Retrospective: Archives show difficult road for Richmond middle class

As Richmond prepared to enter the 1960s, the city was about to encounter an era of rapid change. In November of 1959, readers opened the pages of the city’s daily newspaper, the Richmond Independent, to be confronted with Thanksgiving sales and headlines about next fall’s presidential race (“State GOP Supports Nixon”). The advertisements reflected an…

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Community events honor Martin Luther King’s legacy

richmond greenway martin luther king

As the nation pauses to pay tribute to the Rev. Martin Luther King Jr. Monday, the Bay Area will join the celebration with community service events, marches and musical tributes. Richmond organizers are encouraging residents to make the holiday a “day on, not a day off.” Hundreds of volunteers are expected to participate in an…

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George Livingston viewing draws family, Richmond

George Livingston looked dapper as usual as he lay in repose for a public viewing Monday night. Having devoted much of his 78 years on Earth to public service, it was only fitting that a City of Richmond pin was fastened to the left lapel of his brown suit. “George introduced me to politics” said…

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Marching in honor of King; linking Richmond

marching for king in north richmond

The residents who marched in honor of Martin Luther King Jr. Saturday morning looked to emphasize a particular aspect of his teachings: Unity. “We are moving in the direction of breaking down the barriers that separate us,” said Otheree Christian, president of the Iron Triangle Neighborhood Association, “barriers that contribute to unnecessary violence.” About 200…

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A life: Former Richmond Mayor George Livingston

george livingston

George Livingston liked looking back. His hindsight wasn’t marred by what-ifs or dubious intentions. He gave it all he had, and there’s no shame in that. “What I am proud of is I was able to help integrate the city,” Livingston said during a lengthy chat in his Richmond home in February, 2011. “I gave…

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