & Building Association was in active operation early this year. Clark's hall and store was built in Alameda at this date. At this time a dramatic club was organized there with a membership of ten gentlemen and six ladies; Charles Freer was general manager; Oscar Lynch, secretary; Charles Blascow, Charles Freer and W. Y. Homer, Jr., business managers.

        From 1876 to 1877 the population of Alameda greatly increased—almost doubled—and in June of the latter year was estimated at from 5,000 to 6,000. The growth of Alameda was held back for many years by the inactivity of the residents and their opposition to the expense of public improvement. People refused to have streets opened, and when opened refused to have them macadamized. But about 1876 a change appeared as if by magic. New streets and sidewalks were seen, a large sewer was constructed, the schools were vastly improved, and a combined engine house and city hall was built. Street lighting, the narrow­gauge railroad, improved ferry facilities and palatial residences were the talk of everybody. The Antedeluvians had suddenly and permanently disappeared.

        On September 26, 1876, the enrollment of a fire company was reported to the board of trustees, and its willingness to take charge of any apparatus which the town might intrust to it. The tender was duly accepted, and on January 6, 1877, the purchase of a lot on Webster street whereon to build an engine house was authorized. On April 11th, hydrants were reported ready for use (the first in the town) at the corners of Bay street and Central avenue, Bay street and Pacific avenue, Grand street and Central avenue, and Grand street and Pacific avenue. On December 9, 1879, the purchase of a bell of one thousand pounds weight was ordered, but it was not until October 19, 1880, that the fire department of Alameda was created. On November 16th, Citizen Hook and Ladder Company, No. 1; Thompson Hose Company, No. 1; and West End Engine Company, No. 2 were admitted into the department; and, on December 7th, arrangements were entered into with Capt. R. R. Thompson to furnish all the water for fire purposes and for flushing sewers, and to give the use of his pressure engine for all fire purposes for $2.50 per month for each fire hydrant, commencing from December, 1880. He was required in addition to establish a telephone line from Encinal Station to Webster street. June 21, 1881, Whidden Hose Company, No. 2 (late West End Engine Company, No. I); Central Hose Company, No. 3, and Pacific Hose Company, No. 4, were admitted into the department.

        The postoffice at West End was established under the management of J. W. Clark, the official name being Encinal. The Alameda Loan and Building Association with a capital stock of $1,000,000 was established in April; the directors being, F. Boehmer, P. W. Barton, J. H. Hardman, D. L. Munson, H. A. W. Nahl, A. Newberg, Denis Straub, A. Schroeder and A. Volberg. The Alameda Water Company was incorporated in December for a term of fifty years, capital stock $100,000; the directors being B. R. Norton, O. J. Preston, C. D. Wheat, F. Boehmer and Theodore Bradley.

        In 1877 the sewering of the town was commenced, the first mention of such in the records being on February 6th, when certain property-owners petitioned for a vitrified iron-stone pipe-sewer in Park street, on which, March 6th, a general sewer ordinance was passed. On February 20th a franchise was granted to Theodore Meetz, Louis Fassking, Thad. S. Fitch and their associates to lay and maintain an iron railroad, the line to commence on Park street, at the southerly line of Railroad avenue; running thence southwesterly along Park street to Central avenue; thence running into and along Central avenue and Harrison street southeasterly to High street; thence running into and along High street, southeasterly to the town line. In the year 1877 a town hall was built at a cost of $2,800. June 12th Mr. Foster entered into a contract to complete the erection at the price of $2,649, after which the construction was proceeded with and the building eventually occupied.

        The Alameda Water Company, in the spring of 1877, completed laying mains from their artesian well on Grand street to Park street on the east and to Bay street on the west. The well was yielding 200,000 gallons daily at this time. Already another well was contemplated, as was also a much larger pump. The water was soft and pure. Alameda was regarded as a most desirable place of residence in the seventies. The whole surface of the Encinal was dotted with live oak trees. There was but one-half a street in the town that was properly macadamized, and sidewalks were rare until about 1875. Many of the streets were only forty feet wide though 900 feet apart. At first there was much opposition to needed public improvements, but about 1874 more spirit was shown and more pride displayed in the general appearance of the streets, buildings and vacant spaces. This spirit led to a great increase in the population in a few years. There were many beautiful houses there by 1877. There was a general call for the improvement of the streets, sewers, water system and sidewalks. It was about this time that the name of Encinal postoffice was changed to West End, the latter being about two blocks from Mastick station. In June the council decided to build a combined town hail and engine house.

        Alameda in 1877 had two fire companies—the Citizen and West End and a hook and ladder company. The latter adopted a uniform of red shirt, black pants and black glazed caps. Mastick station was growing rapidly at this date. W. M. Dye at the depth of eighty-two feet on his premises, when boring for artesian water, struck a plentiful supply, though the water did not rise high in the well. The contract for the combined hall and engine house of Alameda was awarded to C. H. Foster in July, 1877, his bid of $2,649 being the lowest and only one.

        The Alameda Free Reading Room and Library Association held a meeting in the hall over Mr. Barber's store, on August 2, 1877, and elected the following first officers: T. A. Smith, president; H. M. Clinton, Mrs. J. K. Brown, vice presidents; C. W. Woodrow, secretary; Mrs. A. C. Gilbert, treasurer; and Gibbons, Boehmer, Ellsworth, Byron, Porter and Mrs. A. B. Andrews, directors and managers. At this time the association was active, ambitious and promising. A permanent combined hall and reading room was planned.

        During the month of September, the American District Telegraph Company of Alameda filed articles of incorporation and stated their place of business to be the town of Alameda. The following changes in the names of streets was ordered by ordinance, November 27, 1877: Webster street in Old Alameda to Fillmore street; Park street in Old Alameda to Post street; Washington avenue to Harrison avenue; Central street to Austin street; Eagle street to Eagle avenue; Oak street at the west end of town to Hazel street; Pine street at Woodstock to Cypress street; Willow street at Woodstock to Maple street; Bay street at Woodstock to Bryant street; Lincoln avenue in the Fitch tract to Clinton avenue; Bay avenue to Dayton avenue; St. Mary's street to Stanton street; St. Paul street to Morton street; St. John street to Benton street; St. George street to Sherman street; Manzanita street to Bush street. On October 1st the rate of taxation for the year was 60 cents on the $100.

        The officers elected to serve for the year 1878-79, were: B. F. Baker, Henry Bohns, W. B. Clement, J. B. Vosburg, G. N. Williams, trustees; A. B. Anderson, Edward Parrish, G. C. Hall, A. Mayrisch, C. H. Ham, John Barton, school directors; E. Minor Smith, assessor; I. N. Chapman, surveyor and civil engineer; John Ellsworth, attorney; James Cook, chief of police; G. R. Bissell, superintendent of schools; John Ellsworth, clerk. From the report of the treasurer, made May 14th, the state of the town finances was as follows: school fund, $8,686.00; general fund, $8,423.56; certificates of gold deposit in bank, $12,180.00; certificates of silver deposit in bank, $3,522.33; silver coin in safe, $1,407.23.

        On June 25th portions of Park street, Pacific avenue, Central avenue and Santa Clara avenue were ordered to be lighted with gas for one year. The following resolution was passed on the 17th of September: Resolved, That the proposal of A. Borel, made through Messrs. Gilbert & Hunter, to sell to the town of Alameda, for the sum of $5,250 cash, lots 7, 8, 9, 10, 11 and 12, in the west half of block D, in the town of Alameda, county of Alameda, be and the same is hereby accepted, and that said lots be purchased for said sum.

        On the 28th of February, 1878, a free reading room and library was opened, with G. H. Stipp as librarian, in the Park Opera House, where it continued until handed over to the town authorities. In August, Doctors Gibbons and. McLean addressed the board of trustees, stating that they, together with Mrs. A. P. Andrews, had been appointed by the directors of the Alameda Free Reading Room and Library Association a committee to wait upon the board and inform it that the association desired to turn over its property to the town for the purpose of founding a free public reading room and library, and requested the co-operation of the board to that end. The board elected to take possession on, or about January 1, 1879, and voted that the institution should be maintained by a tax of one mill on the dollar upon the assessed value of taxable property in the town. On January 7th W. P. Gibbons, Mrs. Elizabeth Green, Thomas A. Smith, J. C. Tucker and George Mastick were appointed trustees and on February 28th the Alameda free library was opened for the circulation of books. The taxes determined to be levied for the year 1878-79 were 90 cents on the $100.

        In the month of February, 1878, the Park Opera House was opened. On the 7th of September the Bank of Alameda opened its doors for business, with Levi Jenks as president, and J. E. Baker, cashier. This institution changed its name to the First National Bank of Alameda in October, 1879. On September 14th the new hall of Encinal Lodge, No. 164, I. O. O. F., was formally dedicated. The following town officers were elected to serve for the year 1879-80: D. T. Sullivan, J. M. Gray, William Whidden, W. B. Clement, Joseph Lancaster, trustees; G. C. Hall, Adolph Mayrisch, school directors; E. Minor Smith, assessor; N. W. Palmer, treasurer; I. N. Chapman, surveyor and civil engineer; John Ellsworth, attorney; James Cook, chief of police; O. S. Ingham, superintendent of schools; John Ellsworth, clerk. The taxes fixed for the year 1879-80 were 79¼ cents on the $100. On March 30, 1879, the Kohlmoos Hotel was opened. On the 5th of December the Royal soap factory, located near the shore line, between the narrow-gauge landing and Alameda wharf, commenced active operations. The company was incorporated in May, 1878, with a capital stock of $2,000,000, much of it being held by prominent capitalists of San Francisco, and a considerable amount by residents of Alameda.

        In May, 1880, the following town officers were elected: H. B. Herbert, Joseph Lancaster, William Whidden, J. M. Gray, C. A. Edson, trustees; Henry Michaels, John Barton, J. W. Mastick, Isaac Ayer, school directors; E. Minor Smith, assessor; N. W. Palmer, treasurer; I. N. Chapman, surveyor and civil engineer; John Ellsworth, attorney; James Cook, chief of police; O. S. Ingham, superintendent of schools. In May, 1881, the following corporate officers were elected: W. G. Marcy, Joseph Lancaster, J. M. Gray, William Whidden, C. A. Edson, trustees; Henry Michaels, J. E. Baker, James Hunter, school directors; E. Minor Smith, assessor; N. W. Palmer, treasurer; I. N. Chapman, surveyor and civil engineer; John Ellsworth, attorney and clerk; James Cook, chief of police; O. S. Ingham, superintendent of schools; Mrs. A. B. Andrews, George H. Mastick, W. P. Gibbons, T. A. Smith, D. T. Sullivan, trustees free library. The regular corporation officers for the year 1882-83 were: William Simpson, J. M. Gray, C. A. Edson, William Whidden, Louis Meyer, trustees; H. V. Herbert, Adolph Mayrisch, school directors; E. Minor Smith, assessor; N. W. Palmer, treasurer; I. N. Chapman, surveyor and civil engineer; John Ellsworth, attorney and clerk; James Cook, chief of police; O. S. Ingham, superintendent of schools; Mrs. A. B. Andrews, W. P. Gibbons, George H. Mastick, D. T. Sullivan, T. A. Smith, trustees free library.

        The Alameda Oil Works was established in 1868, by Samuel Orr. He at first started in the manufacture of castor, cocoanut and linseed oil, but later confined himself to the production of cocoanut oil. The Pacific Coast Oil Company was established in 1880, and erected their large refinery at Woodstock, near Alameda Point, where petroleum oils were refined, the crude oil being imported from other counties of the state. The Alameda Planing Mill situated on Encinal avenue, between Oak and Walnut streets, was started April 1, 1882, and occupied l00 x 140 feet of ground. It was provided with molding-rack, engine and boiler house, a fifty horse-power engine, steam pump, etc., and gave employment to fifteen workmen. The Encinal Lumber Yard, Renton, Holmes & Co., proprietors, N. B. Renshaw, manager, was situated at the corner of Oak street and Encinal avenue.

        Schutzen park was opened to the public early in the year 1868, and comprised between seven and eight acres of land, and contained all the necessary apparatus to make it a place of resort and picnic grounds. There were a dancing pavilion, swings, shooting ranges, etc., all being leased by Capt. George Cantus. The Newport Swimming Baths, the pioneer baths of Alameda, were started in the year 1877, by Mr. Salara, but in February, 1878, he sold out to J. P. Wonderlich, who at once commenced elaborate improvements, no less than $28,000 being spent upon them. There were 200 dressing rooms, 1,200 bathing suits, a conservatory with glass sides, with a seating capacity for 300 persons, and other and many luxuries for this health-giving exercise. Terrace Baths were owned by R. Haley and C. A. Edson, and were commenced in 1878. The dam or tank was 300 by 350 feet in dimensions. There were 240 dressing rooms, and several rooms for hot salt-water baths; on hand were no fewer than 4,000 bathing suits. No less than 1,200 private suits were kept here for the accommodation of regular customers. The entire premises were lighted by twenty-two gas-lamps, each being an eighty-candle power. R. Haley was manager. The Long Branch Swimming Baths were the largest of the famous Alameda swimming baths, with comfortable rooms and elegantly appointed grounds.

        The town of Alameda expended $357,650 from March 4, 1876, to August 31, 1883. Of this sum $197,251 was spent on public schools; $142,007 on general expenses of the town; $21,713 was in the treasury; $40,000 had been issued in school bonds.

        Doctor Hess raised silk worms for sale in Alameda in 1883. A. C. Tichenor of Alameda invented a process of mellowing wines and liquors in 1882-83; electricity was the agent.

        The northern portion of Alameda did not develop rapidly after the advent of the narrow gauge railroad which gave an impulse to building in the southern portion; but in 1884 buildings began to go up in the northern section. In November, 1884, Alameda voted in favor of a city charter and five weeks later another election was held for officers of the new city government. The government was to be vested in a board of five trustees, a board of education of five members; five free library trustees, a recorder, treasurer, attorney, marshal and assessor. It was decided by the town trustees of Alameda to include a clerk in the list of the elective officers. An election was ordered for city officers on December l0th, the polling places were at the town hall, Holtz building, Wigwam. The five trustees of the library were to be appointed by the board of trustees. Primaries were held in three election precincts of Alameda late in November to choose non­partisan delegates to a nominating convention to be held December 4th in the town hall.

        The Alameda Mercantile Protective Union was organized in 1884 and ranked among its members nearly all of the substantial business men of Alameda. In fact the membership became so large that the initiation fee, though small, made the union practically self-sustaining. It was apparent that the large number of real estate transfers, the rapid growth in population and the splendid artesian water of Alameda were the principal causes of its prosperity. To R. R. Thompson much credit was given for the fine water supply. From January 1, 1883, to January 1, 1884, the real estate transfers there amounted to over $223,500. A. C. Gilbert & Co. thus spent $103,500; A. Denke expended $22,000; Wasson & Pattiani spent $48,000. It was a beautiful young city. In February the almond trees were in bloom; then came the cherry, plum, pear, peach, apple and quince blossoms. There the fig, the lemon and the orange grew and thrived. The schools and churches were all that could be desired. Social functions were at all times well attended and prominent.

        In August, the R. R. Thompson mansion in Alameda was burned to the ground. The total loss was about $160,000, there being no insurance. The owner had opposed the tax levy for fire purposes and claimed to have his help so drilled that they would put out any fire that might start on his premises. In practice his theory did not work. He was at that time owner of the city water company. The building alone cost $125,000, had onyx mantels, stained glass from Munich, European carpets, marble statuary, oil paintings and a large and rare collection of books. The firemen did all they could, but the water pressure was too low for quick and effective work.

        In August, the Alameda Electric Light Company applied to the trustees of Alameda for a franchise to light the streets of Alameda. The company had a capital of 1,500 shares at $10 a share, a portion of which was offered for sale to the public.

        In 1885 the supreme court affirmed the judgment of the superior court of Alameda county in favor of the defendant in the case of Dent vs. Bird, which involved the title to a large part of the land included within the corporate limits of Alameda city. Both parties claimed title through Antonio Maria Peralta, the defendants through a deed executed by Peralta on October 23, 1851, and the plaintiff through a deed executed by him on April 8, 1868. At the time of the execution of the first deed, Peralta's title rested on an unconfirmed Mexican grant. The supreme court held that the subsequent confirmation of the grant, and the patent issued to Peralta by the Government inured to the benefit of the defendants as Peralta's grantees. The deed conveyed the tract in the township of San Antonio "known as the Bolsa or Peninsula del Encinal." The plaintiff contended that it included only that portion of the peninsula which was covered with oak timber amounting to about two thousand two hundred acres, and not the salt marsh and tide land amounting to an additional 1,100 acres and upwards. The court held that the language of the deed must prevail and that the defendants were entitled to the whole peninsula "from the sea to a line about 300 yards from the old brickyard house and extending from the point or end of the San Leandro slough to the point or end of the San Leandro slough."

        On May 11, 1885, the two constables of Alameda arrested seventeen Chinamen on the charge of opium smoking. In the trial before a justice nearly all were acquitted and suit as to the rest was discontinued. The Chinamen then commenced action against the constables to recover $250 for damages, false imprisonment and malicious prosecution. A jury found for the defendants. On an appeal to the supreme court the verdict was sustained.

        An artesian well was sunk by the Harmony Borax Works in Alameda and by March 17, 1885, was down 285 feet. Coarse gravel was found at a depth of 280 feet. Several fine specimens of gold bearing quartz were found at different depths. A. C. Gilbert a prominent and heavy real estate owner of Alameda failed with liabilities at $59,884, and assets at less than $25,000. He had built about one hundred fine residences there and at the time of his failure had ten in course of construction. He had started in 1877 in partnership with W. B. Hunter. In April W. J. Dingee of Alameda sold at auction thirty-eight lots of the Encinal park tract; the prices ranged from $590 to $820 and the bidding was spirited. About the same time he sold sixty-two residence lots on Main, Popular, Fourteenth and other streets of Oakland; they brought from $325 to $2,485.

        A tax paying party was organized in Alameda in March. Its object was to levy a heavier tax for the purpose of making the improvements deemed necessary for the new city. The tax levy of 1884-5 covered a total of $36,934 of which only $338 was delinquent and at the close of the delinquent sale every dollar was realized. The Alameda trustees decided early in 1885 not to accept the offer to light the city by electricity. The funds would not allow it. Thee sewerage problem was the most important improvement at that time. The Electric Light Company of Alameda agreed to furnish within sixty days twenty mast lights of 3,000 candle power each, the masts to be eighty feet high, at a total cost of $4,000. The company agreed to expend $25,000 upon its plant.

        In July, 1885, the Alameda trustees accepted the entire plan of Mr. Schussler for sewering the city as well as for providing water for flushing and street sprinkling. The cost of the plan was estimated at $120,000. It was necessary to issue bonds to raise this large amount. But the system could be put in part at a time and bonds issued accordingly. They finally purchased twelve acres of land in the adjacent marshes for the purposes of their sewer system.

        In October, 1885, Alameda city was one of the many owners of the Alameda marshes lying between that city and Oakland. The land comprised over one thousand acres and the title thereto was held by about twenty undivided owners. The Narrow Gauge Railroad Company owned about one-fifth; the Oakland Water Front Company a large slice; Col. Von Schmidt owned a portion, having bought it when he began pumping the dredgings cut out of the tidal basin upon it. Alameda needing a tract there for sewer purposes bought of Theodore Leroy for $350 per acre a total of twelve acres.

        In February, 1886, there were six fire companies in existence. In March, Alameda voted to Columbus Bartlett and associates a franchise for a street railroad on Park street. The liquor license was fixed at $200, but was vigorously and savagely attacked by the saloonkeepers. Test cases were commenced to determine the law's validity or break it down. Alameda was called the "City of Baths & Baseball" in July, 1886. That city joined Oakland in the reception given to the G. A. R. In August, the skeletons of six Indians were unearthed at the foot of Chestnut street ; they were found side by side at the foot of the shell mound standing there. The Artesian Water Company sank a deep well near High street in Alameda in September. At the depth of eighty-seven feet water began to come in so fast that a pump threw out 12,000 gallons in an hour. The well was sixteen feet wide and was encased with heavy timbers to prevent caving. Five shafts 1,500 feet long were run from the bottom in different directions. Later the encasing timbers were replaced by brick. It was believed that this well and the many artesian wells already in use would be sufficient to supply that city with good water for many years. The electric masts in Alameda were 135 high, each having six lamps of 2,000 candlepower.

        In 1887 the citizens of Alameda considered the question of a public park and at first the opinion prevailed that it should be situated near the center of the town. This plan proved to be impractical, because land in the center was too expensive. In the various meetings James A. Waymire, F. K. Krauth, F. W. Dohrmann, T. G. Daniels, G. C. Tobins, J. C. Siegfried, Doctor McLean, Henry Michels, Columbus Bartlett and others participated. Later it was thought best to gird the town with a system of park-like boulevards. But many obstacles arose and the whole matter was held in abeyance for a time. Gradually it came to be the wish of many to form a system of boulevards that would together constitute one of the finest drives in the West. In December, 1889, the right of way for such a highway was secured without difficulty, all property owners wishing such a drive to pass their premises.

        In September, 1887, the Alameda Improvement Association was organized and at once began a rigid system of street, park and sidewalk reform. Charles S. Neal was its first president and was succeeded in 1889 by George H. Payne. The membership in 1889 was 102. In April, 1888, the scarcity of water in Alameda made it necessary to dig more wells in the town of Fitchburg between Oakland and San Leandro. The Thompson Water Works Company of that city dug the wells—twenty-four in all to the depth of about four hundred and eighty-five feet. At a depth of 275 feet, 900 gallons were supplied. A twelve-inch main was laid in April and May between Fitchburg and Alameda. On April 1st, the Alameda free library had a membership of 3,023. In the spring Alameda considered the question of annexing Fruit Vale and a long narrow strip to the eastward. In May, Alameda was supplied with water from the new wells at Fitchburg; the water was pumped up by an engine. In July the citizens of Alameda voted on the question of issuing $75,000 in bonds for municipal improvements; of these $35,000 was intended for new school buildings. An electric fire alarm system, the site for a city hall, street sewer and sidewalk improvements were also planned.

        A. S. Barber of Alameda occupied the position of postmaster for thirty-four years. He was first commissioned in March, 1855, at which date the town had a population less than three hundred, clustered around High street at what became known as "Old Alameda." At that time Park street was covered with vines, bushes and trees. J. J. Toy was postmaster before him. At first there were no regular carriers. The first carrier was a sloop commanded by Capt. M. W. Peck. Letter postage was then ten cents.

        The temperance people of Alameda in the fall of 1888 agitated the question of local option. They finally formed a local option alliance with T. L. Hierleley as president and George Brodwell as secretary, and had as members delegates from all churches of the place. It was announced as wholly non-sectarian and non-political. At a large mass meeting Doctor McLean said that inasmuch as thirty-three saloon licenses had recently been granted by the trustees local option could not be put into effect until after July 1, 1889, in any event. He suggested that the citizens vote on the question at the municipal election in the spring of 1889. He considered opium a greater evil than whiskey. Steps were taken to circulate a petition to secure local option. At a large meeting of the citizens of Alameda early in August, it was decided after a thorough discussion of the question that the city should issue $35,000 in bonds for school purposes; $15,000 for the fire department, and $25,000 for a new city hall site and building. Among those present were Dr. J. T. McLean, George W. Tyler, Mr. Sullivan, school superintendent, E. K. Taylor, city attorney, Judge J. A. Waymire, A. W. Pattiani, Col. P. T. Diskenson, H. P. Moreal, W. P. Daggett and Herman Cordes. An election was held with the following result: For school bonds, 456, against, 124; for city hall bonds, 345, against, 216; for fire bonds, 392, against, 180; thus the latter two were lost because not receiving two-thirds of the votes. The school bonds carried.

        The Bank of Alameda was organized late in 1888 with a capital of $100,000 and with the following first directorate: R. R. Thompson, Henry Sevening, Adolph Schroeder, Joseph Knowland and Del Linderman. In October, twenty-nine of the thirty-three licensed saloonkeepers of Alameda presented a petition to the trustees asking that the brewers be allowed to deliver to them malt liquors by paying a license of $30 per annum and not $200 as then required by ordinance. Their request was granted.

        Early in February, 1889, the Alameda trustees granted to the Alameda, Oakland and Piedmont Railroad Company a franchise to construct and maintain a street railroad on Park street from Santa Clara street to Encinal avenue. At the municipal election in Alameda in the spring there were many candidates and a vast amount of wire-pulling. Important questions were before the town. A petition signed by 1,200 citizens was presented to the trustees praying them to close every saloon in the town by refusal to grant licenses after July next.

        The question of local option came up at this time and the plan of the friends of that measure was to elect trustees who would carry it into effect. There were sharp contests for the offices of city clerk and members of the board of education, treasurer, recorder, marshall, etc.

        The Pacific Land Investment Company owned the Neptune gardens in Alameda; also the baseball grounds at the West End. The baseball grounds were closed for over a year in 1888-89 because of the unwillingness of the owners to pay the high license of $500. Many residents favored this high license, because they had grown tired of having the town made the resort of rude crowds on Sundays. Others claimed the ground had not been used for a full year before the passage of the ordinance. The grounds were no longer profitable as a pleasure resort.

        Alameda found in 1888-89 that it could not sell its $35,000 bonds for educational purposes and its $25,000 bonds for the fire department; no purchasers appeared. The Legislature of 1888-89 repealed the law under which the issuance of the bonds was possible, which for the time killed the movement. The Alameda Savings Bank was organized in 1889 and began business in 1890 with a capital of $100,000.

        A light vote was cast at the bond election in Alameda in November, 1889. The vote was as follows: For school bonds 572, against 74, scattering 6. For city hall site bonds 441, against 162, scattering 50. For electric light bonds 434, against 189, scattering 31. For fire bonds 505, against 113, scattering 36. It required a two-thirds majority on each issue to be successful. Four of the 189 votes were found to be illegal, which left a two-thirds majority in favor of the electric bonds. The bonds were for the following purposes: fire department, $35,000; city hall site, $25,000; purchase of balance of electric lights, $25,000; school department, $50,000. The assessed valuation of the place was $8,000,000. At this date the town had a bonded debt of $89,000.

        In May, 1890, Alameda bought the entire electric lighting plant of the Jenny Electric Light Company and issued bonds in payment therefor—$23,000, not including $2,000 retained for plant extension. At this time the town had issued $73,000 for the school and lighting improvements. On November 1st, the city was given a free mail delivery. Three carriers were put on at the start. At this time Alameda was a promising, deserving place. Its streets were being macadamized, its sewer system was excellent; it had good water and efficient fire department and had recently voted bonds to improve its departments. Three new churches were going up; the Masons were building a $30,000 temple and Mr. Boehm was erecting a $20,000 business block. The Home Protective Association had already taken effective steps to drive out all the saloons. The Improvement Association was doing excellent work to advance all departments of modern city growth.

        The first directors of the Alameda Savings Bank in 1890 were as follows: R. R. Thompson, H. Sevening, A Schroeder, J. Knowland, Del Linderman, D. S. Randolph and C. Bartlett. The unlicensed saloon keepers of Alameda made a bitter and protracted fight against high license in 1891, but in the end were defeated and forced to surrender.

        Alameda grew rapidly in 1892—allover the Encinal. In particular many fine residences were erected. In all 221 new buildings went up. The residence of Doctor Tisdale cost $20,000 and that of Mr. Garratt, $14,000. The value of the building improvements was $627,000. Street improvements cost $85,000, sewer cost $12,300. The old Meetz street railroad system was reorganized under new owners and the town cared nothing for factories—did not want them with their din, smoke and dirt.

        An election in Alameda for more school bonds in December, 1892, was carried in favor of the issue by the vote of 485 for and 230 against and 9 scattering. Alameda's credit was good; before its sewer bonds were issued and while they were being engraved offers to take the whole at par were made by capitalists; it was determined to issue only about $60,000 of such bonds the first year.

        In the '90s Alameda acquired the reputation of being one of the most progressive cities on the coast by reason of its fine buildings, good streets and water, and its advanced stand in favor of public improvements. The construction of a boulevard around the Encinal had been proposed before, but finally began to assume a formative stage in 1895. In the preliminary steps the right of way to a strip 150 feet wide and about a mile in length was secured. Alameda in 1895 underwent a social or literary revolution. It had one of the best managed libraries in the state, but had no suitable house. A rate favored the construction of such a building, but many citizens, violently rebelled, not wanting the taxation even for so worthy an object.

        In February, 1898, Frederick K. Krauth the veteran editor of the Alameda Encinal died in Alameda. He founded the paper in 1868 and had thus been at its head for thirty years. The paper was characterized by clean editorials and policies and its devotion to the interests of that town.

        The Alameda Improvement Association considered the question of inducing manufacturing concerns to locate on the 700 acres of filled in marsh land adjoining that city and the advisability of trying to reclaim about 1,000 acres more. There was much opposition in 1897 from those citizens who wished Alameda to remain exclusively a residence town. In July, 1899, the Alameda library contained 22,737 volumes and was located in the new city hall. Charles L. Weller was librarian. Early in 1900 the trustees of Alameda called an election to determine whether the following bonds should be issued:

        The new charter question was submitted to Alameda voters in August, 1900, with the following result: For charter, 593; against charter, 681. In March, 1902, the Alameda trustees sold $100,000 school bonds to eastern buyers at a lump sum of $500 over the par value. In May, 1903, the new high school building of Alameda was dedicated. President Wheeler of the university was present and addressed the audience. In 1901 Alameda received its offer for a public library building from Andrew Carnegie and duly entered into an agreement to maintain it by an annual tax.

        A new charter for Alameda was urged in 1904 by the West End Improvement Association and the Alameda Advancement Association. All agreed that the city had outgrown its old charter and that its progress was retarded thereby. In the fall of 1905 Alameda took up in earnest the project of opening the streets through to the estuary. Early in 1906 Alameda seriously considered a new charter, a large tourist hotel, a progressive system of improvement, an extension of the corporate limits and a separate supervisorial district. The new charter for Alameda was approved by the Legislature late in January, 1907; it contained a referendum clause.

        In 1910 Alameda possessed the following advantages and attractions: municipal electric lighting plant; parks and play grounds which cost $150,000; pure food inspection; the new library building with nearly 37,000 volumes and a child's story department; an excellent sewer system; fifty miles of paved streets; a new charter; public property worth $2,500,000; bonded debt $595,000; low taxation.

        On November 24, 1913, Alameda county generally observed Junipero Serra day—the anniversary of the establishment of missions by the Franciscan Fathers. Late in November the club women of Alameda considered seriously and profoundly the following three questions: (1) character of the immigrants of the present; (2) establishment of a municipal opera house across the bay; (3) the Hetch-Hetchy proposition. In 1900 the population of Alameda was 16,464 and in 1910 it was 23,383.

        The corporation of Alameda has existed under three different municipal bodies; first, as a town with the management of affairs in the hands of a board of trustees; second, as a city under the general state law; third, as a city under a special charter passed by the Legislature in 1907 and duly ratified at an election held by the voters.  E. K. Taylor was first mayor under the last form.  He has been succeeded by W. H. Noy and Mr. Otis.

        These figures do not include the bond election held April 30, 1912, for $158,000.

POPULATION OF ALAMEDA (U. S. CENSUS)

Year     Population         Year            Population

1860     460                  1890            11,165

1870     1,557               1900            16,464

1880     5,708               1910            23,231

Transcribed by Kathy Sedler.