New Sidewalks in 1932
September, 2003
Long time residents of Homestead recall wooden sidewalks. The Mill Valley Record published this story on November 18, 1932:
“A large group of the progressive residents of Homestead grouped together, prepared the lanes and installed modern sidewalks on the main pedestrian pathways of Homestead. That sidewalks were needed was evidenced by the popular response to the drive for funds and the turn-out of men giving their holiday and vacation time to assist in this progressive feature. Through the splendid spirit of cooperation, Homestead could now boast of sidewalks on par with those of any surrounding municipality, if not superior to them.
“The entertainment and dance given at Homestead Scout Hall some weeks ago, under the auspices of members of the Homestead Boy Scout Organization and a few Homestead residents started the drive for necessary funds. Then contributions were solicited, and the response was spontaneous. This was for the stretch of sidewalk from Brown’s Corner to Evergreen avenue. Ernie Smith, progressive resident of Homestead, handled the financial drive for the stretch of sidewalk on Molino avenue from Heckman street to Montford avenue. He also made all arrangements for material needed and handled the work with ingenious precision.
Those enterprising and progressive residents through whose assistance, both financially and physically, Homestead now has sidewalks are: [a list of seventy names followed – ed.] With the response and cooperation shown in this community improvement, plans are already underway to continue modern sidewalks along all of Homestead’s frequented lanes. The sidewalks in, progressive Homestead will then look forward to paved roads and, (to be or not to be, that is the question?) sewers.”
Editorial comments:
1. One sidewalk was along Montford from Miller to Ethel and then Linden Lane to Evergreen. The other was along Montford from Linden Lane to Janes.
2. Today, there are no sidewalks in some sections of these stretches.
3. Homestead Scout Hall was on Linden Lane south of Evergreen.
4. It took 10 to 15 years for paved roads and sewers to become a reality.
5. Note the frequent use of the word “progressive.”
If you have comments or questions about this article or other topics
pertaining to the history of Homestead Valley,
please feel free to e-mail Chuck Oldenburg.