Alameda County, CA History

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Past and Present of Alameda County California
Joseph Baker, Editor, Volume I, Illustrated
Chicago, The S. J. Clarke Publishing Company 1914 
 
CHAPTER XXI
THE SMALLER CITIES AND TOWNS
 
        Livermore proper was founded in 1869 upon the completion of the Central 
Pacific Railway to that point, but settlers were there long before that date. In 
1850, Alphonso Ladd settled in the Sunol valley and in the spring of 1864 
pre­empted a quarter section and erected a small dwelling at what became 
Laddsville and later a part of Livermore. He soon built a large frame hotel 
which was burned down in 1867. Adam Fath settled near him and Alexander Mesa, a 
Spaniard, opened a saloon. Henry Goetjen started a store in 1865. Others came 
and a private school was started in 1866 with Miss Esther Weeks as teacher. The 
first public school was opened in December, 1866, by J. M. Guinn, teacher. In 
1868 R. I. Graham, from Hayward, opened a general store, Anton Bardellini 
started a restaurant and a Mr. Elliott established a livery stable. After this 
date the village grew rapidly.
        During the summer of 1869 the track of the Central Pacific Railway was 
laid through the valley and the station was located about half a mile west of 
Laddsville. The first train arrived in August. In July, 1869, William M. 
Mendenhall, who owned a large tract of land west of Laddsville, transferred 
twenty acres to the railroad company and there the station was located and the 
town of Livermore laid out and named for Robert Livermore the first settler of 
the valley. In 1870 the old arena where the bullfights had been held was still 
standing at Laddsville. Among the early industries and improvements were the 
following: Livermore Springs Water Company; Waterman & Co.'s warehouse; Horton & 
Kennedy's lumber yard; John Sylward's carriage factory; the Livermore Brewery; 
the Olivina vineyard.      Petroleum was early discovered near Livermore and 
coal became a valuable asset. From 1870 to 1872 the population doubled and 
business became extensive and profitable. The Enterprise was established in 
1874, and became the Herald in 1877 under W. P. Bartlett. In 1875 the water 
company brought water from the Las Pocitas springs. The village was incorporated 
in April, 1876, and first covered 840 acres. The Waterman brick block was built 
in 1874. In the fall of 1869 Livermore had a population of about seventy-five. 
Coal was first found at Harrisville and in 1875 the Livermore Coal Company was 
formed. Other shafts were opened from time to time along the ridges and valleys 
at Corral Hollow. Laddsville was nearly all burned down in 1871. The Fire 
Company was organized about 1874-75. Mathews and Hilton ran a line of stages 
from Livermore by way of Pleasanton, Dublin and Danville to Mount Diablo. 
Livermore Grange was established in 1874. A bank was started about 1875. The 
same year the Livermore library was founded. Various lodges and societies made 
their appearance at this time. The town even had a dramatic association. 
Livermore valley hay became famous at an early date; also its wheat, barley, 
grapes and wine. The Farmers' Union was incorporated in 1883. In 1880 the 
population was 855. It was about 1880-81 that vineyards began to replace the 
wheat and barley fields. The Livermore Valley Wine Growers' Association was 
strong and active in the '80s. The gas works were started in 1885. An excellent 
grade of chromite was found near the town and was once marketed extensively. In 
1885 the Remillard brick works employed about one hundred men—mostly Italians, 
French and Portuguese. The Aqua de Villa springs, owned by W. M. Mendenhall and 
located ten miles northeast of town, attracted much attention and patronage 
about 1885-86. The water contained 8.8 grains of magnesium and 12.45 grains of 
sodium phosphate in each gallon. A telephone line connected Livermore and the 
Arroyo valley vineyard districts in 1886. A white steam laundry company was 
founded in 1886 as a step to circumvent the Chinese. About the same time 
Livermore dealers stopped permanently the Chinese vegetable peddlers from 
operating in that city. But the white laundry was soon forced to suspend for 
want of patronage. When this fact became known the American flag was raised over 
the Chinese wash house near the depot. Soon the white laundry was revived and 
started again, whereupon it was suggested that the Chinese should shift the flag 
to half mast. The town became a presidential postoffice in 1885. In 1888 
electric lights were introduced in the streets and public buildings. A little 
later the system was greatly extended. The Bolsa canal was constructed in 
1888-89 —three and a half miles at a cost of over $17,000. The town assessment 
in 1888 was $561,950.  Gold and silver ore were found by Mr. Mendenhall near 
Aqua de Villa in 1889. This year Mr. Mendenhall sued the trustees to recover 
title to a long narrow strip of land in the heart of the town containing 51.2 
acres and extending along the south side of Rancho Las Pocitas grant. By 1890 
the north flank of Mount Hamilton began to be covered with settlers. Thousands 
of robins, driven from the mountains by the deep snow, were killed near 
Livermore in 1890. In four nights Thomas Coffman killed 4,000 by shooting 
promiscuously into the trees where they roosted in countless numbers; they 
brought 40 cents a dozen in San Francisco markets. The Farmers' Warehouse 
Company was organized in 1891. In 1893 Livermore for the first time fought 
successfully the undue development of the saloon interests. This year the 
citizens assembled and took strong grounds against the employment of Chinese in 
the vineyards. In 1895 the almond crop of Livermore and vicinity amounted to 
50,000 pounds. In 1896 the Library Association was reorganized by the League of 
Progress, the Ladies' Auxiliary and the Jolly Bachelors and the Odd Fellows 
library of Oakland was purchased. About the same time Mr. Bartlett gave the 
library 200 volumes.
        Livermore Collegiate Institute was founded in 1870 by Doctor and Mrs. 
Kingsbury and was located on the north bank of Arroyo Mocho. The main building 
was three stories high, with flanks of less height and with several 
out­buildings. In 1875 the property was purchased by Prof. J. D. Smith, who also 
had been an instructor in Washington College, this county. The First 
Presbyterian church was started in 1871; the Methodist church was organized in 
1885; the Catholics dedicated their big church in 1891, Archbishop Riordan laid 
the cornerstone. Livermore Lodge, I. O. O. F., was established in 1873; 
Livermore Lodge, A. F. & A. M., about the same time; Vesper Lodge, A. O. U. W., 
in 1878; Livermore Lodge, I. O. G. T., 1881; Livermore Council, A. L. of H., in 
1882.
        The Union high school was dedicated in August, 1893. The county 
superintendent, the high school principal and President Kellogg of the 
university delivered addresses. In the building were four main rooms and a large 
basement divided into two sections for boys and girls respectively.
        The dairy industry became extensive at Livermore in the '80s and '90s. 
The citizens called for irrigation in order that cows could have luxuriant grass 
the year round. Efforts to establish a creamery were made. In 1890 Livermore had 
over twenty miles of graded streets.
        In recent years Livermore has steadily increased in population, but most 
noticeable of all is the fact that it is up to date with merchants, 
manufacturers, real estate dealers, clubs, societies, lodges, schools, churches, 
fire system, lighting system, civic improvements, Chamber of Commerce, banks, 
newspapers, benevolent organizations, Carnegie library, water system, medicinal 
springs, etc. It is the center of a large industry in oil, coal, glass sand, 
potter's clay, brick clay, quicksilver, chromite, lime, etc. Livermore hay grown 
on the Altamont hills is the best in the West and has been shipped in large lots 
to Liverpool, England. At the present day the Cresta Blanca, Giersberger and 
Ruby Hill vineyards are known the world over for their products.
        A system of boulevards between the east bay shore district and Livermore 
valley is being developed. Soon this beautiful valley will have one of the most 
attractive and picturesque scenic boulevards in the world; it is called the 
triangle trip, because it leaves Oakland in one direction and returns from 
another after traversing the sides of a triangle. A side trip is planned to San 
Jose. Livermore valley is noted at this day for its hay, barley, hops, grapes, 
wines, sugar beets, blooded stock, poultry, pure water, delightful climate and 
beautiful scenery. In the valley are Livermore, Pleasanton, Altamont, Sunol, 
Dougherty, Dublin, Santa Rita, and a few other small villages.
        Pleasanton in early times was called Alisal (Cottonwood) and was located 
on part of the grant to Antonio Sunol, Antonio Maria Pico, Augustin Bernal and 
Juan P. Bernal in 1839. In 1850 Augustin Bernal built a residence at the foot of 
the mountains about a mile west of the town. In August, 1851, John W. Kottinger, 
an Austrian, arrived, erected a house on the creek and began stock-raising. In 
September, 1852, Juan P. Bernal erected an adobe house across the creek from 
Kottinger's residence. Duerr and Ausbaumer in 1857 opened a store in Kottinger's 
residence and two years later Charles Garthwaite started a store opposite the 
residence of Augustin Bernal, continuing four years. Before 1867 it was one of 
the wildest towns in the state. It was here that Harry Morse, sheriff, had his 
famous battle with Narcisco Borjorques. In 1863 Mr. Kottinger laid out a few 
lots at Alisal, offered them for sale and among the purchasers were Jacob 
Teeters, a blacksmith, William Wittner, a carpenter; and Doctor Goucher, all 
three of whom at once erected houses. The same year Joshua A. Neal, a pioneer of 
1847, who had served several years as majordomo for Robert Livermore, moved to 
Alisal, married a daughter of Augustin Bernal and thus acquired 500 acres of 
land upon a portion of which later was laid out the town of Pleasanton. He 
erected a residence on a hill overlooking the valley. In 1864 a school was 
opened by a Mr. Powell, teacher. In 1865 Mr. Kottinger erected a large building 
in which he opened a general store and a hotel or tavern. The latter was leased 
to Anton Bardellini who opened a house of entertainment in 1867. In this year 
Mr. Kottinger had a survey made of the land and lots and laid out a town which 
he named Pleasanton in honor of General Pleasanton, a gallant cavalry officer 
under Gen. John C. Fremont in the Missouri campaign of the Civil war. In 1868 
Mr. Neal laid out lots adjoining those of Mr. Kottinger. Both men—Kottinger and 
Neal—directed several surveys in 1869 to make their lots conform to the railway 
track of the Central Pacific Company then built through the valley. The old 
county road became Main street. The town grew rapidly in 1869-70, owing to the 
presence of the railroad and the establishment of a station there. Among the 
most important of the early buildings were a two-story schoolhouse, a frame 
church, a two-story frame building by the Odd Fellows, and the Bilz carriage and 
wagon factory. Snipe and duck shooting on the adjoining bolsa near Pleasanton 
was a sport greatly enjoyed by hunters. In the '50s Mr. Kottinger began to make 
wine and by 1870 had a fine old stock on hand. In 1874 the water works were 
finished by Mr. Neal.
        By 1876 Pleasanton was growing rapidly and was shipping by rail large 
quantities of hay, wheat, barley and horses. A large hotel was opened by H. 
Detjens in 1875. The Selbach mineral springs containing iron, sulphur and 
magnesia were extensively patronized at this date. Lots in Pleasanton were sold 
1875 by Mrs. McLaughlin for from $295 to $520 each. Five lots on Railroad 
street—all vacant property—sold for $1,600. Coal discoveries were made near 
town. Early in the '70s Augustin Bernal built a fine mile race track near the 
town and a little later a Jockey Club was organized nearly all of the local 
stockmen becoming members. In 1875 in a running race between Bernal's bay horse 
and Alviso's bay mare, the former won by five lengths; much money changed hands 
on the result.
        By 1885 the blooded horses and the race track at Pleasanton were known 
to horsemen all over the United States. Indian Town was near Pleasanton. In 
early times floods in the Arroyos Mocho and Valle overflowed the cleared and 
cultivated sections of the bolsa and caused much damage, but did not continue 
long. The bolsa soil was adapted to berries of all kinds and immense quantities 
were raised in the '80s. In 1884, 1,200 acres of hay were grown on the Baker 
ranch. The tract was irrigated three times and yielded about two thousand tons 
worth about thirty thousand dollars. Immense quantities of wheat were raised 
near the town. On one occasion 14,375 pounds of wheat came to town on one wagon 
drawn by seven horses. Indians on the Crow ranch raised seventy bushels of corn 
to the acre. In 1885 J. B. Sportono made 6,000 gallons of wine from berries. 
Land near town sold for $150 an acre. Large quantities of apples were grown in 
the '80s. Immense quantities of baled hay were shipped. In 1884 George True sold 
158 acres for $10,500. Grape culture made the land very valuable. A forestry 
station was located in Livermore valley in 1888 on the Mountain View tract. 
During the month of September, 1888, 4,000 tons of hay and 2,500 tons of grain 
were shipped from Pleasanton. The Star was the local newspaper at this time. 
Though dry, this year was the most prosperous ever known at Pleasanton up to 
date. More hay, grain, fruit, spuds and vegetables were sent than ever before; 
also many new buildings were erected and more genuine progress was made than 
during the previous ten years, said the Star. The Santa Rita rancho was cut into 
small tracts and sold at this time. Mr. Hatch paid $300 per acre for one hundred 
and twenty acres of this ranch; he planted a large almond orchard.
        In November, 1885, the races near Pleasanton attracted large crowds, but 
the trotting speed did not go below three minutes. Count Valensin secured 140 
acres of the Santa Rita ranch, converted the track into a stock farm and built a 
race track. In 1889 an overflowing artesian well was dug by Mr. Kottinger and 
abundant water was found at the depth of sixty-four feet. In 1890 the citizens 
subscribed $1,350 towards developing the artesian wells and erecting wind­mills 
on Tassajara road. In 1891 a stallion bred in this vicinity by J. C. Simpson was 
sold at Lexington, Kentucky, for $55,000. At this time fine studs were owned by 
Giulio Valensin, Senator George Hearst, H. Wilmeek, Gilbert Tompkins and J. C. 
Simpson. Natural gas was struck in a well in Odd Fellows cemetery. Druid Hall 
Association was organized in 1891. In 1894 the remainder of Santa Rita ranch was 
offered for sale by Laymance & Co., of Oakland. In May, 1894, on the vote to 
incorporate Pleasanton the result stood—for incorporation 123, against 
incorporation 46. The village was duly made a town, the first board of trustees 
being H. P. Chadbourne, William H. Martin, William Napier, John B. Hortenstine 
and Joseph Nevis. The petition for incorporation stated that within the proposed 
town boundaries were over 500 inhabitants. In 1895 Pleasanton shipped to the 
sugar mill at Alvarado 8,506 tons of sugar beets against 10,074 tons in 1894.
        The famous valleys in the eastern part of the county are known as 
Livermore, Amador, Sunol, Vallecitos and parts of San Ramon and Tassajara, 
Livermore being the largest. In 1890 Senator George Hearst bought 440 acres on 
Laguna creek a mile and a half below town and converted the tract into a blooded 
horse breeding farm. The old Hearst homestead known as Hacienda del Poso da 
Verona, is still one of the most beautiful in the county. From this home have 
come the liberal benefactions of Mrs. Phoebe A. Hearst, mother of William 
Randolph Hearst.
        In 1897, Dr. W. H. Cope discovered a fine flow of artesian water within 
about half a mile of the center of Pleasanton. The town trustees promptly 
secured three acres of land which embraced the well and found upon examination 
that the well had a flow of 42,000 gallons every twenty-four hours. A 
50,000-gallon reservoir was at once built to catch the overflow and a pumping 
plant was installed to force the water 128 feet to the top of the hill where a 
200,000-gallon reservoir was constructed, giving the town a hydrant pressure of 
60 pounds. It was so arranged that the hydrant pressure could be increased to 90 
pounds. Soon plans were perfected to double the reservoir capacity.
        In March, 1898, the old Farmers Hotel at Pleasanton was destroyed by 
fire; it was about thirty-five years old and had been kept many years by Henry 
Reimer. In August, 1899, Pleasanton voted on the question of issuing $15,000 in 
bonds to develop the water supply. As yet the town had no water works, but had 
depended wholly on wells. Now a change was demanded.
        The celebration of the Fourth of July, 1900, at Pleasanton was highly 
creditable to the town. Thousands from surrounding towns were present. Livermore 
joined in the celebration and assisted in making it enjoyable and successful. 
Perhaps it should be set down as a joint celebration of the two towns so 
unitedly
and harmoniously did they work for the pleasure of the crowd and the 
glorification of the day. The principal oration was delivered by W. H. Donahue. 
There were parades, music, games, fancy riding and beautifully decorated 
buildings. The county board appropriated $200 towards this celebration.
        At the present time Pleasanton is a prosperous center of industry with a 
population of about one thousand five hundred. It has excellent public schools, 
churches, lodges, clubs and benevolent and social organizations. It is famed for 
its hops, hay, sugar beets, brick, and winter racing track: It has two hotels, 
three stores and is a great grain center. Its Chamber of Commerce is doing good 
work. The fair held at Pleasanton in 1912 was the best ever given by the 
association. There are two incorporated towns in the valley—Pleasanton and 
Livermore.
        Sunol village and Sunol valley, were named for the Spanish family which, 
with others, secured the vast grant of land in that vicinity before the American 
settlement. The first store was opened there by George Foscolini about the year 
of 1860. Two years later the Argenti Hotel was opened by a Frenchman named 
Bertrand. In 1865 a school was taught by Mrs. Samuel Brown. In the early '70s 
coal and gold were found near Sunol. J. A. Johnson became a large land owner 
here in the early '80s; he bought 1,400 acres of T. J. Batchelder and Charles 
Hodsell. In October, 1884, A. Bozzi and his wife were murdered in their 
hotel—Cosmopolitan—by Giuseppe Argenti; he claimed self defense. The Vallecitos 
schoolhouse was conducted here in the Scott store building, but in 1885 the 
Sunol Glen school district was established. The Batchelder canyon at Sunol was 
greatly improved in 1885; people just began to realize what beautiful residence 
sites were there. Schools, churches, stores, shops, etc., came rapidly. Olive 
orchards thrived in this splendid climate. Mr. Batchelder built a large hotel at 
this time. Many camping parties came here seeking health and recreation. The 
Grand Army of the Republic camps came here in 1886. Speculators endeavored to 
secure the prized camping and residence sites. The glen was free from fog and 
frost and the vine, fig and olive flourished. As a summer resort the Glen was 
unsurpassed. There were fine bathing and an abundance of fish, and the woods and 
creek were alive with game. The Methodists and Congregationalists had 
congregations. In recent years the town has lost none of its beauties and other 
attractions.
        Dougherty and Dublin are two small villages in the northern part of 
Pleasanton township. The former has two hotels, two stores, shops, schools, 
churches, etc. The first schoolhouse in the county over which the flag was 
formally raised was at Dublin in 1869. The Murray school was the first in the 
eastern part of the county. It was taught by Charles Crane, brother of Judge A. 
M. Crane, in the old Alviso adobe building in 1854. J. W. Dougherty, after whom 
the station was named, was very prominent in early times; he imported Clydesdale 
horses from Scotland. Dublin and Dougherty are surrounded with fine ranches. It 
was at Dublin that Don Jose Maria Amador built his adobe residence long before 
the American settlement. From him Mr. Dougherty obtained immense tracts of land. 
Here it was also that Michael Murray after whom the township was named pitched 
his tent. John Green opened a store in 1860 on the site of the Amador valley 
hotel and here the stages changed horses. Marsh's Hotel was opened the same 
year. The Catholics built their church in 1859.
        Other villages in the eastern part of the county are Midway where Frank 
Heare built the Zinc House about 1855; Mountain House near which the early 
bandits made their rendezvous; Altamont which is 749 feet above the sea and was 
started in 1869 by Edward Hobler. John Campbell, E. Cockerton, Nicholas Shearer, 
William H. Wright located in that vicinity, Gayle, Greenville, Ulmar, etc.
        The towns of Washington township, lying within a comparatively few miles 
of one another, form what might almost be termed a "Greater Washington 
Township," or simply "Washington." 'There are the following leading towns with 
estimated population including the suburbs: Niles, 1,500; Centerville, 1,425; 
Newark, 1,200; Alvarado, 1,100; Irvington, 1,050; Decoto, 850; Mission San Jose, 
800; Warm Springs, 600; total, 8,525. They form almost a single community and 
are closely related by social and commercial ties. In the early '50s Niles was 
called Gophertown. In 1862 J. J. Vallejo built the flour mill on Alameda 
creek—the second in the county. A little village grew and was called Vallejo 
Mills. Late in the '50s there were a few fences about Niles. The young men rode 
everywhere on their mustangs. The Niles bridge was built early by the county 
board.
        Niles town site in 1877 was in a triangle of about fourteen acres 
bounded on two sides by railroads and on the other by the creek. This site was 
owned mainly by the railroad company and the Spring Valley Water Company. North 
of the railroad was part of a ranch of 10,000 acres owned by J. T. Clark. 
Several fine mineral springs were near the town and a large hotel to utilize the 
water was contemplated in 1877. The railroad company bought 200 acres of the 
Clark ranch and had the tract surveyed as a town, but the lots did not sell and 
the land was leased to A. J. Scott who put it in grain. In July, 1877, the town 
had two hotels, two blacksmith shops, an express and telegraph office, a large 
warehouse and gristmill, the latter owned by the Spring Valley Water Company and 
leased to Mr. Laumeister. The mill was built early by J. J. Vallejo who at one 
time owned about fifty thousand acres in that vicinity. W. B. King conducted the 
Depot House. The new Niles was laid out west of the old town and the old name 
Vallejo Mills fell into disuse. At Niles in recent years are a state bank; 
Trinity church; Washington Press; Niles Woman's Club; Township Register; three 
hotels; several lodges and clubs; fine public schools; the Washington township 
high school; California nursery; California Pressed Brick Company; Ames 
Manufacturing Company; California Building Material Company; warehouses; box 
factories; lumber yards; planing mills; Citizens' Water Company; two churches; 
Public Improvement Club; Ladies' Guild, etc. Niles is the center of fruit 
industry—apricot, cherry, orange, lemon and grapes. Shipments are very large.
        Centerville was called Hardscrabble at an early date and was on the old 
Mission road. A small store was established there in the '50s and by 1870 there 
was a population of about one hundred and fifty and two stores and a few shops. 
Among the first residents of that vicinity were Captain Moore, William Moore, 
Ab. Harris, Joseph Schwitzer, Joseph Mason, Captain Mayhew, Mr. Beard, Doctor 
Bucknell, Richard Threlfahl, Mr. Breyfogle and others. By 1877 the population 
was about three hundred and there were three stores. Now there is a population 
of nearly one thousand, with banks, churches, schools, merchants, lodges, 
societies. Near are grown large quantities of grain, vegetables and fruit. In 
1906 fire nearly destroyed the town, the total loss being about fifty thousand 
dollars.  
        Newark is a prosperous town of recent development, though its first 
settlers were among the first in this part of the county. It has now a 
population of about one thousand and two hundred. It became prominent because of 
its location at a point where the narrow-gauge railroad established its division 
terminal, connecting with boats on the bay. Car works, stove foundries and other 
enterprises were located there. The discontinuance of the ferry service hurt the 
town, but the construction of the bridge across the bay retrieved the damage. 
Now whole trains of cars are delivered in San Francisco by means of the bridge. 
The result is that hundreds of families have located at this point. Near are the 
salt works. Dairying is an important industry here. Schools, churches, 
mercantile houses, shops and other features are now prominent.
        Alvarado was the first county seat, but did not long retain the 
distinction. The removal occurred in 1854-55, the first county vote being as 
follows: Alameda 232, Alvarado 614, San Leandro 782, Oakland 18, San Lorenzo 
220, Hayward 15. There being no decision at this election another was held with 
this result—San Leandro, 1,301, Alvarado 1,067. Previous to 1854 Alvarado was 
the leading town of the county, with schools, churches, stores and factories. E. 
A. Richmond was postmaster early. Union City and Alvarado practically merged 
into one town. Alvarado was first called New Haven, but was changed to the 
former in honor of General Alvarado. Dog Corners was a small settlement half way 
between Centerville and Irving. Mormon Town was in the hills east of the valley. 
Irving was called Niggar Corners. Red Hornr built a hotel at Union City in 1853. 
It was a wild place then. A new comer was given his choice of four things to do, 
as follows: Drink, smoke, gamble or leave. Nearly all gambled, and it was a 
common sight to see the eight sided $50 gold pieces on the tables: In later 
times Alvarado became famous as the site of the beet sugar factory and as the 
center of the artesian water supply. In July, 1877, Alvarado contained a 
population of about four hundred. It was a prosperous town before Oakland 
amounted to much. On a point of Alameda creek large numbers of Spanish cattle 
were then slaughtered for their hides and tallow which were carried to San 
Francisco by whale boats. This was one of the items which first marked Alvarado 
as a growing town. At that time there was deep water in the creek and schooners 
of from fifty to one hundred tons burden plied from this place to other bay 
ports. One building there was made in Maine, brought here by vessel and erected 
in 1850. The old courthouse was long a landmark. It was a frame structure, the 
lower story used as a store and the upper for county business. At first the 
schooners which came here did all the freighting for the producers of the whole 
Livermore valley, but ere long other bay ports took much of this trade. In 1855 
when the courthouse was removed to San Leandro, much of the business left 
Alvarado. The J. M. Horner gristmill was said to have cost $120,000, but it did 
not pay and was removed to Livermore. The town ceased to grow, a few fires 
destroyed several of the best establishments, the earthquake of 1868 ruined a 
large wagon and blacksmith shop, and the town for several years was quiet and 
despondent. But in 1877 Alvarado showed signs of a renewal of business activity 
and growth. W. M. Liston's hotel began to fill up. At this time Mr. Liston was 
about everything in the town—road-master, notary, mail carrier and in reality 
postmaster.  In 1889 Alvarado had a promising outlook as a manufacturing center. 
The sugar factory employed about two hundred persons and near by grew 1,200 
acres of beets for its use. A large lime kiln was being constructed. The stove 
factory employed thirty-five men; it used the building which was constructed in 
1852 and was the flour mill of J. M. and W. Y. Horner, but which passed to C. J. 
Stevens, and finally in 1870 to the stove company. When the mill was built the 
carpenters who worked thereon were paid $16 per day. Near the stove factory were 
the chemical works, glue being one of the principal products. General Houston 
was connected with this industry. At the present time the combined towns have a 
population of about one thousand one hundred. The leading features are the beet 
sugar factory, salt works, the water supply system, Bank of Alvarado, three 
stores, two or three churches, a big grammar school building and numerous shops.
        Irvington, which has a population of over one thousand, was known early 
as Washington Corners. The railroad station was at first at Washington, but in 
1884 was changed to Irvington. The name of the town and postoffice was Irving. 
The establishment of Washington College was a result of the efforts of the San 
Jose Mission Land Company to distribute and improve a large tract of land for 
the benefit of its shareholders and to endow two colleges, one for the males at 
San Jose and one for the females here. Sebert Lyser established a small 
newspaper in 1875. At this time the Alameda Independent was issued here. In 1875 
Washington College was crowded with students. A fine grammar school building was 
erected there in 1875 at a cost of $3,500. In recent years the Anderson Academy 
is a conspicuous educational institution. Near is the Nutwood stock farm. Around 
are grown large quantities of grapes, fruit, hay, grain and vegetables. This is 
the apricot section of the county. The town has a big Odd Fellows building, a 
big wagon and plow factory, etc.
        Decoto has a population of about eight hundred and fifty. It has a large 
brick plant, a large contracting concern and numerous shops, stores, and other 
business establishments. It has two warehouses, one hotel, etc. The Home for 
Masonic Widows and Orphans is located here. The corner stone was laid in 
October, 1896. Jacob Voorsanger was chief orator. An immense crowd was present.
        The Mission of San Jose founded in 1797, the first settlement in the 
county, soon outdistanced its rivals, San Francisco and Santa Clara, both in 
number of its converts and the extent and variety of its wealth. The Franciscan 
friars Barcinallo and Merlin were in charge of the religious training. The 
executive government resided at the Presidio of San Francisco. A small 
detachment of soldiers resided at the mission to keep order and bring in the 
Indians to be educated. Between the years of 1802 and 1822, 4,573 Indians were 
baptised, 1,376 married, 2,933 died and there survived at the latter date 1,620. 
In 1834 the mission had 2,300 converts, 24,000 horned cattle, 1,100 horses and 
mules, 19,000 sheep and goats, and there were raised that year 10,000 bushels of 
wheat and corn. The change came at this time when the Mexican civil authorities 
took charge of the mission. By 1842 only about four hundred Indians were left 
and nearly all the wealth of the mission had vanished. In the end Don Jose de 
Jesus Vallejo, brother of General Vallejo, administered the estate, the first 
sale taking place in 1846. Among the earliest Americans there were E. F. Beard, 
H. C. Smith, J. M. Horner, E. Nichols, A. M. Crane, A. M. Church and H. G. 
Ellsworth. Mr. Beard obtained much of the land at Mission San Jose. The village 
started and grew rapidly. Miners and traders made it their headquarters. Large 
wagon trains passed through on their way to the mines. Many saloons were 
started. General stores were kept by Smith, Chamberlain, McClure and Musser. 
Long oats and mustard gave way to potatoes, wheat, barley and onions. Services 
were still held at the old Mission church around which grew the noble orchards 
of grapes, figs, pears, etc. Don Jesus Vallejo occupied a long, low two-story 
adobe house just opposite the church. But the earthquake of 1868 destroyed the 
old church; the walls remained and were covered with a shingle roof in place of 
the former red tile and the auditorium proper which had once rung with the 
glorias of a thousand chanting Indians was converted into a storeroom for wine 
and brandy. The old Vallejo residence was converted into a butcher shop. By 1888 
the village had two groceries, three hotels, a bakery, a harness shop, two 
blacksmiths, two butchers and half a dozen saloons. Vallejo street was the main 
avenue of the town. Juan Gallegos and C. C. McIver were extensive wine makers. 
One of the beautiful residences was that of Senor Juan Gallegos, a Costa Rican, 
whose vineyard covered 500 acres. At Irvington two miles away was the wine 
cellar of the Gallegos Wine Company—the largest in the state. The McIver 
residence, vineyard and wine cellar were large and attractive features in 1888. 
A big fire in July, 1884, destroyed a large part of Mission San Jose. The old 
mission church had a narrow escape. There being no water the men extinguished 
the blaze there with claret from the wine cellar, the property of Archbishop 
Alemany. Among those burnt out were Ehrman & Lebrecht, merchandise; the A. O. U. 
W. hall, finest in the county outside of Oakland; Washington hall; Mr. Ehrman's 
dwelling; Siegrise two dwellings; Mrs. Andrews boarding-house; John Stanley 
shop; Mr. Brown shop; J. Necall boarding house and saloon; J. Saunders dwelling 
and shop; Daniel Baker dwelling and livery stable; August Hennar saloon; Charles 
Steger hotel; Muthwellig Brothers bakery where the fire started. The total loss 
exceeded $50,000. The village now has a population of about eight hundred.
        Warm Springs first attracted outside attention as a place of resort for 
invalids and the fashionable residents of San Francisco and elsewhere. They were 
opened in 1858 by Alexander Beatty with a grand ball. Previous to this event the 
springs were utilized by Clemente Colambet who moved a house all the way from 
San Jose to this spot. Large numbers of Indians lived near. In this vicinity, on 
the hillsides, were held the annual rodeos where crowds gathered to see the 
Mexicans lasso the wild cattle. The property really passed from Colambet to A. 
A. Cohen who is said to have paid $100,000 for the 600 acres which included the 
springs. Mason City was a small place near here in early times. Malvern, 
Mallard, Merienda, Mowry station, Warm Springs station and Harrisburg are little 
villages of the present day.
        William Hayward early in 1852 came from the Polomares to the present 
site of Hayward and pitched his tent about forty rods northwest of the residence 
of Don Castro. He bought cattle of James B. Larue who owned a milk ranch near 
Mission Dolores, San Francisco, opened a store in his tent and commenced 
farming. He was the actual pioneer of the town. In the fall of the same year he 
built a house, opened a tavern and from time to time made additions to the 
building as travel on the stage line increased; stage horses were changed here. 
In a short time Joseph Worrell built a residence and several Sonorians did 
likewise and in 1853 a Mr. Finch built a blacksmith shop. The first schoolhouse 
was erected in 1855. Hayward's hall was built a little later and there several 
religious denominations held forth until 1861 when the Congregational church was 
erected. In 1856 Colonel Hayward was appointed postmaster by President Buchanan 
and held the position continuously until about 1890. Chisholm's and Roberts' 
landings were established in 1852 and sloops began to ply along the sloughs as 
far as Mayhew's and Morey's landings. While Colonel Hayward still lived in his 
tent William Blacow, John Threlfahl, Ed. Nichaus. L. P. Gates, Wiliam Tyson, 
Charles Breyfogle and the Morrisons, Haleys, Marstons, Briers, and Kelseys were 
located near on Alameda creek. In 1851 barley sold for 12½ cents per pound. 
Squirrels and grasshoppers were great pests. By 1870 the town had three or four 
stores, many shops, several factories, schools, churches, lodges, clubs, 
societies, lawyers, doctors and was the center of a great grain and fruit 
raising section. It had a fine trotting park or track; a big grain warehouse; 
Odd Fellows hall; a large flour mill; the Hayward Hotel; and two dry goods 
stores. In 1876 the town was incorporated and named Hayward for William Hayward, 
the first settler after the Castros. The first trustees were J. D. Austin, 
Joseph Pimentel, John Manzer, L. Linekin and J. A. Cunningham. A town jail was 
built in 1877. At this time the town began suit to settle the title to the plaza 
and commenced to grade and light the streets. The private fire department was 
more fully organized and drilled and was taken over by the town. Joel Russell 
was town attorney. Water pipes were laid by Joseph Pimentel in 1878. William 
Hayward was elected justice of the peace. In 1879 a board of health was created 
and consisted of Doctors Smith, Hinckley, Thorndike, Hermann and Paine. Smalley 
and Baxter were fire commissioners. A fire engine was purchased. Hayward had a 
newspaper, the Plaindealer, which failed and was suspended late in 1874—went to 
its creditors in San Francisco. The city had a large flouring mill at this date. 
Mr. Hayward kept the leading hotel. The public school was poorly attended and 
was closed late in November, 1874, for lack of pupils. Squirrel poisoning was 
carried on so extensively that many birds were also killed. The coal mine 
employed C. R. Worland as superintendent and resumed work; a new strata of coal 
was struck. The big Edmundson warehouse at Hayward which was ready for removal 
to San Leandro in April, 1875, was burned to the ground. The Hayward Journal was 
the local paper at this date. The quarterly meeting of the M. E. church was well 
attended. Steps to build a parsonage were taken. The stewards were E. N. Warren, 
J. L. Hollis, John Manzer, W. J. Bolce, J. Audette, A. M. Bullock and Walker 
Baker. In the spring of 1877 William Hayward appeared in the district court and 
prayed for an injunction to restrain John Manzer, Thomas A. Cunningham, Joseph 
Pimentel, L. Linekin and J. D. Austin, trustees of the town of Hayward, from 
trespassing upon a certain block of land in that town.  The town trustees 
believed the block to be public property and directed the marshal to tear down 
the fence which he did though forbidden by Mr. Hayward. The latter claimed $500 
for the damages done. The court granted the injunction. Mr. Hayward claimed to 
have a title to the property from the former owners of San Lorenzo rancho. In 
July, 1877, the school children of Hayward numbered about two hundred and 
seventy-five. A. C. Bloomer was principal and Miss Maud Russell, Miss Stevenson, 
Miss McCord and Miss Regan were assistants. It was claimed that Hayward at this 
time had more business houses for its size than any town in the state. Business 
interests had demanded the incorporation of the town. There were Linekin & 
Brother, Mack & Audette, stores; Rivers and Brown, blacksmith shops; Goodell, 
harness and saddles; Strobel and Nendeck and May, meat markets; Zambrisky, 
Hanson and Muller, boot and shoe stores; Booker & Hermann and Palmetag, 
breweries; Mrs. White and Miss Hinckley, millinery; Smalley and Hayward, livery 
stables; two barber­shops; Oakes' Hayward's and Planter's hotels; one or two 
restaurants; about eight saloons; postoffice, Mr. Cooper, postmaster; L. H. 
Brown, agent for Wells Fargo & Co.'s express; Carpenter and Pann, bakeries; 
Collins and Cooper, drug stores; Cooper, Reynolds and Kimball, physicians; the 
Hayward Journal edited by Frank Dallam; five general stores by George Brown, A. 
Collins, Culp & Son, H. H. River and N. Nisson; Sons of Temperance, Good 
Templars, Champion of the Red Cross, Odd Fellows; William Whidden, justice. Many 
prairie schooners came from near Dublin laden with grain. Hayward had a rose 
bush 100 feet in circumference. The Weekly Journal was founded in 1877 by 
Charles Coolidge. Later Frank M. Dallam took possession, but in 1882 George A. 
Oakes purchased the property. Sycamore Lodge, I. O. O. F. was organized in 1866 
; Hayward Lodge, A. O. U. W. in 1878 and Hercules Council, O. C. F. in 1883. In 
1883 the population of Hayward was about one thousand two hundred. Its busy 
streets and handsome stores spoke well for the people and the town. It had three 
churches—Congregational, Methodist and Catholic. Its school was in a most 
flourishing condition, and the building was an ornament to the place. The hotel 
accommodation was first-class, and its two newspapers—only one of which was 
printed in the town—had a considerable circulation in the surrounding district. 
For the fiscal year 1883-84 the revenue of Hayward was $3,654.40, and the 
expenses $2,586. Agapius Honcharenko, a Russian, raised mushrooms on the hills 
near Hayward in 1883. He obtained the sperm bricks from New York. The Bank of 
Hayward was established in 1883, the first directors being D. S. Smalley, Chris. 
Hermann, Henry Strobel, A. C. Henry and P. R. Borien. The capital was $50,000. 
A. C. Henry held 275 shares and twenty-six others held the remainder. The 
Strowbridge sale of real estate near Hayward, took place in August, 1884. The 
tract was called the Garden of Eden. The homestead of 200 acres was sold to 
Allen Lee for $25,000. There were sold also twenty-eight other tracts from ten 
to twenty acres each. The entire sale aggregating $93,000, the average being 
$186.50 an acre. Among the buyers were Lee, Bradley, Gannon, Vail Roberts, 
Murdock Marks, Joseph Hughes, Armstrong, Hemingway Batistee, Smiley and Koch. In 
1883 the Hayward town improvements amounted to $24,000 and in 1884 to $29,150. 
The surrounding territory was growing very rapidly. The gas works at Hayward 
were commenced in 1884 and finished the following year. The Bank of Hayward in 
1884 showed total resources of $43,304. Its capital was $18,700 and its deposits 
$23,363. In 1886 the growth of Hayward was rapid and pronounced. Castro Valley 
was gaining very fast in population. In 1872 there were but fourteen houses in 
the valley, but in 1886 they numbered hundreds and nearly all the population 
were engaged in growing fruit. All the old ranches were divided and sub-divided 
to accommodate the new arrivals. The hills which but a few years before were 
used exclusively for pasture, were now being cultivated. The old Strowbridge and 
Atherton estates were cut into small fruit farms largely through the efforts of 
Mr. Rhodehamel who induced the owners to lower the price to $85 per acre. In 
1884 Castro valley polled 177 votes and in 1886 had over two hundred. San 
Leandro was also growing rapidly, but San Lorenzo and Mount Eden remained nearly 
stationary. In 1886 the supreme court in the case of Hayward vs. Manzer, et. 
al., affirmed the decision of the superior court in favor of the plaintiff who 
brought an action as before stated to recover damages for trespass committed by 
the defendants, the marshal and the board of trustees of the town of Hayward. He 
complained that they unlawfully intruded upon his land, tore down his fences, 
cut down and dug up his trees and threw open his land for use as a public 
highway of the town. The court decided that the property belonged to Mr. Hayward 
and had never been surrendered or deeded to the town or in any other way been 
turned over to them; on the contrary for about twenty years, had been in the 
undisputed possession of the plaintiff. The year 1889 was a prosperous one for 
Hayward; improvements aggregated $105,100 in value, which was $50,000 greater 
than in 1888. Improvements in San Lorenzo amounted to $15,300; Castro Valley 
$16,000; near Hayward $14,000; Mount Eden $10,500. Among the improvements in 
Hayward was the Luce block, costing $12,000—the first brick structure in the 
town; the electric light plant spent $10,000 on improvements; the N. S. G. W. 
home which cost $15,000; a street car franchise to H. W. Meek, the line to run 
from the town to the depot; the large lumber and coal yard of W. P. Jessen, 
besides his big planing mill. The question before the town was whether or not to 
discard their present charter and go under the county government bill. The 
Native Sons Hall Association of Hayward was organized early in 1889 with a 
capital of $15,000. The directors were C. S. Long, T. B. Russell, A. J. Powell, 
John Geary and Milo Knox of Hayward and A. McConagley, A. G. Roberts and W. E. 
Meek of San Lorenzo and H. Petermann, Jr., of Mount Eden.
        Dublin in the early '80s had a tri-weekly mail from Hayward, but in 1890 
succeeded in having it changed to a daily service. In May, 1890, Hayward voted a 
$1,000 tax to be used for schoolhouse repairs. The expenses of the town in 
1889-90 were about $1,000 less than the year before. The total receipts in 
1889-90 were $7,925. In all 344 licenses were issued. The Fourth of July, 1890, 
was celebrated at Hayward on a grand scale, Eden Parlor, No. 113, being the 
center of attraction. This organization was a branch of the Native Sons of the 
Golden West. Their new hall was ready for occupancy on July 4, 1890, and cost 
complete $23,000. The construction of this building reflected great credit upon 
the branch and upon the public and patriotic spirit of the citizens there 
generally. Hayward in 1891 grew rapidly and added many improvements, among which 
were electric lighting, a horse car line, a new bank, several large costly 
business buildings and the projected electric road to connect with Oakland. The 
big agricultural works of Chisholm & Farrell were destroyed by fire early in 
May, 1892. Several buildings near were burned; the loss was about seventy-five 
thousand dollars. The fire company under Chief Knudson did excellent work. In 
August, 1893, Hayward voted $30,000 for the construction of a sewer system; the 
vote stood 268 for and 58 against. When B. Haas was elected treasurer of Hayward 
his bond was fixed at $8,000. When he resigned the office in 1894 he had on hand 
$18,388.47. The office had far outgrown the bond with the passage of years. 
Charles Prowse was required to give bond for $15,000, but a body of citizens 
remonstrated that this was too small—should be $50,000. Late in March, 1898, the 
people of Hayward met at Luce hall and made arrangements to establish a free 
library. Rev. G. W. Lyon presided. Already there was a board of library 
trustees. There were present Librarians Peterson of Oakland, Harbourne of 
Alameda and other prominent library officials. Nearly one thousand books were 
promised at this meeting for a nucleus. The new public library board was 
organized in August, 1901; they were R. Reid, George Toyne, F. F. Allen, Charles 
Allen and George Oakes; the latter was chosen president. Mrs. Prowse was 
selected librarian. In April the Hayward fire company was comprised of 
twenty-five men with Mr. Lane, chief engineer, at the head. The Hayward Athletic 
Club was active in 1898. Their field exercises were observed by large audiences. 
There were races of all sorts, jumping and other contests. The board of trade 
was organized late in July, 1899, with W. E. Krimer, chairman. In August about 
six hundred men, women, boys and girls were employed at the Hayward cannery. 
Many of the employes lived temporarily in tents during the canning season. Hunt 
Brothers Company and twenty-four insurance companies began suit against the San 
Lorenzo Water Company in October, 1901, for over $124,000 aggregate losses 
sustained in a recent fire because the company failed to connect its main with a 
hydrant near the cannery works according to agreement. The proposition to build 
a sanitarium near Hayward took shape in September, 1901, and an organization was 
effected with the following officers: R. Reid, president; Paul Garin, secretary; 
Bank of Hayward, treasurer. The institution took the name of Hayward sanitarium. 
Subscriptions were solicited. It was not necessary for Hayward to bond itself to 
secure money for an electric light plant. In December the Hayward Electric Light 
Company sold its plant to the Suburban Electric Light Company for $7,200. This 
was satisfactory to the town trustees. In 1901 the people of Hayward considered 
the question of a municipal water plant. They had two offers: (1) The 
Strowbridge property in Castro Valley, and (2) the Obermuller ranch of about 
thirty-one acres at Mount Eden 4½ miles from Hayward. The prices were reasonable 
and it was stated that the entire purchase price would be taken in bonds. In 
March, 1902, the American Can Company secured control of the big Hayward cannery 
of Hunt brothers. Late in 1903 Hayward commenced the construction of a fine 
schoolhouse, the cost of which was estimated at $38,000. The building was 98x125 
feet, two stories high, and contained sixteen rooms. It was completed the 
following spring. Part of the old building had been standing for forty years and 
the new house was badly needed.     During 1904 and 1905 over five hundred 
inhabitants were added to the population of Hayward and 200 private residences 
were built. Among others were the Carnegie library and the fine public school 
building. Land near Hayward was worth from $250 to $1,200 per acre. During 1910 
Hayward spent over $107,000 for buildings; $150,000 on the new parking system 
and secured a new electric railway. The poultry industry there had assumed 
gigantic proportions. A new grammar schoolhouse was planned, and a large sum was 
spent on the street paving. Russell City, virtually a suburb of Hayward, was 
growing rapidly; it planned a modern auditorium for public meetings of all 
sorts. The new National Bank building was going up at Hayward. The laying of the 
cornerstone of the new $10,000 fire house in Hayward was witnessed by hundreds 
of people in October, 1913. There were present the town officials, fire 
commissioners, and the Hayward Concert band. John E. Geary spoke first and 
introduced Mayor Heyer who said the next progressive step for the city would be 
the erection of a town hall and thanked the public for the support given in 
carrying the bonds. In recent years Hayward has grown rapidly and permanently. 
The high school building costing about eighty thousand dollars, is the pride of 
the city. It was built under the union law of the state. The city has electric 
lights; an electric railroad to Oakland; a scenic boulevard; an electric chicken 
hatchery; a new theater; six or seven religious organizations; several clubs and 
societies; a mayor —Charles W. Heyer—who has served about sixteen years; three 
or four banks; chamber of commerce; baseball club; three hotels; a business 
school; two or three newspapers; women's federated clubs organization; Epworth 
League; Ladies' Guild, etc.
        San Leandro was formerly the county seat. The first settler was Don Jose 
Joaquin Estudillo who located there about the year 1840, but did not secure his 
land grant from the Mexican Government until 1842. In 1850 his house was the 
only one on the present town site. In 1855 there were but three buildings 
there—the Estudillo residence, burned down that year; the Estudillo hotel, 
erected in the spring of 1855, and a combined stage station and saloon 
established by Charles Ray about 1851. In 1855-56 Mr. Hirschfeldter started a 
store in a house built by James Taylor. Daniel McMillan built a residence in 
1856, and the same year a schoolhouse was erected. The courthouse was originally 
Martin's restaurant building, but later the county buildings occupied a block 
near the convent, donated by the Estudillo family. The village was a stage 
station between Oakland and San Jose. Charles McLaughlin owned the line and one 
of the drivers was Charles Parkhurst who when death came proved to be a woman. 
The village was first known as "Squatterville," because so many settlers 
squatted on the Estudillo ranch. John Boyle was an early blacksmith. In 1854 the 
San Leandro House was built by A. E. Crane. After it became the county seat the 
village grew rapidly and by 1860 had three stores, eight or ten shops of various 
kinds, schools, churches, lodges, clubs and societies. The Bachelor's Club was 
organized in 1857 with John A. Lent as respectful great grampus. It debated many 
popular questions. Any member who married was expelled in disgrace and 
resolutions of grief over his sad fate were passed and spread upon the records. 
By 1870 there were at San Leandro the Baker & Hamilton Plow Works, Davidson & 
Company's plow works, a big public school building, a public hall owned by G. E. 
Smith, the courthouse and county offices, several lawyers, doctors and 
ministers, a few stores and many shops. Shortly before the removal of the county 
seat, the town of San Leandro was incorporated as a city of the sixth class 
in1872. It grew rapidly after this event; its streets and squares were put in 
good order, the school was improved, water was secured, the liquor traffic was 
regulated, economy in town government was practiced, and there was $3,000 in the 
treasury in July, 1875. Private improvements kept pace with public advancement. 
A small newspaper was issued there —the San Leandro Record. Three Chinamen 
became members of the Presbyterian church there in July, 1875. A weekly paper 
called the Plaindealer was started at San Leandro on March 28, 1874, by W. L. 
Eason and R. M. Saul.  The authorities of San Leandro levied an excessive liquor 
license and were very severe on violators. The saloonkeepers refused to pay the 
license and upon trial demanded a jury and raised enough funds to defeat  
justice. Gold was found in the range of mountains back of San Leandro in 1874-75 
by T. P. Gilmore, a metallurgist engaged in the reduction works at East Oakland. 
Two veins which were promising were found about four miles northeast of San 
Leandro. Rock there assayed $25 per ton in silver and copper; other samples 
showed $7 per ton in gold and silver. Early in November, 1876, the Sweepstakes 
Plow Company's works at San Leandro was burned down and thirty workmen were 
thrown out of employment. Building and other improvements were in rapid progress 
in San Leandro in July, 1877. S. K. Fleming was beginning a new drug store. R. 
Parker and O. H. Christy were constructing a large blacksmith shop. Mr. 
Kilpatrick was principal of the schools at this time. McMillan and Bradshaw sold 
groceries. Miss Holland and Miss McQuaid were succeeded in the schools by Miss 
Angel and Miss Tannehill. It was noted that there were seventeen places in town 
where liquor could be procured. In July, San Leandro was described as a vast 
orchard about three miles in diameter, traversed by county roads crossing in the 
center and running at right angles with a few private avenues lined with locust 
or sycamore trees, leading to beautiful residences, with two hotels, a store or 
two, a blacksmith shop, a church, a schoolhouse, and little else. William Meek's 
big place of about three thousand acres was the most notable feature. Of this 
tract 250 acres contained about forty-five thousand fruit trees. However, John 
Martin's orchard was far the older; it consisted of about one hundred acres of 
his farm of 500 acres. There were other fine properties. J. G. Chestnut later 
was in charge of the school with Miss Vose and Miss Penwell as assistants. 
Chestnut was candidate for county superintendent. The town had a fire company, 
or hose company. Manuel Ladoo a mile below town raised 510 sacks of grain from 
ten acres. John Mathews harvested 8,000 sacks of grain this season. The 
Presbyterians established a society in 1866, although services of that 
denomination were held in 1864; their building was erected in 1869. The Roman 
Catholic church was commenced in 1864 and dedicated the same year. Eden Lodge, 
Masons, was organized in 1887; San Leandro Lodge, Odd Fellows, in 1875; the A. 
O. U. W. in 1877; the I. O. G. T. in 1889 and the Chautauqua Literary and 
Scientific Circle in 1883. The Reporter was started in 1878 and the Sentinel in 
1880. The malleable iron works were erected at San Leandro in the fall of 1884; 
ten men were employed on the structure. The liquor license at this time gave the 
town an annual revenue of $1,500. In the '80s the Spinola hospital was a well 
patronized institution, but about 1885 seemed to go down and the building was 
finally sold for other purposes. In 1884 there was a large chautauqua class 
here. The old Temperance hall was greatly improved late in 1885, and the new 
hall seated 600 persons. It had a stage, wings, flies and dressing rooms. In 
November, 1885, the numerous Portuguese residents celebrated in fitting style 
the anniversary of the restoration of Portugal which had been subject to Spain 
from 1580 to 1640, but which then threw off the yoke and gained her precious 
independence. The original Portuguese union was organized in 1880. Its objects 
were to protect the members and their families and to cultivate friendship and 
harmony. There were thirty founders and charter members. In September, 1886, the 
San Leandro Plow Company sold out to Daniel Best who at once assumed the 
management and began making important and needed improvements. A small newspaper 
called The Young Naturalist was issued by Edmund Walkins and Thomas Sturtevant. 
In the '80s all of the newspapers of the county began to conduct separate 
columns or departments in the interest of the scientific farming and fruit 
growing. Special attention was paid to the destruction of insects and fungus 
pests. At San Leandro in 1888, the following building improvements were made: N. 
McConaghy's mansion, Meek's ranch, Martin's additions, Stenzil Brothers' 
additions, Canana's residence, Frank Covera's improvements and Lewelling's water 
improvements. Mr. Remington's traction engine was given a thorough and 
satisfactory test as a motive power for plowing. It was tested in the field just 
south of the Best Agricultural Works. It easily pulled two gangs of six plows 
each through soil that had been packed by tramping. Wood was the fuel used at 
this test. Mr. Remington was the inventor and the Best Works the manufacturer. 
At this time another tractor of forty horse­power capable of pulling three such 
gangs through packed soil was being manufactured at these works, and was 
intended for A. S. Butler. The engine tested at this time was the one which had 
previously been tried in Mr. Butler's harvest field the previous summer. Those 
were pioneer efforts to advance farming operations. Late in January, 1889, the 
traction engine works had 700 orders on hand and were operating days and many of 
the nights. Their engines were constructed to burn wood, but could use coal; 
they varied from four to fifty horse-power. On October 31, 1892, the publishers 
of the weekly newspapers of Alameda county held a preliminary meeting for the 
purpose of organizing an Alameda County Press Association. The organization was 
the outgrowth of dissatisfaction on the part of the weekly publishers over the 
refusal of the board of supervisors to give them the publication of the county 
election proclamation at a figure they considered satisfactory. At this meeting 
the Livermore Herald, San Leandro Reporter, San Leandro Standard, North Oakland 
Press, Saturday Press, West Oakland Sun, East Oakland Observer and Berkeley 
Advocate were represented. Plans for a second meeting to complete the 
organization were laid. In October the annual convention of the Unios Portugueza 
do Estado de California assembled at San Leandro. There was a large attendance. 
Good music and eloquent speeches entertained the members. In 1896, in a test 
case, a small crop of tobacco was raised near San Leandro and was highly 
successful. Over three hundred pounds were harvested and marketed. Late in 1896 
San Leandro was growing and prosperous. Among its establishments were the 
following: The harvesting machine factory; the gas and steam engine factory; the 
hay press factory; the planing mill; the wagon and harrow factory; 8 groceries; 
2 drug stores; 2 watchmakers; 2 variety stores; 3 fruit and vegetable stores; 2 
milliners; 3 hotels; 3 butcher shops; 2 bakeries; 2 furniture store; 2 harness 
shops; 1 cyclery; 1 bank; 3 lawyers; 5 doctors; 2 dentists; 3 schools—first, 
union public in two big buildings with principal and 9 teachers, second, St.. 
Mary's Convent, and third, St. Joseph's School for Boys; 4 
churches—Presbyterian. Hebrew, Catholic and Methodist; 2 Ladies' aid societies; 
and organizations of the Christian Endeavor, Epworth League, King's Daughters, 1 
chautauqua circle, several social clubs, lodges of Odd Fellows, Masons, Workmen, 
Foresters, Portuguese union, young men's institute, Eastern Star, Artisans; 3 
periodicals―Weekly Reporter, Weekly Standard and Suburban Magazine; 2 
hotels—Estudillo and San Leandro. The fine sewer system was established in 1893. 
Pure water was supplied by the Contra Costa and Oakland companies. The town had 
gas lights and electric lights, a fire department and a board of trade. The bank 
was organized in May, 1893 by Socrates Huff, with a capital of $100,000. In 
March, 1896, Mr. Hammond brought suit to prevent the city of San Leandro from 
selling $10,000 electric light bonds. In 1899 King-Morse Company built a large 
cannery which soon became one of the chief industries of the place. At this time 
the Suburban Monthly was removed from San Leandro to Oakland. The Alameda Sugar 
Company paid $4.50 per ton for sugar beets this year. In January when an 
epidemic of diphtheria prevailed at San Leandro, the use of anti-toxine checked 
the progress of the disease. Daniel McCarthy edited the San Leandro Reporter. In 
August, a choral society was formed with Mrs. L. Lynch as president. There were 
over thirty members at the start and much interest was shown and much benefit 
and pleasure derived. By 1900 San Leandro had become an important shipping 
center. More than three times the freight was handled there in 1899-1900 than in 
any previous year. Carloads of fruits were shipped direct to all the leading 
cities of the country. The King-Morse cannery was the pride of the local 
industries. In November, 1907, the chamber of commerce was organized. In recent 
years the little city has become the center of an important branch of the fruit 
growing and fruit canning industry of the county. In 1911 Mrs. Henrietta 
Farrelly, of San Leandro, endowed Samuel Merritt hospital, Oakland, with 
$50,000. The assessment of San Leandro on 1913 was $2,542,305. At this time the 
city was prosperous under Mayor J. J. Gill. Among the important movements were 
the following: Union Civic Center, Mrs. W. A. Brown, president; Estudillo 
Parlor, Native Sons of the Golden West; four or five religious organizations; 
Court of Honor;  Odd Fellows; Ladies' aid societies; St. Mark's Guild; two or 
three banks; excellent public schools; good stores, shops, hotels, factories, 
etc. The city had no high school yet. Fred B. Curry was editor and owner of the 
Standard. The growth of the business center was the pride of all the citizens.
        San Lorenzo was first called Squattertown, like several other places in 
the county in early times. The place was famous for its beautiful grove of 
native willows where as time passed, hundreds of picnic, camping and tenting 
parties assembled to enjoy the cool shade in summer. In time a high fence was 
built around the grove by the manager, Fred Bormann, and a price was charged for 
the use of the grove where were refreshment stands, a dancing pavilion, etc. 
Many of the trees carried rich mantles of vines. J. L. Shinman was postmaster at 
San Lorenzo in 1857. Duncan Cameron carried the mail through San Lorenzo from 
Oakland to San Jose. Stores, schools and shops were started in the '50s. By 1870 
the village was a lively little place. Its population now is about four hundred 
and fifty. It has two hotels; two large nurseries—Lewelling and Meek; a big plow 
and wagon factory; stores, shops, churches, schools, etc. The Union Civic Center 
here is strong and active.
        Mount Eden was first a small village on the road between San Lorenzo and 
Alvarado. John Johnson was the first settler, locating at Mount Eden Grove in 
1852. About a year later Mr. Shinman started a store and Mr. Peterson opened a 
hotel. In 1853 Mr. Johnson commenced the manufacture of salt in a small way on 
the marsh west of his property. He shipped twenty-five tons to San Francisco in 
1854, a small coaster taking the cargo. He finally owned two schooners and 
produced from 1,500 to 2,000 tons of salt annually. Mount Eden grove was a 
resort for picnic and camping parties; refreshments were provided; hunting in 
the marshes was great sport. Eden Landing was established in 1850 by the Mount 
Eden Company, an association of farmers. Richard Barrow erected warehouses there 
and ran vessels on the bay. The Barrow salt works produced 1,000 tons in 
1882-83. Early in the '80s two immense warehouses were erected to meet the 
demands of producers. In 1883 there were shipped from this station 7,000 tons of 
hay. Artesian wells were dug in the '80s; the water, soft and clear, came from a 
depth of 310 feet; the force of the flow was great. Mount Eden has two hotels, 
two stores, a schoolhouse, shops, etc. It is often called German Town. There are 
numerous landings along the bay coast in Alameda county.
        Piedmont was commenced back in the '70s as a suburban residence 
adjacency of Oakland and Berkeley. Its commanding location drew inhabitants even 
before street car facilities were provided.  Little or no business is transacted 
within its limits. On the other hand numerous organizations for the improvement 
of children and the advancement of the home have taken deep root along the 
winding avenues and on the beautiful slopes. These organizations are the pride 
of the town and have been the means of attracting inhabitants. In 1907 the 
citizens decided to incorporate by the vote of seventy-nine to thirty-eight. The 
town is governed by a board of trustees. It has now over seven hundred 
buildings—nearly all of them cheerful homes. It has schools, churches, clubs, 
leagues and other centers of thought and action. The school for girls and Mills 
Seminary are here. The latter ranks among the greatest institutions of the 
country devoted to the education and advancement of women. The town taxation is 
about $1. The county assessment is $5,965,871. Hugh Craig is mayor.
        Emeryville is located on the bay between Oakland and Berkeley and has 
become an important business center. It was incorporated about 1897 and the 
census of 1910 gave it a population of 2,613. It has a town hall, fire 
department, electric lighting system, two grammar schools and several religious 
organizations. It is a factory and railroad center and from the start was famous 
for its race track known all over the country. The stockyards are located here; 
also the baseball grounds. It is estimated that $1,800,000 is spent annually on 
the payrolls of the big factories and shops of this city. In early times it was 
called Klinknerville, then Golden Gate, Russell City, Chicken Lane, Pleasant 
View, etc., are other named spots of the county.
        Albany, though comparatively young in years, is already a place of 
prominence and is bound to become more so owing to its location and the 
enterprise of its inhabitants. It was at first known as Ocean View, under which 
name it was incorporated in 1908, but was rechristened under its present name 
the following year. When incorporated it had a population of about two hundred; 
now it has approximately one thousand five hundred. It has good business houses, 
a grammar school, St. Joseph's Academy, a public circulating library, a board of 
health, and the usual clubs, lodges and societies.
        The origin and growth of Richmond, Contra Costa County, California, 
combine to form one of the marvels of modern city development in the United 
States.
For many years attention was directed to less worthy sites for a terminal 
shipping point and a city of metropolitan proportions. Originally it was part of 
the Contra Costa opposite San Francisco and a section of the old Spanish 
ranchos; later until 1899 it was cultivated as a farm. Then the Santa Fe 
Railroad Company selected it as the most desirable site for its coast terminal. 
Here was deep water and here was a direct outlet to the East and to the fertile 
valleys of Central California without circumlocution or delay.
        No sooner was the selection of the site permanently settled than the two 
or three farmhouses, figuratively speaking, began to grow with the cottages of 
the railroad company's workmen. The company first built the tunnel that carries 
its tracks from the city proper to the ferry point. In a short time the ocean 
ships met the locomotives and loaded cars at the Richmond wharf and the meeting 
was cordial and profitable. Soon residences by the score began to stretch out 
over the plain and climb the nearest hills.
        The next great development event was the location here of the Standard 
Oil Company's works in 1903. An immense plant was put up which has since then 
been enlarged three or four times. Then came the Belt Railroad along the 
water­front, several small manufacturing concerns and in 1906 the California 
Wine Association which planned to build here the largest winery in the world. By 
this time the town had several thousand inhabitants, many stores and shops, 
schools, religious organizations, amusements, paved streets and business blocks. 
Later have come the Pullman Shops, Western Pipe & Steel Company's works, Pacific 
Porcelain Ware Company's plant, and the great quarring industry. Other business 
concerns that sprang up from time to time in quick succession were the 
following: Tilden & Eakle Lumber Company, Los Angeles Pressed Brick Company, 
Central Brick Company, Great Western Brick Company, Richmond Brick Company, 
Healy-Tibbitts Quarry Company, San Pablo Quarries Company, John Nicholl Quarry 
Company, Hutchinson Quarry Company, Stege Crushed Rock Company, Hansbrough Bros. 
Quarries, Richmond Furniture Company, R. C. Berkeley Steel Company, Metropolitan 
Match Company, Union Sulphur Phosphate Company, Stauffer Chemical Works, 
California Cap Works, Richmond Lumber Company, Jones-Slattery Planing Mill, 
Enterprise Brewery, Richmond Golden Gate Creamery, California Chair Company, 
Shaw-Harrison Gas Engine Company, United States Brignet Company, Presto-Lite 
Company, Richmond Brewing & Malt Company, Richmond Dredging Company, Pioneer 
Electric Construction Company, Pacific Electrical Manufacturing Company and many 
others. The fishing industry is large and growing. In all the city has about 
fifty million dollars invested in manufacturing enterprises, with a monthly 
payroll of over four hundred fifty thousand dollars to about five thousand 
workmen.
        As soon as the city began to assume large proportions, banks made their 
appearance to meet the demand for ready money, for checking facilities and for 
exchange and clearings. The city now has four banks, viz.: Mechanic's Bank, Bank 
of Richmond, First National Bank and Richmond Savings Bank. Their growth has 
been very rapid. From January, 1911, to January, 1912, the deposits more than 
doubled and the assets increased about 64 per cent.
        In the city are four newspapers, viz.: Richmond Daily Independent 
(morning), Richmond Daily Record-Herald (evening), Contra Costan (weekly) and 
Terminal (weekly). These four newspapers are enterprising and well conducted.  
The dailies will compare well with those of larger cities. The Evening Leader, 
another daily, flourished for a while. A monthly called the Advance had a fair, 
circulation. Other attempts to establish periodicals have been made.
        It is recognized that the origin of Richmond was due to the facilities 
for erecting wharves and piers from the shore line to deep water without much 
expense. The Santa Fe Company saw at once the advantages that must result from 
this natural condition. Their line here was built from 1899 to 1901, and as soon 
as the trains arrived passengers were transferred by ferry to San Francisco. A 
large terminal freight yard was built and a double track was extended through 
the Potrero Hills to the piers and slips at Point Richmond. This was in 1901 . 
The wharf of the Belt Railway was built at Point San Pablo at the extreme 
northern end of the Richmond water front: there is a depth of 32 feet there at 
low water within less than .two hundred feet of the natural shore line. In 
reality the city has about seventeen miles of water front and four great 
railroad systems with which to reach the outer world, viz.: Pacific Coast 
terminal of the Santa Fe; Pacific Coast terminal of the Frisco System; is 
crossed by the Southern Pacific of the Harriman System; and is reached by the 
Western Pacific over the Santa Fe tracks. The East Shore and Suburban Railroad 
connects Richmond with Berkeley, Albany and Oakland. Branch lines of street 
railway traverse the streets and are extended as time advances. Several 
extensions are now being constructed or are already in operation, notably the 
Southern Pacific Electric System.
        Thus the leading commercial advantages possessed by Richmond may be 
summed up as follows: Deep-water shipping; transcontinental railroads, terminal 
freight facilities and rates; cheap electrical power and oil fuel, both in 
unlimited quantities; proximity to markets and labor supply; distributing point 
for the products of the East and of Central California; cheap factory sites; 
belt railway that connects all business houses with sea and rail; a large inner 
harbor; presence of the United Properties Company; a region of raw material such 
as coal, iron, oil, stone, wool, cotton, minerals, lumber, fruit, vegetables, 
etc. Richmond is the second most important port in California. Here more than 
one thousand ships a year take on or discharge cargos. Already preliminary 
surveys of the harbor have been made under the orders of Congress. The principal 
exports are oil, crushed stone, wine, powder, iron and steel, brick, lumber, 
ore, acids, cement, canned fruit, porcelain ware, scrap tin, coal and immense 
quantities of miscellaneous products that reach the city over the Santa Fe 
Railroad and other highways. The city is prepared to furnish oil for the 
propulsion of all steamers of the coast and ocean. Oil burning ships are fast 
supplanting coal burners. The opening of the Panama Canal has already had a 
powerful effect on the prospects of Richmond. Many of the great ocean steamship 
companies have come here prospecting for terminal facilities and several have 
acquired interests here upon certain conditions. Already the freight and 
passenger service has gone up by leaps and bounds. The Santa Fe investment here 
aggregates about five million dollars; its monthly payroll exceeds seventy-five 
thousand dollars. The Standard Oil Company has likewise expended $5,000,000 on 
its works here; its payroll is over one hundred thousand dollars per month. 
Large additions are being made to the plant. It receives its crude oil from 
California fields through 500 miles of pipe. The Western States Gas & Electric 
Company supplies unlimited electric power at low rates to the city; it can 
supply 30,000 horse power on short notice if needed. Many of the big 
manufacturing concerns here take their power from this company. The Pullman 
Plant cost $1,500,000 and gives employment to nearly one thousand men. The 
California Wine Association Plant cost more than one million, two hundred and 
fifty thousand dollars and gives employment to several hundred men. Sixty-seven 
kinds of red wine are shipped to the markets of the world. The plant crushes 
over ten thousand tons of grapes annually. The shipping capacity is 500,000 
gallons a month. The Western Pipe & Steel Company employs about two hundred men. 
The quarrying industry is immense; the water shipments alone in 1910 were 
250,000 tons; hundreds of men are employed in the quarries.
        In 1905 Richmond was incorporated as a city of the sixth class. It grew 
so rapidly that a new form of government was demanded to meet the changed, 
enlarged and modern conditions.  Accordingly, on February 9, 1909, the voters 
ratified a new charter with greater amplitude and power. On March 4, 1909, this 
step was approved by the Legislature which gave the city its present charter of 
the fifth class. This organic instrument can be amended only by the vote of the 
people. The law making body is a council of nine members who select from their 
numbers a president who thus becomes mayor. The council members receive no 
salary. The elective and paid officials are a clerk, auditor, assessor and tax 
collector, treasurer, attorney, engineer, health commissioner, superintendent of 
streets, chief of police, fire chief, etc. The recall of a public official is 
provided for in the charter. In 1911-12 the total tax was 72 cents. The city is 
ambitious and abreast of the times with all civic improvements. Nearly a million 
and a half dollars has been spent since 1906 on sewers, street grading and other 
improvements. Many of its streets are oiled. Macdonald Avenue, 80 feet wide and 
1½ miles long is paved with asphalt. Various boulevards and drives are being 
built. The health department is doing an excellent work; it has a vigilant corps 
of workers including about half a dozen women deputies. The fire department is 
efficient and equipped with modern apparatus. The electric street lighting 
system is one of the best in the state.
        The fraternal organizations have kept pace with the growth of the city. 
Their helping and boosting work is of strong and enduring character. Among them 
are the Elks, Knights of Pythias, Masons, Odd Fellows, Red Men, Eagles, Moose, 
Yeomen, Modern Woodmen, Royal Neighbors, Woodmen of the World, Knights of the 
Maccabees, G. A. R., Native Sons, Native Daughters, Women of Woodcraft, Catholic 
Order of Foresters, Fraternal Brotherhood, Fraternal Aid Association, 
Homesteaders, Druids, Ancient Order of Foresters, Foresters of America, 
Independent Order of Foresters. N. P. E. C. and others. The Richmond Industrial 
Commission is the most powerful civic organization in the city. It has been the 
means of bringing here many manufacturing concerns.
        The schools were started early and have passed through all the stages of 
early and rapid growth. The enrollment has doubled often within a short time. 
There are seven or eight grammar school buildings and one high school. All are 
up-to-date in apparatus and instruction. Large improvements are now being made. 
The University of California lying nearly at the city limits is patronized by 
the high school graduates. The public library is the result of local women's 
work. A reading room was opened in 1909 and was gradually enlarged. The library 
is housed in a building which cost $17,500. When the library was formally opened 
in August, 1910, it had 1,450 volumes; one year later it had 3462 volumes.
        In the beautification of the city the women are bearing a conspicuous 
part. The Richmond Women's Improvement Club and the Women's Westside Improvement 
Club are important factors in this development. A general system of 
beautification has been adopted. Janice Park improvement was advanced largely by 
the women; also Grand Canon Park. East Shore Park is owned by the United 
Properties Company. The first club above mentioned became simply the Richmond 
Club. This club really built Fire House No. 2. The women clubs are the chief 
philanthropic agencies of the city. They lead in art and social improvement.
There are now ten or a dozen religious organizations here, with several 
substantial church buildings and large congregations. The church societies and 
the subordinate organizations of all sorts are numerous and are doing a great 
work in social uplift.
        Unquestionably Richmond is one of the most promising cities of the 
Pacific coast. Already it is attracting attention from the great ports of 
foreign countries and its trade is on the boom. In 1912 3,700,000 tons of 
freight were shipped.  In all respects it is a progressive, ambitious and 
promising city.