Retrace the routes of the Key System interurbans and Southern Pacific “Red Trains” along the Oakland-Emeryville border: Join a walk that will retrace the routes of the Key System interurbans and Southern Pacific “Red Trains” along the Oakland-Emeryville border to compare and contrast the repurposing of the abandoned corridors in both cities in the 20th century. In addition to the rail-related “Linden Cut”, “Towers of Power”, and the site of one of the most storied SP-Key clashes, late 19th and early 20th century Victorians in the Gaskill and Golden Gate neighborhoods will be contrasted with modern upgrades or new structures along the abandoned corridors. Specific buildings and places to be highlighted will include Temescal Creek, the Golden Gate Library and brick facades along San Pablo Ave., and a visit to “Three-Corners”. A level walk just shy of 4 mi. After, numerous nearby lunch opportunities abound.
PRE PAID RESERVATIONS are required for the Electric Trains Battle at the Border tour, as space is limited to 40 attendees. Sign up online or call 510 763-9218 to leave a message for a call back. This tour only: $25.00 members, $30.00 general. $15 discount for this tour for new or renewed membership at time of registration or with Free Tour Voucher.
Tour Leader: Stuart J. Swiedler, is a physician-scientist who has lived in Oakland since 1989. He is author of the website, The East Bay Hills Project (eastbayhillsproject.org) that combines images of the railroad with aerial views to tell the story of the development of Montclair. The East Bay Hills Project was started to leave a photographic record and satisfy the curiosity of those seeking the basis for the changes to the area. His appreciation for the impact the railroad made to the area was derived from numerous bike rides and runs through the hills between Oakland and Mount Diablo with his wife Judy.
Meet: Meeting location shared after registration.
QUESTIONS: Please call Daniel Levy at 510-289-4699 if you have registered for the tour and have any questions regarding the start location.
Notes:
Vouchers, limited-income pricing, and any other special sales circumstances will be handled onsite at the starting point on the day of the walking tour.
These tours support Oakland Heritage Alliance, a non-profit that tells Oakland’s story through walking tours, lectures, newsletters and advocacy. We welcome volunteers and new members!
PLEASE VISIT OUR WEBSITE: www.oaklandheritage.org for profiles of tour leaders. We are grateful for their skill and generosity.
THESE TOURS ARE BASED IN PART on the research of the Oakland Cultural Heritage Survey, a project of the City of Oakland Strategic Planning Division, and the resources of the Oakland History Center, 2nd floor, Oakland Main Library.
PLEASE MEET 15 MINUTES BEFORE listed time to allow for registration.
Due to the continued prevalence of CoVid, we encourage masks and social distancing, but as masks are not required outdoors by Alameda County, we are unable to enforce these suggestions. We hope you will be guided by consideration for others.
Comfortable walking shoes, sun hats and sunscreen are recommended. Bring water.
In case of substantial rain, the tour will be rescheduled.
Please check your email the morning of the walking tour for any last-minute changes, clarifications, or cancellation.