Lafayette Square Timeline

Lafayette Square Timeline. . This marker consists of a number of inscribed metal strips embedded in the walkway., 1853 - Map of Oakland is laid out by J. Kellersberg showing seven public squares, including Lafayette Square. Six are symmetrical around Broadway, the seventh is City Hall Square. , 1879 – “The City hasn’t duly considered the importance of these squares. As the City becomes more densely developed, open space will become priceless” – Mayor Washburn Andrus. , 1883 - Anthony Chabot builds the Chabot Observatory and Hall of Science and includes an 8” refractor telescope, chronometer and chronograph for astronomical use. , 1892 – The Observatory is rebuilt with many improvements. The Assembly Hall is used for ‘school festivals and patriotic exercises’ by Oakland High School sited across 11th Street. , 1918 – The Observatory is replaced by a new observatory in the Oakland Hills to take advantage of cleaner air and less night lighting. , 1929 – The original Observatory buildings are torn down. A time capsule dating from 1881 is discovered in its cornerstone. , 1930’s – The Square is used as a meeting place for unemployed men and so-called agitators to the point that a debate permit is revolted in 1934. Soup kitchens are set up during the Depression. , 1940’s – “Petticoat Corner” is established at the Square for the exclusive use of the “weaker sex” so the female population will not be subjected to the “sit and argue boys.” , 1951 – “Alfresco checkers and card games are favorite pastimes in Lafayette Square” – Jack Burroughs, Oakland Tribune. , 1958 – Lafayette Square is renovated with a new canopy restroom, horseshoe pit and game tables with funds raised by the Lakeview Junior Women’s Club. , 1960’s and 1970’s – The Square gradually become known as “Old Man’s Park” and continues to be used by the public for leisure and political activities. , 1980’s – Due to a decline in social programs and economic conditions, there is a increase in transient and homeless populations in the Square. , 1985 – Lafayette Square is designated as a City historical landmark. Mary Ann “Mother” Wright begins a food ministry at the Square. , 1989 – A City task force recommends removal of the public restroom and picnic tables and that aid to the homeless be moved to Jefferson Park. Oakland Union of the Homeless protests. , 1993 – The City’s Homeless Commission and the Center for Urban Family Life meet with park regulars to develop a strategy for Lafayette Square improvements. , 1994 – The LEF Foundation funds two local design firms to conduct broad-based community workshops and develop a master plan for the Square. , 1995 – The City adopts the Lafayette Square – Old Man’s Park Master Plan. , 1996 – The City receives a National Park Service Urban Parks and Recreation Recovery Program, (UPARR) grant to construct new restrooms in the Square. , 1997 – Measure I, a municipal bond for park improvements passed by the voters of Oakland funds Phase 1 improvements. , 1998 – The Healthy City Oakland Fund is contracted by the City to oversee the renovation of Lafayette Square Park. , 1999 – Phase 1 Master Plan improvements are completed, including the restrooms, play area, horseshoe pits and the grass hillock. An all-day celebration is held. , 2000 – The Square receives an Environmental Design Research Association/PLACES Design Award for excellence in the design of public spaces. , 2001 – Phase II of Master Plan is completed. Proposition 12, a state bond, provides funding for the completion of the Master Plan. ,