2000.1.1279

A Tribune photo, dated January 23, 1942, has a caption on the back that reads: "Members of the Grand Army of the Republic gathered at the old City Hall to present Mayor Frank K. Mott (left) with the American Flag, the first flown from the new hall." A Tribune clipping, dated May 30, 1952, also attached to the back, reads in part " Memorial Day wasn't observed until 17 years after Oakland was founded in 1852 but even when our city was a small village it was eyed as a military center and has always served as a base for one of Uncle Sam's military arms. Proof lies with the adjoining photos. [There follows a listing of 7 different events in Oakland's history.] In the photo there is a loose organization of the men and women present, including men dressed in Civil War uniforms, police uniforms and civilian clothes, and women, gaily attired and wearing fancy hats. A veteran in the back row is holding a standard on which a banner heralds "Associated Veterans Mexican War 1846-1848"

Used: Oakland Tribune