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The articles in this section were curated by the research team at the University of San Francisco. Subsequently, City staff utilized Artificial Intelligence tools to transcribe and summarize these articles. Original articles are available for download on each page. If you encounter any discrepancies in the summaries or transcriptions, please reach out to our Digital Applications Developer at: info@hayward-ca.gov.

To view the full articles and download a copy, click on the title of the article. 

 

Legal Fight Begun Over Valuable Realty

San Francisco Call, Dec. 23, 1909

Summary: 

The East Shore and Suburban Realty Company has initiated a lawsuit against Frederick J. Russell and the Russell City Company regarding a 250-acre land contract near Hayward valued at around $400,000. The plaintiff alleges that Russell, the defendant, violated the contract by selling the land for less than the agreed-upon price per front foot, causing purchasers to renege on their contracts. The East Shore company seeks the appointment of a receiver to enforce the contract without requesting damages. 

Era of Progress Has Begun for Hayward

San Francisco Chronicle, Feb. 06, 1911

Summary:

In 1910, Hayward exhibited remarkable progress, spending $107,635 on buildings and preparing for a new residential tract and electric road. The town's proactive approach included paving several streets, with minimal tax delinquency and property losses. Plans for a modern high school, tree-lined boulevards, and new community facilities in Russell City were in motion. Additionally, an extensive $1000 advertising campaign, including monthly pamphlets, was being organized by the newly formed Hayward Real Estate Exchange, with the...

Lot Owner Opposes High Tax Assessment

San Francisco Call, Jul. 23, 1912

Summary:

Fred J. Russell has raised concerns about assessments in Russell City, where lots are selling for $20 to $25. He argued that the entire tract could be acquired for ranch property at a 25% reduction compared to last year's assessment. 

Hot Air Peddled in Russell City

San Francisco Call, Jul. 25, 1912

Summary:

Fred J. Russell appealed to the board of supervisors to reduce property assessments in Russell City, explaining the collapse of the boom city. While Deputy Assessor Hedemark argued against a reduction, Russell claimed that the lots, currently advertised for $100, had little real value beyond $20. He stated that speculators hoped to profit from installment plan sales but found the lots difficult to resell at a higher price. Assessor Horner requested more time to inspect the lots, acknowledging the validity of Russell's statements.

Attachment Levied For Alleged $520,000 Debt

San Francisco Call, Sept. 22, 1912

Summary:

Sheriff Barnet has attached portions of Russell City still owned by Fred J. Russell and Nellie M. Russell due to a $520,000 claim filed by F. C. Immel of the East Shore Suburban Realty company.

Eight Flee as Fire Sweeps Grocery, Living Quarters

Oakland Tribune, Feb. 17, 1947

Summary:

On February 17, a fire in Russell City destroyed a grocery and service station's second-floor living quarters, prompting eight people to evacuate, with one woman suffering burns as she briefly re-entered, believing her child was still inside. Firefighters from multiple volunteer departments battled the flames for over two hours, with concerns about underground gasoline tanks. Gunshots were fired to alert neighbors. The building owner, Mrs. Elie Tourchette, and her family, except for the building contents, were safe. Damage was estimated...

Hayward Has Four-Point Plan

Oakland Tribune, Feb. 18, 1945

Summary:

Kenneth Fry, water department superintendent, was authorized to investigate the feasibility of extending water service to Russell City. Action has been requested by Kenneth Garcia, head of the Russell City Fire Department.

Chamber Meeting Held at Ashland School

Hayward Review, Jun. 13, 1945

Summary:

The Hayward Area Chamber of Commerce held a meeting at Ashland school due to the absence of a quorum for official business. During the meeting, they discussed several important topics.

Mayor Mays reported on his meeting with Supervisor George Janssen regarding road grading in Russell City. The county authorities expressed that the property value in Russell City might not justify extensive road grading or paving, even though these streets also served as drainage for stormwater.

Kenneth Garcia, a member from Russell City,...

Chamber asks Road Openings

Oakland Tribune, Dec. 12, 1946

Summary:

Directors of the Hayward Area Chamber of Commerce have expressed their support for a campaign to reopen bayshore roads for sportsmen. Director Bruno Buti noted that the closure of roads like the Oakland Airport road, Powder Company Road, and the Russell City Road has hindered access to the Bay for duck hunters, fishermen, and sailing enthusiasts. The Russell City Road, in particular, was recently closed by the county health department, leaving no access to the Bay from the area.

Russell City Turns Out for Clean-Up

Oakland Tribune, Feb. 17, 1947

Summary: 

Sponsored by Russell City Improvement League to clean up vacant lots and back yards. Purpose was to 'rid the area of unsightly debris' and raise money from salvageable materials for new fire truck.