National Register Listing

Oakland Free Library-Melrose Branch

a.k.a. Oakland Public Library Melrose Branch

4805 Foothill Blvd., 1738 48th Ave., Oakland, CA
Local significance of the building:
Architecture; Social History

Listed in National Register of Historic Places in 1996.

The National Register of Historic Places is the official list of the Nation’s historic places worthy of preservation. Authorized by the National Historic Preservation Act of 1966, the National Park Service’s National Register of Historic Places is part of a national program to coordinate and support public and private efforts to identify, evaluate, and protect America’s historic and archeological resources.

architecture social history library
The California Gold Rush of 1849 brought a huge influx of people to the state. In just two years, the population of San Francisco grew from 1,000 to 25,000. However, only a small percentage of gold-seekers actually struck it rich, and many ended up in debt or poverty.
California random facts
Alameda County, located in the San Francisco Bay Area of California, has a rich history dating back thousands of years. The area was originally inhabited by Native American tribes, including the Ohlone people, who lived along the shores and in the hills of the region. They thrived on a diet consisting of fish, game, and a variety of plants.

In the late 18th century, Spanish explorers, led by Juan Bautista de Anza, arrived in the area. The Spanish established missions, including Mission San Jose, and began to establish settlements. The area eventually came under Mexican rule following Mexico's independence from Spain in 1821. During this period, the land was primarily used for cattle ranching and agriculture.

In the mid-19th century, the California Gold Rush brought a wave of settlers to the region, including Alameda County. Settlers came in search of gold, but many also recognized the potential for agriculture and industry in the area. The county became an important transportation hub with the construction of the Transcontinental Railroad and the Oakland Long Wharf, facilitating trade and commerce.

As the 20th century dawned, Alameda County experienced significant growth and development. The city of Oakland emerged as a major urban center, with a thriving port and a diverse population. The county also saw the establishment of various industries, including shipping, manufacturing, and automobile manufacturing. Alameda County played a pivotal role during World War II as a strategic military location, hosting naval bases and shipyards.

Today, Alameda County is a vibrant and diverse region, home to numerous cities and communities. It is known for its cultural institutions, tech industry, beautiful landscapes, and diverse population. The county continues to evolve, with a focus on sustainability, innovation, and quality of life for its residents.

This timeline provides a concise overview of the key events in the history of Alameda County, California.

  • 1853: Alameda County is created from a large portion of Contra Costa County
  • 1855: The city of Oakland is incorporated
  • 1868: The University of California is founded in Oakland
  • 1872: The first transcontinental railroad connection to the East Coast is completed in Oakland
  • 1874: The city of Berkeley is incorporated
  • 1900: The city of Fremont is incorporated
  • 1906: The devastating San Francisco earthquake also affects Alameda County
  • 1916: Alameda County courthouse in Oakland is completed
  • 1936: The San Francisco-Oakland Bay Bridge is opened
  • 1966: The Black Panther Party is founded in Oakland
  • 1970: The Alameda County Sheriff's Office is consolidated
  • 1997: The Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory opens in Livermore