Russell City was a part of my city-Hayward, Ca from 1853 to the 1960's. It was an ethnically diverse part of Hayward but not supported by the city or Alameda County. The people there had to rely on themselves. For example, they pooled their money together to buy a used firetruck for fire services.
In the 1950's, the city of Hayward wanted to turn the area of Russell City into an industrial business park and started passing laws to prohibit people from building on the land and buying up land in the area. By the 1960's, Russell City was demolished and only the memories remain.
The Hayward Library has a exhibit of quilts that honor and try to tell the story of Russell City:
Russell City is an important part of my cities history and these quilts really do a good job in helping to keep its memory alive.
This is a lovely way to remember the town's memories, funnily enough we have a town here named Russell.
ReplyDeleteSuch a sad story, but such amazing and beautiful art work.
ReplyDeleteWOW, what awesome quilts!! Thanks so much for linking up at the Unlimited Link Party 69. Pinned.
ReplyDeleteWhat a lovely way to document history. I like the way you have included photographs and complete pieces of clothing rather than the typical patchwork.
ReplyDeleteCONGRATS! Your post is FEATURED at the Unlimited Link Party 70!
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