Pinole Dog Park

Pinole Dog Park 1263 Adobe Road, Pinole, California 94564, United States Pinole Valley Park has miles of hiking trails, picnic areas, a skateboard park, and children’s playgrounds. Please keep your dog on a leash while entering places not reserved for pets. Also, make sure the dog is up-to-date with shots and is a sociable pup when entering the park, since violent pets are not allowed. Since the ground is mostly coated with clay, be cautious of mud on rainy days and dust on dry days. Regardless of the heat, your dog will cool off at one of the doggie water fountains. There are two sections: one for small dogs (under 25 pounds) and one for big dogs (over 26 pounds), with ample seating for the humans on both sides. There are plenty of seats, white folding seats, and picnic tables where you can relax and mingle with other business owners. The Pinole Valley Dog Park tends to be busier at some times than at others, but there are certain regulars who bring their dogs every time they come, and you’re guaranteed to find another dog. The Pinole Valley Dog Park is a small part of the Pinole Valley Park off Adobe Road that is doggie paradise. A blue and white sign with the outline of a dog is shown. There are many old trees in the fenced-in dog park, which offer not only stunning scenery but also substantial shade. Big rocks and a tree stump have some fun elements for your dog to smell, crawl on, and discover in the forest. There’s a lot of open space and ground to play around. It also has green grass. Lots of water bowls, a water faucet, poop scoopers, and bags are all available. When it gets humid, there is plenty of parking and decent shade. It’s a pleasant and wooded environment. There’s a small area for small dogs and another for larger dogs! The majority of people are conscientious to keep their dogs on a leash, but there is some fighting every now and then. This park isn’t too crowded, so it’s ideal for doing your own thing. It’s a fun way for the dog to work on his social skills. There are also trails to cycle on as well! Overall, it’s a nice little spot for your dog to visit. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=D_kQ0QjPd9 Articles you may like Explore and Learn about Walnut Creek, California Explore and Learn about Walnut Creek, California Walnut Creek is… June 21, 2024 Walnut Creek Hiking Trails 2020 Walnut Creek Hiking Trails Walnut Creek is a community located… July 22, 2024 Park Safety in Danville, California & Danville’s Hidden Parks Park Safety in Danville, California & Danville’s Hidden Parks One… September 26, 2024 How Much Do You Know About Concrete? 101 Facts & Stats About Concrete Did you know that… July 22, 2024 Load More
Museum of Vertebrate Zoology

Museum of Vertebrate Zoology Valley Life Sciences Building, 3101 UC Berkeley Road, Berkeley, California 94720, United States The Museum of Vertebrate Zoology is located on the UC Berkeley campus and houses over 100,000 specimens. It is home to several zoological collections that are used for research, teaching, and public education. The museum has been in existence since 1908 but was recently renovated in 1997 to improve both accessibility and functionality. Founded by Professor Joseph Grinnell, it came from a series of lectures he gave to students about the different vertebrates found on campus and their use at Berkeley. He showed an interest in collecting specimens that eventually became too large for one building so when funds became available two years later, a new Museum was created on Oxford Street, Berkeley which opened its doors to visitors in 1919. The Museum now houses over 100,000 specimens from all vertebrates – fish, amphibians, reptiles, birds, and mammals – found throughout western North America. This kind of museum is beneficial for students for the following reasons: They can learn about the skeletons of different vertebrates Understand and become immersed in their habitats Be able to explore exhibits to learn more about their natural history and evolution Students can use their research center for class projects Many people think of natural history museums as entertainment venues, but they are primary centers for research that help document global biological diversity. MVZ’s collections provide a valuable resource for studying changes in animal populations. These collections allow researchers to study geographic and temporal changes, as well as track these patterns related to natural or human-induced environmental changes (e.g., climate change, landscape alteration). The work of this museum is valuable because: They bring wildlife closer to home MVZ’s collections allow for research on animal population changes They collect data that can be valuable for the environment in years to come They create new research opportunities Educational for the public It makes our world more knowledgeable The Museum of Vertebrate Zoology is a wonderful place to visit for those who want more knowledge about animals. They offer hands-on and interactive exhibits, as well as research centers where students can do class projects or get help with their homework. MVZ’s collections allow for research on animal population changes, which means they could create new opportunities in the future when it comes to wildlife conservation efforts. Plus, this museum teaches people all sorts of things – from how different vertebrates have skeletons to what habitats these creatures live in. If you need some education yourself, make sure you stop by! Berkeley, California is blessed with some of the Bay Area’s most fantastic museums. Here’s a list of our favorites: Berkeley Art Museum and Pacific Film Archive Berkeley Natural History Museums Museum of Paleontology Essig Museum of Entomology Research Lawrence Hall of Science Aftel Archive of Curious Scents Lacis Museum of Lace and Textiles Museum of Children’s Arts All of these museums are located just a short distance from our location in downtown Berkeley, at 1935 Addison Street, Suite A! Articles you may like Articles Relating to Foundations for New-Home Construction Articles Relating to Foundations for New-Home Construction Footings and foundations… September 26, 2024 Concrete Driveway Additions & Extensions: Questions To Ask Your Contractor Concrete Driveway Additions & Extensions: Questions To Ask Your Contractor… November 26, 2024 What Does It Mean To Retrofit A Home? What Does It Mean To Retrofit A Home? A detailed… November 26, 2024 Top Walnut Creek Schools 2020 Tops Schools 2020 in Walnut Creek, California Walnut Creek is… July 22, 2024 Load More
Ruth Bancroft Garden

Ruth Bancroft Garden 1552 Bancroft Rd, Walnut Creek, CA 94598, United States The Ruth Bancroft Garden is a 2.5-acre dry public garden that Ruth Bancroft maintains. This includes more than 2,000 native California, Mexico, Chile, South Africa, and Australia cactuses, succulents, trees, and shrubs. It is located at 1552 Walnut Creek Bancroft Street, California, USA. The Ruth Bancroft Garden occupies land that once was part of a 400-acre fruit farm in the Ygnacio Valley that grew walnuts and Bartlett pears. Hubert Howe Bancroft, a renowned historian, and publisher who amassed a large personal collection of books related to the American West, began the farm in the 1880s. Bancroft sold his valuable library to the University of California, which had been The Bancroft Library’s nucleus. The farm won first place in the state in the 1930s for pears 8 out of 9 years. The farm had 200 seasonal workers, at the height of growth. They exported Pears to the North and as far away as Scotland. The farm was sold to Philip Bancroft, Sr. and then to his son, Philip Bancroft, Jr. The farm remained in operation until the late 1960s when the land was rezoned for residential use in the area. The property had been sold to developers to enlarge Walnut Creek. The last walnut orchard on the property was cut down in 1971, and its owner, Ruth, was given this land by Philip Bancroft, Jr. to grow a new garden using the succulents from her vast collection. Ruth Bancroft Garden, Inc.’s goal is to conserve this outstanding example of garden design and to continue cultivating its collection of water-conserving plants for education and public enjoyment. The Ruth Bancroft Garden is a prime example of garden design art with drought-tolerant plants and is recognized as one of the world’s finest dry gardens. The Garden exhibits an extensive collection of plants from the desert and Mediterranean climates of the world, collected by Ruth Bancroft over 60 years. Each season in the Garden offers something different and visitors will be in awe of the boldness and elegance of Ruth’s work. This is the place to brighten someone’s day with a living gift. Great photos of mature plants are shown in gardens like yours to demonstrate how they should appear. People who grow, tend, and educate plants are here to help with questions and challenges about your garden. The options you buy here will grow with minimal care and water for you, as they do in 300 + plants in my gardens. Classes and workshops are also given to those who want to learn more. This amazing landmark is located near the following must-see sights in Walnut Creek, California: Lesher Center for the Arts Lindsay Wildlife Museum Mount Diablo State Park Old Borges Ranch St. Paul’s Episcopal Church Shadelands Ranch Museum Walden Park Disc Golf Course Walnut Creek Model Railroad Society All of these landmarks are located just a short distance from our location in downtown Walnut Creek, Spaulding Concrete on Locust Street. https://youtu.be/sbiN71bUlmo Articles you may like Explore and Learn about Walnut Creek, California Explore and Learn about Walnut Creek, California Walnut Creek is… June 21, 2024 Which Code Is Applicable For Earthquake Design? Which Code Is Applicable For Earthquake Design? In the event… November 26, 2024 101 Facts About Concrete Foundations In 2023 101 Facts About Concrete Foundations In 2023 Are you curious… July 19, 2024 Articles Relating to Concrete Contractors Articles Relating to Concrete Contractors Looking for Concrete Workers for… September 26, 2024 Load More
El Divisadero Park

El Divisadero Park El Divisadero Dr east of San Carlos Dr Walnut Creek, CA 94596 Building a healthy network of parks in our city is one major way we can protect our animal friends and preserve trees. This also makes the park a great place to teach children about the environment and the importance of preserving natural ecosystems. Parks benefit everyone in the community and at the same time, it helps in the city’s economy. They provide important habitats for many animals. And those are just a handful of reasons why we need to be grateful that we have El Divisadero Park in Walnut Creek. Three-acre park located in residential area behind John Muir Medical Center. Park built-in 1985 features a Jr. Soccer field-sized turf area. El Divisadero Park is a small-sized park, primarily used for soccer. Dogs are allowed on a leash and there is plenty of parking lots. It is also a nice place for jogging, brisk walking or playing catch with your dogs. El Divisadero Park makes a neighborhood more enjoyable to walk through and provide space for popular sports, encouraging people to exercise and be healthy. They provide hiking trails for walking/ running and other amenities designed to get people active. Considering how few Americans get enough exercise because of their busy schedules. Having a physical activity once in a while is incredibly important, especially for low-income families and others who can’t afford a gym membership or classes. This park also provides great opportunities for parents to bond with children, and for children to make new friends in the neighborhood. This may be a small park but still a great place for a child’s birthday, giving them the opportunity to run around safely and learn to appreciate nature. AMENITIES: 3 Acres Open Dawn to Dusk Dogs allowed on leash Parking available Soccer Field CATEGORIES: Parks Articles you may like History of Concord, California History of Concord, California In Contra Costa County, California, Concord… July 20, 2024 How Can I Improve The Looks Of My Concrete Retaining Wall? How Can I Improve The Looks Of My Concrete Retaining… July 22, 2024 5 Myths About Stamped Concrete You Probably Still Believe Why Are Concrete Foundations Important? If you’re like most people,… July 20, 2024 All About Structural Concrete What Is Reinforced Concrete? Reinforced concrete (RC) (also known as… June 22, 2024 Load More Danville, California prides itself to be the home of the following must – see parks: Hap Magee Ranch Park Osage Station Park Sycamore Valley Park Oak Hill Park Diablo Vista Park Monterosso Community Park Las Trampas Regional Wilderness Sycamore Valley Open Space South Danville South Park All of these beautiful parks are located just a short distance from our location in downtown Walnut Creek, Spaulding Concrete on Locust Street!
Park Safety in Danville, California & Danville’s Hidden Parks

Park Safety in Danville, California & Danville’s Hidden Parks One of the easiest ways to keep your mind and body safe is to remain physically involved. People can visit parks, trails, and open spaces in many areas as a way to reduce stress, get some fresh air, and keep healthy. While these facilities and areas can provide health benefits, to protect yourself and others from COVID-19, it is crucial that you follow the steps below. Try to protect against exposure to SARS-CoV-2, the virus that triggers COVID-19, by practicing social distancing and regular acts such as washing hands regularly and covering coughs and sneezes while visiting parks, beaches, or leisure facilities accessible to public use. Check with the park or recreation area in advance for safe planning National, state or local parks: the federal or state authorities and local authorities will determine if parks and other recreation facilities will be opened. Check with the park in advance to make sure you know which areas or amenities are available, such as visitor centers, bathroom facilities, and concessions, and bring with you what you need, such as hand sanitizers or other items to ensure proper hygiene. Beaches or other swimming areas: State and local authorities will decide whether to open up swimming areas in oceans, lakes and other natural waters. For more information, like whether the water is open for swimming, please consult with individual beaches. Visit the parks near your home Traveling long distances to visit the park can contribute to the spread of COVID-19, as follows: Travel may require you to stop along the way or to be in close touch with others with whom you may not normally be in contact. You may also be exposed to surfaces infected with SARS-CoV-2, a virus that triggers COVID-19. Wear a mask Please wear a mask as possible. Masks are most important in periods when social distances are challenging, including hiking on trails that may be popular or crowded. Masks are not to be put on: Kids under the age of 2 Anyone who has difficulty breathing Anyone who is unconscious cannot move or otherwise be unable to remove the mask without assistance. Masks should not be worn when you partake in activities where the mask can become wet, including swimming. Using social distances to avoid crowded parks Stay at least 6 feet from people you’re not living with (“social distance”) at all times. This could make certain open spaces, trails, and roads easier to use than others. Don’t go to a crowded place. Stop gathering people for whom you don’t live. Evite crowded parks. Don’t visit parks where you can’t stand at least 6 feet away from those you’re not staying with. Wash hands often Wash your hands frequently with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, particularly after going to the bathroom, eating, and blowing your nose, coughing, or sneezing. Adults and older children who can properly use a hand sanitizer: use a hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol and rubs hands together until it is dry if soap and water are not readily accessible. East Bay Parks issues rattlesnake advisory warning to park tourists Upon arrival of spring weather, officials of the East Bay Regional Park District noted the re-emergence of snakes—most prominently rattansnakes—and released a safety warning to park guests. According to park officials, when the weather is warm, snakes come out to explore their habitats, which can lead to further encounters with humans and dogs. There are however, some steps that can be taken to minimize the danger posed to hikers and snakes alike. Stop hiking on your own so that you can help in case of emergency—by local health orders, people can only walk with their immediate household members because of the coronavirus pandemic (COVID-19). Scan the ground in front of you as you walk, jog or ride. Keep on the trails and stop walking in the grass. Take a close look around and under logs and rocks before you settle down. Stop positioning your hands or feet where you can’t see clearly. Keep leached pets on designated trails and away from snakes if they encounter one—both dogs should be on leash at all times, in all parks during COVID-19. Bring a lot of water to yourself and your pets as a drinking fountain is temporarily closed. Many parks do not have a direct supply of water. Articles you may like A Practical Guide to Stamped Concrete Driveways A Practical Guide to Stamped Concrete Driveways Are you considering… July 22, 2024 All About Walnut Creek, California All About Walnut Creek, California Walnut Creek is a town… June 21, 2024 Hidden Gems of Martinez, California John Muir National Historic Site The John Muir House was… July 20, 2024 101 Facts About Concrete Foundations In 2023 101 Facts About Concrete Foundations In 2023 Are you curious… July 19, 2024 Load More Danville, California prides itself to be the home of the following must – see parks: Hap Magee Ranch Park Osage Station Park Sycamore Valley Park Oak Hill Park Diablo Vista Park Monterosso Community Park Las Trampas Regional Wilderness Sycamore Valley Open Space South Danville South Park All of these beautiful parks are located just a short distance from our location in downtown Walnut Creek, Spaulding Concrete on Locust Street!
Concord, California: The Absolute Top Attractions for 2020

Concord, California: The Absolute Top Attractions for 2020 In Contra Costa County, California, Concord is the largest city. The city had a population of 122,067 at the 2010 census which made it the 8th largest city in the San Francisco Bay Area. Concord is bordered on the west by Pleasant Hill and the unincorporated community of Pacheco, on the south by Walnut Creek, on the southeast by Clayton, on the northeast by Pittsburg, and on the north by the unincorporated community of Bay Point. While it shares no boundary with Concord, Martinez (the county seat) is located on the northwest almost directly adjacent to Concord. Martinez BART Station is also known as North Concord BART Station. Concord was established on the initiative of Pacheco in 1869 under the name of Todos Santos (“all saints”; a name still born between Willow Pass Road and Salvio Street in the central city square and park). It gained prominence in the 19th century, when most Pacheco residents relocated to Concord to avoid the fire and flood devastation that crippled Pacheco’s formerly booming economy. On 5 February 1905 Concord was incorporated. A broad agricultural region was the region around Concord, in the nearby Ygnacio and Clayton Valleys. Grown crops comprised grapes, walnuts , almonds, wheat, hay, and even tomatoes. The field to the east (now the Concord Naval Weapons Station site) was the location of a few large wheat ranches over 5,000 acres (20 km2), and was nearly a wheat sea all the way to the marshes surrounding Suisun Bay. Many vineyards were abandoned during Prohibition, and replaced with walnut orchards. Cement was developed by the town of Cowell, which is now integrated into Concord. The first post office in Concord opened in 1872. Throughout World War II, the ammunition on board a Navy cargo ship exploded while being loaded, resulting in the highest number of African American deaths in any one incident during that battle. On the evening of 17 July 1944, 320 sailors, merchant seamen and people working at the pier were immediately killed by a major blast. It has felt the explosion 30 miles out. A subsequent failure to load any further weapons by 258 black sailors was the beginning of the Navy ‘s largest ever mutiny trial in which 50 people were found guilty. Former Supreme Court Justice Thurgood Marshall sat in on most of the hearings and claimed that he had seen a court with prejudice. This amazing attraction is located near the following must-see sights in Concord, California: Diablo Foothills Regional Park Shell Ridge Open Space Todos Santos Plaza Benicia-Martinez Bridge California Grand Casino Shadelands Ranch Museum Shiva Murugan Temple Newhall Community Park All of these landmarks are located just a short distance from our location in downtown Walnut Creek, Spaulding Concrete on Locust Street! Articles you may like Explore and Learn about Walnut Creek, California Explore and Learn about Walnut Creek, California Walnut Creek is… June 21, 2024 Why Are Concrete Foundations Important? (And 10 Other Frequently Asked Questions) Why Are Concrete Foundations Important? Concrete foundations are used in most… July 20, 2024 What is Needed for Building a Solid New Home Foundation? What is Needed for Building a Solid New Home Foundation?… July 22, 2024 What is Brushed Concrete & Why You’ll Love it for Your Driveway What is Brushed Concrete & Why You’ll Love it for… September 25, 2024 Load More
Walnut Creek Hiking Trails 2020

Walnut Creek Hiking Trails Walnut Creek is a community located in Contra Costa County, California, United States, in the San Francisco Bay Area’s East Bay district, about 16 miles (26 km) east of Oakland. With an estimated total population of 69,122, Walnut Creek serves as a gateway for its surrounding communities due to its position at the intersection of the Sacramento and San Jose (I-680) and San Francisco / Oakland (SR-24) highways and its BART accessibility. The vibrant downtown district includes hundred-year-old buildings and robust high-end shopping, hotel, and entertainment facilities. Walnut Creek holds more open space per person in the state of California than any other city. In 1974, a $6.7 million bond measure was approved by Walnut Creek voters that allowed the city to acquire 1,800 acres (730 ha) of undeveloped hillsides, ridge lines, and park sites. Walnut Creek owns portions of the open space Lime Ridge, the open space Shell Ridge, the open space Acalanes Ridge, and the open space Sugarloaf. Diablo Foothills Regional Park and Castle Rock Regional Recreation Area run in the East Bay Regional Park System, all in Walnut Creek. These are popular spots for hikers. Aside from that, some other popular hiking trails in Walnut Creek are Shell Ridge: Twin Ponds Loop, Mount Diablo Lookout from Macedo Ranch Staging Area, Shell Ridge -Borgess Ranch Loop, Shell Ridge: Indian Valley to Borges Ranch and Ridge Top Loop, Ridge Top Trail to Briones to Mount Diablo Recreational Trail Loop, Kovar Trail to Ridge Top Trail Loop, Deer Lake Trail, to Ridge Top Trail, to Briones Regional Trail, Fossil Hill, Ginder Gap, Ridge Top to Summit Ridge Trail, Ridge Top Loop, and Borges Ranch to Castle Rock via Fairy Lantern. If you are looking for some adventure, you must visit these places. Hiking, cycling around nature as a recreational sport. Hiking is a natural activity, particularly for those with sedentary jobs, which encourages physical fitness, is cost-effective and comfortable, and requires no special equipment. Because hikers can travel as far as they choose, there is no physical burden when they travel around mountains or hills. These amazing trails are located near the following must-see trails in Walnut Creek, California: Diablo Foothills Regional Park Shell Ridge Open Space Castle Rock Regional Recreation Area Lime Ridge Open Space Heather Farm Park Sugarloaf Open Space Acalanes Ridge Arbolado Park Mount Diablo State Park All of these trails are located just a short distance from our location in downtown Walnut Creek, Spaulding Concrete on Locust Street. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FHCOKu6nTDg Articles you may like Hidden Gems of Martinez, California John Muir National Historic Site The John Muir House was… July 20, 2024 Walnut Creek Hiking Trails 2020 Walnut Creek Hiking Trails Walnut Creek is a community located… July 22, 2024 Park Safety in Danville, California & Danville’s Hidden Parks Park Safety in Danville, California & Danville’s Hidden Parks One… September 26, 2024 Orinda, California Schools Covid Safety Response & Orinda Top Schools Orinda, California Schools Covid Safety Response The district of Orinda… September 26, 2024 Load More
Top Walnut Creek Schools 2020

Tops Schools 2020 in Walnut Creek, California Walnut Creek is a city located in Contra Costa County, California, United States, in the San Francisco Bay Area’s East Bay area, about 16 miles (26 km) east of Oakland. With an estimated total population of 69,122, Walnut Creek serves as a gateway for its surrounding communities due to its position at the intersection of the Sacramento and San Jose (I-680) and San Francisco / Oakland (SR-24) highways and its BART accessibility. The vibrant downtown area features hundred-year-old buildings and comprehensive high-end shopping, restaurant, and entertainment venues. Residents of Walnut Creek attend schools in five districts of the public schools. The Walnut Creek School District (K–8) has five high schools, one magnet school (K-8), and one middle school in town. Several communities are served by the Unified School District of Mount Diablo (K–12), the Acalanes Union High School District (9–12), the Unified School District of San Ramon Valley (K–12), and the Lafayette School District (K–8). The following public schools are within Walnut Creek city limits of Walnut Creek School District: Buena Vista Elementary, Indian Valley Elementary, Murwood Elementary, Parkmead Elementary, Walnut Heights Elementary, Walnut Creek Intermediate, and Tice Creek School; Walnut Creek Elementary School District in the central Bay Area is a typical TK-8 district. Neighborhood Walnut Creek is a rare mix of commercial, residential, and open space areas. The district is responsible for meeting the educational needs of approximately 3,600 students at six primary schools and one middle school. The 6th elementary school, a K-8 school, opened in 2015. GradeTK-5 students mainly study in self-contained classes, while grade 6-8 students are enrolled in both core and elective courses. The Walnut Creek School District is committed to developing educational opportunities that connect, inspire and empower all learners. WCSD, in partnership with our community, strives to create excellent educational opportunities that value students’ unique academic, social and emotional needs while providing an environment that fosters teamwork, confidence, enthusiasm, ingenuity, innovation, perseverance and a passion for learning. The District offers high-quality education for all students .. All individuals, including those with disabilities, are entitled to a free and sufficient public education (FAPE). The district provides special education and programs, in conjunction with the Federal Persons with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA). Students with disabilities are put inside the less restrictive environment. Parents who have questions about their child’s progress should speak with their child’s teacher. This amazing school is located near these other top-notch schools in Walnut Creek, California: Buena Vista Elementary Indian Valley Elementary Murwood Elementary Parkmead Elementary Walnut Heights Elementary Walnut Creek Intermediate Las Lomas High School Bancroft Elementary All of these amazing schools are located just a short distance from our location in downtown Walnut Creek, Spaulding Concrete on Locust Street. Articles you may like Orinda, California Schools Covid Safety Response & Orinda Top Schools Orinda, California Schools Covid Safety Response The district of Orinda… September 26, 2024 How to Find a Concrete Contractor You Can Trust How to Find a Concrete Contractor You Can Trust Looking… July 22, 2024 What is Brushed Concrete & Why You’ll Love it for Your Driveway What is Brushed Concrete & Why You’ll Love it for… September 25, 2024 How to Find the Best Concrete Contractor Near Me How to Find the Best Concrete Contractor Near Me Are… September 28, 2024 Load More
Hidden Gems of Martinez, California

John Muir National Historic Site The John Muir House was constructed by Dr. John Strentzel, the father-in – law of John Muir, in 1882. When Dr. Strentzel died in 1890, Mrs. Strentzel begged the Muirs to move with her into the “great home.” For the last 24 years of his life, this was going to be John Muir’s den. The “big house” is a late Victorian era (Italianate style) wood frame mansion of 17 rooms constructed on a knoll with a commanding view of the Alhambra Valley. It is a two-story building with a full basement and attic, a roof top cupola, 12-foot high ceilings in the rooms, and floor space of over 10,000 square feet. The house was designed by San Francisco architects Wolfe and Son and constructed by the Sylvester and Langabee contractors of the same area. The first floor includes an entrance hall, a formal parlor, a library with a partially enclosed porch, a family parlor, a dining room with an enclosed wardrobe, and a kitchen. Originally, two water closets existed, one of which was demolished in 1906 by John Muir. The building and furnishing of the house cost over $20,000, and included such conveniences as indoor plumbing and gas lighting. As early as 1885, there was a telephone in the building. Just prior to his death in 1914, John Muir had an electrical system installed. Rainwater collected from the roof, or pumped from one of the three wells located near the building, and stored in redwood tanks in the attic supplied water for the indoor plumbing. Any overflow went under the kitchen floor to a large brick cistern. John Muir added a three-story extension to the back of the house sometime after 1890, supporting a massive steel water tank in the attic. Seven Italian marble fireplaces were originally imported, of which only three remain. Two more have been made into bricks, and two have been cut. A large mission style that Muir had designed after the original fireplace was destroyed in the 1906 earthquake is the family parlor fireplace. During the house repairs, Muir also opened the two first floor parlors with wide archways and a smaller one in the dining room. Since Muir ‘s period, the house has remained largely structurally unaltered. Since the house was declared a National Historic Site in 1964, the National Park Service has been engaged in a continuous renovation program on the house and surrounding grounds. Whenever possible, period furniture and artifacts were used, with replica walls and floor coverings and paintings to represent the historical period. After visiting the John Muir National Historic Site in Martinez, California, make sure to stop by these other gems: Rankin Aquatic Center The Cobra Experience – Museum & Event Space Mt Wanda Hidden Lakes Park Carquinez Strait Regional Shoreline Radke Martinez Regional Shoreline Park Barrel Aged Cocktail Bar at Barrelista Roxx On Main Five Suns Brewing All of these secret spots are located just a short distance from our location in downtown Walnut Creek, Spaulding Concrete at 1461 Locust Street! https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8RSsgZjVhpIhttps://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2tM2YcBUg7I Articles you may like Everything You Need to Know About Concrete Work in Walnut Creek, Berkeley, and Sacramento Everything You Need to Know About Concrete Work in Walnut… October 12, 2024 3 Types of Concrete Foundations 3 Types of Concrete Foundations Below are helpful information for… June 22, 2024 Dog Parks Safety Tips + Top Dog Parks Near Concord, California Dog Parks Safety Tips + Top Dog Parks Near Concord,… September 26, 2024 Top 9 Home Improvement Stores Near Walnut Creek, California Top 9 Home Improvement Stores Near Walnut Creek, California/em> We… July 22, 2024 Load More
Lafayette, California Top Sites of Interest for 2020

History of Lafayette, California The Town Until World War II, Lafayette continued to act as a shopping center for nearby farmers and the young people who began to enjoy the country life just above the hills from the Oakland and San Francisco bustle. Roads were strengthened, land development increased and the stage set for the booming post-war migration that would create one of Contra Costa County’s most successful suburban towns. Before 1915 a cornfield developed just below Mt. Diablo Boulevard along Moraga Lane, the La Fiesta Shopping Center site today. In 1910 “downtown” Lafayette surrounded the triangle of land granted to the people on November 19, 1864 by the town’s founder, Elam Brown, as a public plaza. The Geils Building, the Pioneer Store, Lafayette Meat Market, Lafayette Hotel and the blacksmith shop of Peter Thomson are all situated around the Plaza from the left. About 1928 Robert Elam McNeil and his family members were photographed inside his Pioneer Shop. In 1902, McNeil purchased the market from Milton, son of Benjamin Shreve, and changed the name to Pioneer Market in the ’20’s. The building at 3535 Plaza Way is visible today. The Starks’ Lafayette Meat Market relocated to the southeast corner of Mt. Diablo Boulevard and Hough Avenue in 1920 from Moraga Road across from the Plaza. The original building was demolished in 1935, and replaced by this unique store. The structure was remodeled in 1949 and now operates as a commercial building. This picture from 1936 shows that local life was moving at an easier rate, and auto traffic was light enough to encourage cars to park “on the wrong side of the road.” The Hardware store of Clarence Brown, situated on the northeast corner of Mt. Diablo Boulevard and Oak Hill Lane, was representative of the “Main Street” architecture of the 1930’s. Brown is seen in front of the shop, and his wife, Freda. The most unique business building in Lafayette is the towered brick Garrett Building, located at 3565 Mt. Diablo Boulevard. In 1937, one of the town’s early realtors, Col. N. M. Garrett, designed the structure and unsuccessfully attempted to encourage a similar style of design for other buildings. He went so far as to buy the brick and gave it as a gift for the next door to be set up in the new Post Office. The gesture was declined. In 1925 Pat Medau’s ice cream parlor, located in the old Way Side Inn at 3521 Golden Gate Way, was a popular spot for local youngsters. Medau’s wife, Lizzie, poses behind the counter. Oil! Was the cry in 1901, when the Berkeley Crude Oil Company offered 300,000 stock shares to explore the Flood Ranch on Upper Happy Valley Road for “black gold.” Another company, the Central California Oil Company, again offered shares in a similar operation on the Flood Ranch in 1921. The prospectus described the land as “near Lafayette, 13 miles from Oakland.” Despite the sparkling promises, no “bonanza” was ever published. As the “outside” world began to discover central Contra Costa County, ads for “country estates” began to appear. This page from a 1913 brochure is labeled “View of Mt. Diablo from the New Townsite of Lafayette.” This interesting city has the following must-see sights in Lafayette, California: Lafayette BART Station Cross of Lafayette Memorial Lafayette Park Theater La Fiesta Shopping Center Lafayette Reservoir Grizzly Peak Sibley Volcanic Regional Preserve Lafayette Community Park The Clocktower Lafayette All of these landmarks are located just a short distance from our location in downtown Walnut Creek, Spaulding Concrete on Locust Street! https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8RSsgZjVhpIhttps://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2tM2YcBUg7I Articles you may like Top 10 Best Concrete Contractors near Berkeley, Californi Top 10 Best Concrete Contractors near Berkeley, California We know… July 22, 2024 Everything You Need to Know About Concrete Work in Walnut Creek, Berkeley, and Sacramento Everything You Need to Know About Concrete Work in Walnut… October 12, 2024 What Are Commercial Concrete Contractors? What Are Commercial Concrete Contractors? Commercial concrete contractors are specialized… July 19, 2024 What Are The Steps To Adding A Concrete Driveway? What Are The Steps To Adding A Concrete Driveway? Whether… July 22, 2024 Load More