Don't miss Bernal History Day!

August 21, 10:24 AMBernal Heights ExaminerGabriella West

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Travel  north around Bernal Hill to Bernal History Day on Folsom St.

The tireless Vicky Walker of Bernal History Project wants readers to know about this exciting event coming up on August 29, and I'm happy to oblige. It's a great combo of oral history, musical entertainment, and a neighborhood history walk afterwards:

Help us celebrate neighborhood history at the Bernal Heights History Day!

It happens on Saturday, August 29, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. at St. Anthony Immaculate Conception School (299 Precita at Folsom), and is sponsored by Bernal History Project and Friends of the San Francisco Public Library.

Admission is free and open to all, but be aware that the school entrance is not fully ADA-accessible (there is one step leading to the hall). Parking is available but limited in the streets around Precita Park as well as in the schoolyard (via entrance on Shotwell Street), but we recommend public transport, as the event is likely to be well attended.

The schedule tentatively looks like this:
* Welcome and introduction from Bernal History Project and Friends of the SFPL, Bernal branch
* Short set by singer and storyteller Nancy Schimmel
* Slideshow and talk by Terry Milne of BHP on "Activism and Open Spaces," looking at the history and establishment of our parks, open spaces, and gardens
* Q&A -- bring your Bernal-related questions
* Refreshments and a short break, after which Nancy Schimmel will play another set
* Slideshow and talk by author and historian Peter Wiley on "The Brothers and Sisters of Mullen Avenue," detailing family, social, and political life on that street between 1968 and 1980
* "The Living History Panel of Distinguished Old-Timers," moderated by Peter Wiley. We are looking for volunteers. Longtime Bernal residents, or those who grew up here and would like to share their stories -- please let us know if you'd like to be part of the panel. All that's required is a willingness to talk!
* Short set by Bernal's one-woman-band Jackie Jones and her musical saw and tap-dancing cat
* Following the program, Terry Milne of BHP will lead a History Walk of Precita Valley. Note: The walk does not include steep hills.

We'll have all our usual displays, posters, and scrapbooks, and BHP volunteers will be available to help with genealogical and historical research.

There will also be a raffle (proceeds benefit the Bernal Heights Library Campaign and the Bernal History Project) with lots of interesting Bernal-related prizes, including framed prints and local history books.
Bring your photos and family stories to share. We'll have a digital scanner on hand to copy your pictures and letters. Let us know if you want to be part of the Bernal Heights Archive, to be housed by the Bernal branch library (reopening in early 2010).