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by Thomas Tramble (Author), Wilma Tramble (Author)
A hub of transportation and industry since the mid-19th century, West Oakland is today a vital commercial conduit and an inimitably distinct and diverse community within the Greater Oakland
metropolitan area. The catalyst that transformed this neighborhood from a transcontinental rail terminal into a true settlement was the arrival of the railroad porters, employed by the Pullman Palace Car Company as early as 1867. After years of struggling in labor battles and negotiations, the Brotherhood of Sleeping Car Porters Union became the first African American-led union to sign a contract with a large American company. The union's West Coast headquarters were established at Fifth and Wood Streets in West Oakland. Soon families,
benevolent societies, and churches followed, and a true community came into being.
Author Biography
In pursuit of the untold histories of African American life throughout the United States, authors Thomas and Wilma Tramble reveal for the first time in this volume the many facets of a community grown from the Pullman Porters' pioneering beginnings. Images from the African American Museum and Library at Oakland and the Oakland History Room combine here with photographs from residents and descendants of original Pullman Porters. Through these generous contributions, the Trambles provide a window into the lives and times that shaped this thriving community.
