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1971 4

Alcatraz Hall is at 715 Peralta (861 Peralta before renumbering.) It was built in 1899-1900 for the Alcatraz Lodge of Free and Accepted Masons. Over the years, the ground-level storefront was also home to a branch library (c.1902) and a post office (c.1912). Sometime between 1941 and 1944 it was converted into apartments, and the building reconfigured from 2 stories to 3 stories plus a basement.

The Alcatraz Masonic Hall Association of West Oakland incorporated in 1899. The directors were H.S. Aldrich, H. Schlinder, D. Robertson, C.E. Snook, C.H. Redington, A.A. McKeen, and H.A. Clines. 1 Ground was broken in 1899. The building was designed by Cunningham Brothers, built by L.U. Grant of San Francisco, and dedicated June 28, 1900. 2,3

1900 3

NB: a few earlier references to Alcatraz Hall likely refer to the former meeting place of the Alcatraz Lodge at 7th and Willow.

1902 Sanborn excerpt

1912 Sanborn excerpt

1951 Sanborn excerpt

Links and References

  1. Masonic Association Incorporates Here Oakland Tribune June 18, 1898
  2. Ground Was Broken Thursday for the Masonic Building at West Oakland Oakland Times November 4, 1899
  3. Masons Dedicate Their New Hall Oakland Enquirer June 28, 1900
  4. MS189_0103 African American Museum and Library at Oakland
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