Foster City Historical Society

The Myth of Memory: The George Franklin Trial

BURIED follows the gripping story of Eileen Franklin who, while playing with her young daughter, suddenly had a memory of witnessing the rape and murder of her childhood best friend, 8-year-old Susan Nason, which led to a re-opening of a case that had gone unsolved for nearly 20 years. And in a shocking twist, when Eileen came forward with her memory, she told the police that she remembered the murderer was her own father, George Franklin.

Homeless Mayor: Year Without Home Gives Official a New Perspective

These records from the Foster City Historical Society detail the remarkable life of John Oliver, a local politician who maintained his seat on the City Council while experiencing homelessness. Following a series of personal and financial crises, Oliver lived in a camper truck for over a year, an experience that profoundly shaped his political advocacy for affordable housing. Despite his lack of a permanent residence, he was eventually appointed vice mayor, illustrating his resilience and the support of his community. The documents also highlight his later service as mayor, noting a commemorative bench dedicated to him and his loyal dog, Topper. Ultimately, the text serves as a biographical tribute to a leader whose struggle with poverty provided him with a unique perspective on governance and social empathy.

New Type Fire Hydrant featuring Susan Arnell, the reigning Miss Foster City

This archival record from the Foster City Historical Society highlights a unique promotional campaign from 1964 featuring Susan Arnell, the reigning Miss Foster City. In a series of vintage photographs and articles, Arnell is seen modeling a fire helmet while perched on a modernized fire hydrant to showcase the city's new infrastructure. The campaign cleverly marketed these innovative utilities as being so ergonomic they could double as seating for bus commuters. Beyond public works, the text connects Arnell to her role at "The Captain’s House," a local model home and sales office used to attract residents to the area's waterfront developments. Ultimately, the source serves as a nostalgic look at how mid-century civic pride and creative advertising were used to promote the early growth of Foster City.

Foster City’s Electric Future: Echoes of Independence in the Face of PG&E Rates

In the 1970s, Foster City leaders conducted rigorous research into establishing a municipally-owned electric system to replace their reliance on PG&E. These historical feasibility studies suggested that energy independence would have generated millions in profit for the city’s general fund while utilizing a unique, self-contained infrastructure already funded by local developers. By revisiting these archival reports, the author highlights a legacy of proactive local leadership aimed at securing financial stability and lower costs for residents. This historical reflection serves as a modern-day reminder of the potential benefits of community control over essential utilities in the face of rising corporate energy rates.

Hillbarn Theatre: A Foster City Historical Icon Celebrates its 85th Anniversary!

This episode chronicles the 85-year evolution of the Hillbarn Theatre, tracing its origins from a literal barn in 1936 to its current status as a cultural landmark in Foster City. Through an interview with Executive Artistic Director Stephen Muterspaugh, the text details the venue's geographic journey across various Bay Area locations before finding a permanent home through the generosity of the Foster family. It highlights the theater's resilience during financial and structural challenges, particularly under the leadership of Lee Foster, who established a youth conservatory to train future performers. The narrative also examines how the theater’s artistic repertoire has shifted over the decades, moving from serious dramas to popular modern musicals. Ultimately, the source emphasizes the theater's enduring community impact and its forward-looking approach to interactive and historically significant stage productions.