Russell City was an Alameda County town and community near present-day Hayward that was destroyed in 1964. Alameda County used eminent domain to take land from the residents of Russell City.
Former residents were scattered across the Bay Area.
I asked members of an East Oakland family, my family, that were removed from Russell City, CA and landed in East Oakland in 1964 – When you hear the word “Oakland,” what comes to your mind, and why?
Jessie M. Johnson
I think of grey skies, I had to get used to, and fog. I never encountered fog as a young girl in Oklahoma – it was colder in Oakland – first thing I saw was grey skies.
Jessie M. Johnson, Retired Nurse
Jalen J. Leathers
A beautiful city – because it made me the person I am today. On top of being raised by a single mother in Oakland CA, it showed me how to be aware of my surroundings, learning how to avoid certain situations. (It) showed me how to deal with police officers. I made a lot of friends. All around it can’t get no better than Oakland.
Jalen J. Leatherss, Facilities Lead
Michael V. Johnson
Pride – because Oakland, particularly East Oakland, represents for me the foundation for which all my life has been built. It is a place where you had to demonstrate on a daily basis that you can handle yourself, that you were not someone that needed to be tested. Now you were tested but once you were and you passed the test they left you alone.
Michael V. Johnson, Corporate Executive
Carolyn E. Johnson
I smile – because it’s my home. I think of the beauty, the lake, East 14th Street. I have great memories so when I think of Oakland I think of the memories and that’s what makes me smile.
Carolyn E. Johnson, Non-Profit CEO
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