Eureka, California

Eureka is the county seat and principal city in Humboldt County, California, United States. Located adjacent to Humboldt Bay, the city is situated between extensive preserves of the world's tallest trees - the Coast Redwoods. This architecturally and historically significant coastal city serves as the regional center for government, health care, trade, and the Arts for the far North Coast of California.

[edit] History

Eureka's Pacific coastal location on Humboldt Bay adjacent to abundant Redwood forests provided a rich environment for the birth of this 19th century seaport town. Beginning more than 150 years ago, miners, loggers, and fishermen began making their mark in this pristine wilderness of the California North Coast. Before that time the area was already occupied by small groups of indigenous peoples.

[edit] Native Americans

Main article: Wiyot people

The Wiyot people lived in the area now known as Eureka for thousands of years prior to European arrival. They are the farthest-southwest people whose language has Algonquian roots. Their traditional coastal homeland ranged from the lower Mad River through Humboldt Bay and south along the lower basin of the Eel River. The Wiyot are particularly known for their basketry and fishery management. An extensive collection of highly evolved basketry of the areas indigenous groups exists in the Clarke Historical Museum in Old Town Eureka.

[edit] Humboldt Bay

European exploration of the coast of what would become northern California beginning as early as 1579 repeatedly missed definitively locating Humboldt Bay. This was due to a combination of geographic features, often aided by weather conditions, which concealed the narrow entrance from view. Despite a well documented 1806 siting by Russian explorers, the bay was not definitively known by Europeans until an 1849 overland exploration provided a reliable accounting of the exact location of what is now known as the second largest bay in California^[1] The timing of this discovery would lead to the May 13, 1850 founding of the settlement of Eureka on its eastern shore by the Union and Mendocino Exploring (development) companies.^[2]

[edit] Europeans in conflict with indigenous Native Americans

The first Europeans venturing into Humboldt Bay encountered the indigenous Wiyot. Records of early forays into the bay reported that the violence of the local indigenous people made it nearly impossible for landing parties to survey the area. After 1850, Europeans ultimately overwhelmed the Wiyot, whose maximum population before the Europeans was in the hundreds. Settlers cut off access to ancestral sources of food in addition to the outright taking of the land despite efforts of some US Government and military officials to assist the native peoples or at least maintain peace. A tragic slaughter on Indian Island committed by a group of locals in the spring of 1860 is detailed in the Wiyot article.^[3] The chronicle of the behavior of European settlers toward the indigenous cultures locally and throughout America is presented in detail in the Fort Humboldt State Historic Park museum, on the southern edge of the city.

[edit] Gold rush era

Secondarily to the California Gold Rush in the Sierras, prospectors discovered gold in the nearby Trinity region (along the Trinity, Klamath, and Salmon Rivers). Because miners needed a convenient alternate to the tedious overland route from Sacramento, schooners and other vessels soon arrived on recently discovered Humboldt Bay. Though the ideal location on Humboldt Bay adjacent to naturally deeper shipping channels ultimately guaranteed Eureka's development as the primary city on the bay, Arcata's proximity to developing supply lines to inland gold mines ensured supremacy over Eureka through 1856.^[4] "Eureka" is a Greek word meaning "I have found it!" This exuberant statement of successful (or hopeful) California Gold Rush miners is also the official Motto of the State of California.

[edit] Lumber and developing economy

Many of the first arrivals who arrived as prospectors were also lumbermen, and the vast potential for industry on the bay was soon realized, especially as many hopeful miners realized the difficulty and infrequency of striking it rich in the mines. By 1854, after only four years since the founding, seven of nine mills processing timber into marketable lumber on Humboldt Bay were within Eureka. A year later 140 lumber schooners operated in Humboldt Bay, supplying lumber to other booming cities along the Pacific coast.^[5] Rapid growth of the lumber industry, depletion of forests located in close proximity to Humboldt Bay and technological advances led to the development of dozens of local, narrow gauge railroads to move the giant trees to dozens of lumber mills on Humboldt Bay.

The Carson Mansion (1886) in Eureka's Old Town

A bustling commercial district and ornate Victorians rose in proximity to the waterfront, reflecting the great prosperity experienced during this era. Hundreds of these Victorian homes remain today, of which many are totally restored and a few have always remained in their original elegance and splendor. The representation of these homes in Eureka grouped with those in nearby Arcata and the Victorian village of Ferndale are of considerable importance to the overall development of Victorian architecture built in the nation. The magnificent Carson Mansion on 2nd and M Streets, is perhaps the most spectacular Victorian in the nation. The home was built between 1884-1886 by renowned 19th Century architects Newsom and Newsom for lumber baron William M. Carson. This project was designed to keep mill workers and expert craftsman busy during a slow period in the industry. Old Town Eureka, the original downtown center of this busy city in the 19th Century, has been restored and has become a lively arts center.^[6] The Old Town area has been declared an Historic District by the National Register of Historic Places. This nexus of culture behind the redwood curtain still contains much of its Victorian architecture, which, if not maintained as homes, have been transformed into scores of unique lodgings, restaurants, and small shops featuring a burgeoning cottage industry of hand-made creations from glass ware to wood burning stoves and a large variety of art created locally.

[edit] Fishing, shipping, and boating

Eureka's founding and livelihood was and remains linked to Humboldt Bay, the Pacific Ocean, and related industries, especially fishing. Salmon fisheries sprang up along the Eel River as early as 1851, and within seven years, 2,000 barrels of cured fish and 50,000 pounds of smoked salmon were processed and shipped out of Humboldt Bay annually, primarily from processing plants on Eureka's waterfront, which exist to this day. By 1858 the first of many ships built in Eureka was launched, beginning an industry that spanned scores of years. The bay is also the site of one of the west coast's largest Oyster farming operations, which began its commercial status in the nineteenth century. The Bay remains the home port to more than 200 fishing boats in two modern marinas which can berth at least 400 boats within the city limits of Eureka.^[7]

[edit] Chinese expulsion

In addition to ethnic conflict with the native and Wiyot peoples, some Eurekans joined the statewide response to the increasing Chinese presence in the 1880s. Californians led the nation in the xenophobic response to the perceived large numbers of Chinese immigrants, which ultimately led to the US Chinese Exclusion Act of 1882 (forms of this law remained in the US Code until 1943). Economic downturns and resulting competition for jobs especially led some citizens of European descent to commit sometimes violent racist actions, especially on the Pacific coast. In February 1885, the racial tension in Eureka broke when a member of two rival Chinese gangs (tongs) accidentally shot and killed a Eureka City Councilman in the crossfire between the two opposing gangs. This led to the convening of an angry mob of 600 Eurekans and resulted the forcible, permanent expulsion of all 300 Chinese residents of Eureka's Chinatown (a one block area). The Chinese did not return to Eureka until the 1950s.^[8]

[edit] Queen City of the Ultimate West^[9]

The Tudorbethan style Eureka Inn (1922)

In 1914 the first major, reliable land route was established between San Francisco and Eureka with the opening of the Northwestern Pacific Railroad, connecting Eureka through Willits, California to the northern shore of San Francisco Bay. With passenger rail service from San Francisco to the bustling Redwood Empire, Eureka's population of 7,300 swelled to 15,000 within ten years. By 1922 the Redwood Highway was completed, providing for the first reliable, direct overland route for automobiles from San Francisco. Eureka's transportation connection to the "outside" world had changed dramatically after more than half a century of uncomfortable stage rides (which could take weeks in winter) or treacherous steamship passage through the infamous Humboldt Bar and on the rarely pacified Pacific Ocean to San Francisco. The greatest symbol of this advance was the opening of the Eureka Inn (see photo, right), which coincided with the opening of the new road to "Frisco" (a favorite local nickname for San Francisco). The hotel, still one of the largest lodging properties in the region, provided quality accommodations and amenities for travelers in a style unsurpassed for its day and for the decades to come. As a result of immense civic pride during this era of expansion, Eureka officially named itself "Queen City of the Ultimate West." The tourism industry, lodging to support it, and related marketing had been born.

[edit] Post World War II

The timber industry declined along with Pacific Northwest fisheries steadily since the 1950s. Overcutting and overfishing, increased regulation, and the creation of more parkland to preserve the remnants of once extensive virgin forests, rivers, and fisheries led to diminished profits and massive layoffs of blue collared mill workers and fisherman, beginning in earnest by the 1970s. Automation of remaining consolidated milling operations and competition from other timber markets outside the nation only hastened the process of decline in the number of jobs available in logging and related industries. The challenges resulting from this economic and resulting social upheaval were significant in the lives of many Eureka and North Coast residents. However, both the local fishing industry and the timber industry still figure large in the local and state economy, though in diminished form from the past.

For the region, Eureka remains the center for commerce, healthcare, and tourism.

[edit] Geography

Eureka is ideally, if remotely, situated within California's Redwood Empire region due to its proximity to exceptional natural resources. These include the spectacular coast of the Pacific Ocean, Humboldt Bay, and several rivers in addition to Redwood National and State Parks and Humboldt Redwoods State Park. The location of Eureka on Highway 101 is 283 miles (455 km) north of San Francisco and 315 miles (507 km) north and west of Sacramento. Eureka is the closest major city to the most central point of the United States' Pacific Coastline.

Eureka's port facilities - the Port of Humboldt Bay - is the largest protected deep-water port between San Francisco Bay and Puget Sound.

The city begins with its marina on one of three islands at a narrow point on the thirteen mile (19 km) long bay and increases in elevation slightly as it spreads north, south, and especially to the east. This city of mostly one and two story wooden structures (fewer than ten buildings over 5 stories) gently encroaches at least two miles (3 km) eastward into abundant, primarily Redwood and Douglas-fir second growth forests. The city has a traditional grid that generally radiates toward the points of the compass, though a correction to more accuracy in relation to the compass just east of the older downtown and residential area is noticeable.

In areas of post-1970 development, the previously completely removed forest, gulches, and ravines and their streams remain, adding considerable character to neighborhoods that because of recency in construction often lack the splendor (and occasional disrepair) of the earlier Victorian homes.

The transition between the official city limits and smaller unincorporated areas described in the demographic section is mostly not discernible. The most recently developed eastern areas include secluded developments on a golf course (as an example) among or in close proximity to extensive second growth forest. The city then gives way to hills and mountains of the rugged coast range, which quickly exceed 2,000 feet (610 m) in elevation.

[edit] Climate

Eureka's climate is characterized by mild, rainy winters and cool, dry summers, with an average temperature of 55 degrees Fahrenheit (13 °C). The all-time highest and lowest temperatures recorded in Eureka are 87 (31 °C) on October 26, 1993, and 20 degrees (-7 °C) on January 14, 1888, respectively. Temperatures normally drop to freezing or below on only 1.7 days annually.

The area experiences coastal influence fog year round. Annual precipitation averages 39.50 inches (987.5 mm). Measurable precipitation falls on an average of 121 days each year. The wettest year was 1983 with 67.21 inches (1680.25 mm) and the dryest year was 1976 with 21.71 inches (542.75 mm). The greatest monthly precipitation was 23.21 inches (580.25 mm) in December 2002. The greatest 24-hour precipitation was 6.79 inches (169.75 mm) on December 27, 2002. Snowfall on the coast is very rare, averaging only 0.3 inch (22.5 mm); however, on February 4, 1989, 2.0 inches (5 cm) fell in Eureka and additional snow that month brought the monthly total to 3.5 inches (9 cm).

Weather observations have been taken at Eureka's downtown post office building for many years. In addition, some observations are taken at the Arcata-Eureka Airport.^[10]

Weather averages for Eureka, California
Month	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec	Year
Average high °F	54	55	55	56	58	60	61	62	63	61	58	55	58
Average low °F	41	43	43	45	48	51	52	53	51	49	45	42	47
Precipitation inches	6.4	5	5.2	2.9	1.8	0.6	0.2	0.3	0.8	2.8	5.6	6.4	38
Average high °C	12	12	12	13	14	15	16	16	17	16	14	12	14
Average low °C	5	6	6	7	8	10	11	11	10	9	7	5	8
Precipitation cm	16	12	13	7	4	1	0	0	2	7	14	16	96
Source: Weatherbase^[11] November 2006

[edit] Demographics

Eureka-Arcata-Fortuna Micropolitan Area - Eureka is the principal city of the Eureka-Arcata-Fortuna Micropolitan Area.^[12]

Greater Eureka area - Eureka has a population of approximately 42,233 including the neighborhoods of Bayview, Cutten, Myrtletown, Humboldt Hill, and Pine Hills. The Greater Eureka area makes up the largest urban area on the Pacific Coast between San Francisco and Portland.^[13]

Eureka (city limits) - According to the United States Census Bureau, the city has a total area of 14.4 square miles (37.4 km²), of which 9.4 square miles (24.50 km²) of it is land and 5.0 square miles (12.9 km²) or 34.60% of it is water. As of the census of 2000, there were 26,128 people, 10,957 households, and 5,883 families residing in the city. The population density was 2,764.5 people (1,067.5/km²). There were 11,637 housing units at an average density of 1,231.3 per square mile (475.5/km²). The racial makeup of the city was 82.46% White, 1.63% Black or African American, 4.21% Native American, 3.55% Asian, 0.33% Pacific Islander, 2.71% from other races, and 5.10% from two or more races. 7.77% of the population were Hispanic or Latino of any race.

There were 10,957 households out of which 25.8% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 34.8% were married couples living together, 14.0% had a female householder with no husband present, and 46.3% were non-families. 35.3% of all households were made up of individuals and 11.8% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.26 and the average family size was 2.93.

In the city the population was spread out with 22.4% under the age of 18, 11.6% from 18 to 24, 28.9% from 25 to 44, 23.5% from 45 to 64, and 13.7% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 37 years. For every 100 females there were 98.1 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 95.7 males.

The median income for a household in the city was $25,849, and the median income for a family was $33,438. Males had a median income of $28,706 versus $22,038 for females. The per capita income for the city was $16,174. 23.7% of the population and 15.8% of families were below the poverty line. Out of the total population, 29.6% of those under the age of 18 and 11.1% of those 65 and older were living below the poverty line.

Eureka has a broad area of influence, which includes of all of Humboldt County and portions of Del Norte County, Mendocino County, and Trinity County, a large trading area with an estimated population of 150,000.^{[citation needed]}

[edit] Economy

The economic base of the city was originally founded on timber and fishing and supplying gold mining efforts inland. Gold mining diminished quickly in the early years and activities of timber and fishing have also diminished, especially in the latter decades of the twentieth century. Today, the major industries are tourism, timber (in value), and healthcare and services (in number of jobs). Major employers today in Eureka include the following governmental entities: College of the Redwoods, The County of Humboldt, and the Humboldt County Office of Education. St. Joseph Hospital in Eureka is now the largest private employer in Eureka.^[14]

The 2000 U.S. Census indicates that 3.7% of the employed civilian population 16 years and over (totaling 20,671) worked in agriculture, forestry, fishing, and hunting industries. This percentage may not be indicative of the actual number of people in these professions as many are self-employed, especially in the fishing industry. The 2000 U.S. Census reported that 24.9% of the community worked in education, health care, and social services. Another 18.4% were employed by the government, while self employed workers totaled 11.2% of all workers. The unemployment rate in 2000 was 5.5% compared to the national average of 5.7% (calculated by dividing the unemployed population by the labor force). For the population 16 years and older, 42.7% were not in the labor force, while 57.3% were employed.^[15] According to the 2000 U.S. Census, in 1999 the median household income was $25,849 and the per capita income was $16,174. Inhabitants whose income was below poverty level in 1999 were 23.7% of the population. Of the 11,637 housing units in 2000, 94.2% of the housing units were occupied, while 5.8% were vacant. Of the occupied housing units, 46.5% were owner occupied and 53.5% were renter occupied.^[16]

[edit] Government

This article or section may be slanted towards recent events.
Please try to keep recent events in historical perspective. (February 2008)

[edit] Local government

The City of Eureka has a Mayor-Council system of governance. Primary power lies with the five council members, divided up into five wards. The Mayor has the power to appoint, as well as ceremonial duties, though the job includes presiding over council meetings, meeting visiting dignitaries, and, perhaps, the most significant bully pulpit of the region.^[17] Official city business is administered by the Office of the City Manager. The Eureka City Council regularly meets on the 1st and 3rd Tuesdays of the month at 5:30 p.m. for closed session, and 6:30 p.m. for open session. All meetings are open to the public, with the exception of the published closed session portion. Time is allowed during every council meeting for the public to address the council. The meetings are held in the Council Chambers on the 2nd floor of Eureka City Hall at 531 "K" Street, Eureka.^[18]

Recent local government issues

There have been five fatalities of alleged criminals as a result of or following direct confrontation with police officers within Eureka since 2006.

A distraught mother, Cheri Moore, on the anniversary of her son's suicide, brandished a flare gun at police and later apparently threatened officers with the gun. After her death, a Coroner's Inquest made a non-binding recommendation that officers be better trained to deal with the mentally ill, and that mental health professionals be present at crisis situations involving the mentally ill;^[19] by statute, a Coroner's Inquest can only rule on the cause of death. A multi-agency investigation recommended that no criminal charges be brought in the case, but the County District Attorney, Paul Gallegos, still had the option to bring charges.^[20] Moore's son, David Moore, has filed a civil suit against the City of Eureka in regard to his mother's death.^[21] On Monday, December 10, 2007 a sealed indictment was revealed. The grand jury indicted both the former Chief of Police, and a current Lieutenant for a single felony count of involuntary manslaughter, for their decisions to have a SWAT team enter Ms. Moore's apartment, which ultimately led to the fatal shooting. Former Chief David Douglas and current Police Lt. Anthony Zanotti requested that the arraignment be continued until Feb. 21, 2008. Superior Court Judge John Feeney then continued the arraignment to that date. Both peace officers have been released on their own recognizance, pending a trial on the felony charges.^[22]

The second occurred on October 23, 2006 when Christopher Burgess, age 16,^[23] was shot and killed after evading police at a residence. Police chased him and accused him of charging a police officer with a knife. The pursuing officer then fired and shot Mr. Burgess three times in the chest and twice in the stomach, fatally wounding the man.^[24]

The third fatal police shooting occurred on December 8, 2006. Jonni Kiyoshi Honda was wanted for alleged sexual acts with a fourteen year old. There was a long standoff, where multiple tear gas canisters were fired into his motel room. After crawling from the hotel room, he pointed his gun at officers, and did so again after being tazered, which resulted in him being shot by officers Following the shooting, the interim Chief at the time, Captain Murl Harpham^[25] requested a State investigation.^[26]^[27]

The fourth shooting occurred when a multi agency police task force attempted to arrest Zachary Cook in connection with several armed robberies. Cook allegedly opened fire on police and was killed in the resulting return fire. Toxicology reports determined Cook was under the influence of methampethamine. After this shooting, Captain Harpham stated that meth was making Eureka a "hellhole".^[28]

The fifth death was Martin Cotton II who passed away in jail two hours after being arrested. EPD responded to a local homeless shelter for a call of Cotton fighting other residents. He had been acting aggressively and starting multiple fights with multiple residents at a time and fought with 3 of the arresting officers. The doctor who examined his body said he died from an overdose of LSD.^[29] This conclusion has been questioned by those who claim that LSD overdoses are rare.^[30]

All of these incidents have led to renewed calls for a civilian police review commission by the Coalition for Police Review, an alliance including the Redwood Chapter of the ACLU, the county Human Rights Commission, the Civil Liberties Monitoring Project and some local Green Party organizations. Currently the county district attorney overviews the reports of officer related shootings to ascertain whether or not criminal charges should be filed, and to date there has been no decision by him of the first shooting which occurred in April 2006.

[edit] State and Federal government

In the state legislature Eureka is located in the 2nd Senate District, represented by Democrat Pat Wiggins, and in the 1st Assembly District, represented by Democrat Patty Berg. Federally, Eureka is located in California's 1st congressional district.

[edit] Infrastructure

[edit] Transportation

Land

U.S. Route 101 extends north and south through the city. The route becomes city streets and speed on the route is reduced to stop and go traffic. Light signals control traffic flow through the city. The downtown is considered a fairly walkable community. State Route 299 (formerly U.S. Route 299) connects to U.S. Route 101 at the northern end of the nearby city of Arcata. Route 299 begins at that point and extends easterly to serve as the major traffic artery to the east for the community of Eureka.

When planning a trip by road, it's best to check road conditions, as snow and mudslides occasionally cause road closures in the winter and rainy seasons, respectively.

Air

Eureka's full service airport is the Arcata-Eureka Airport, located 15 miles (24 km) north in McKinleyville. Murray Field, a general aviation airport for private and charter air service, is located within the northern city limit of Eureka adjacent Humboldt Bay. Ten miles southeast of Eureka, Kneeland Airport, also a general aviation airport at 2,737 ft (834.2 m) elevation, provides an option for pilots choosing to avoid the prevalent marine layer at airports closer to sea level.

Water

The Humboldt Bay Harbor Recreation & Conservation District manages the resources of Humboldt Bay and its environs, including the deep water port. The port is located directly west of the city and is serviced across the bay in the community of Samoa. In addition to two deep water channel docks for large ships, several modern small craft marinas are available for private use, with a total capacity of more than 400 boats.

Public

Public bus transportation services within Eureka are provided by the Eureka Transit Service. The Redwood Transit System provides bus transportation through Eureka and connects to major towns and places outside the city, including educational institutions. Dial-A-Ride service is available through an application process.

Amtrak provides Thruway Bus service to Eureka at its unstaffed bus stop. The bus service connects passengers from the northernmost coastal train station in Martinez, California and continues to southern Oregon.

[edit] Utilities

Electricity and natural gas

Eureka residents are served by Pacific Gas and Electric Company. Some reserves of natural gas are located south of the city. These and other fuels help power the PG&E Humboldt Bay Power Plant. The plant, a vital part of the electrical grid in California, is scheduled to be replaced on site by new power units which will exceed the current production of 130 MW.^[31]

Water

The City of Eureka is the largest of the local water districts supplied by the Humboldt Bay Municipal Water District. The entire region is one of the few places in California that has historically enjoyed a significant surplus of water despite climate change. The reduction in major forest products manufacturing in recent decades has left the area with a 45 MGD surplus of industrial water.^[32]

[edit] Healthcare

Eureka is the regional center for healthcare. The city is served by St. Joseph Hospital, which is the largest in the region. The hospital is operated by the Sisters of Saint Joseph of Orange and it was the first hospital opened by the order in 1920. The facility is entering a second phase of major expansion in 2008. In addition there are rehabilitation hospitals, assisted living facilities, skilled nursing facilities, and surgery centers in Eureka. Most of the doctors for the many medical specialties available on the far North Coast are located in or near Eureka, which also has the only oncology program and dialysis clinic in the region.

[edit] Education

Institutions of higher learning include the College of the Redwoods located on the south edge of the Greater Eureka Area and Humboldt State University, located just eight miles (13 km) north in Arcata. College of the Redwoods has recently developed a downtown satellite campus to augment offerings of the 270-acre (1.1 km²) campus located south of the city. Meanwhile, in 2005 Humboldt State University made public its plans to bring to the campus to Eureka. The first of these plans has been realized with the spring 2007 opening of the HSU Humboldt Bay Aquatic Center, a $4.5 million aquatic facility on Humboldt Bay in Old Town Eureka. Other plans include a new HSU Bay and Estuarine Studies Center, to be placed on the bay. This new facility will be closer to the Coral Sea (now docked at Woodley Island, Eureka), HSU's floating classroom. The new facility would be considerably larger than other existing facilities in Trinidad, twenty miles (32 km) north.^[33]

Eureka City Schools [1]administers the public schools of the city. These include Alice Birney Elementary, Grant Elementary, Lafayette Elementary, Lincoln Elementary, Washington Elementary, Winship and Zane Middle Schools, Eureka High School, Humboldt Bay High School, Zoe Barnum High School, the Eureka Adult School and Winzler Children's Center.^[34]

The Humboldt County Office of Education administers the Glen Paul Center in Eureka, which specializes in the educational needs of the developmentally disabled.

[edit] Arts and culture

Eureka is one of California's historic landmarks. The California State Historical marker, #477, designating Eureka, is located in Old Town, one of the nations best preserved, original Victorian era commercial districts. The city was voted as the #1 best small art town in John Villani's book "The 100 Best Small Art Towns In America."^[35] Eureka boasts the regions largest monthly cultural and arts event, "Arts' Alive!" On the first Saturday of each month more than 80 Eureka business and local galleries open their doors to the public. Often local cuisine and beverages accompany live performances by acclaimed regional bands and other types of performance art.

Theater offerings include year round productions from several various theater groups including the North Coast Repertory Theater and the Eureka Theater. Various events occur throughout the year at the Redwood Acres Fairgrounds. Art organizations include the Humboldt State University First Street Gallery, Humboldt Arts Council and Morris Graves Museum of Art, Redwood Art Association, The Ink People and the Eureka Art and Culture Commission. As a major regional center, the city offers many lodgings, restaurants, and shopping areas, including dozens of specialty shops in its historic 19th Century Old Town commercial district and the only large mall in the region.

[edit] Annual cultural events

Redwood Coast Jazz Festival - March
Rhododendron Festival - April
Kinetic sculpture race - May
Redwood Acres Fair and Rodeo - June
Fourth of July Celebration - July
College of the Redwoods Wood Fair - July
Blues by the Bay - August
Organic Planet Festival - August
Truckers Parade - December

[edit] Museums

Museums include the Clarke Historical Museum, the Humboldt Bay Maritime Museum in nearby Samoa (which operates the Madaket, an historic excursion boat operating on the bay), the Morris Graves Museum of Art, the Discovery Museum for Children, and the Blue Ox Mill. A collection of logging equipment spanning 150 years and other cultural assets abound in and around museums at Fort Humboldt State Historic Park.

[edit] Architecture

Milton Carson Home (aka the "Pink Lady"), a Queen Anne style Victorian, Eureka, California

Due to northern isolation and unfavorable economic conditions in the latter part of the twentieth century, much of the post-war redevelopment and urban renewal that other cities experienced bypassed Eureka. As a result, Eureka is resplendent with examples of 19th and early 20th century architecture and historic districts. David Gebhard, Professor of architectural history of Santa Barbara has remarked that Eureka is a west coast Williamsburg, Virginia, preserving extensive Victorian homes and public buildings, including many ornate examples of Colonial Revival, Eastlake, Greek Revival, Italianate, Queen Anne, and Stick styles of Victorian architecture. All of these styles are present in the most famous and possibly most ornate of Victorian homes, The Carson Mansion (pictured above).

Approximately 16% of the city contains important historical structures. 13 distinct districts have been identified which meet the criteria for the National Register of Historic Places. Among them are the 2nd Street District (10 buildings), 15th Street district (13 buildings) and the O Street district (43 buildings). Hillsdale Street, a popular and well-preserved district, contains 17 buildings of historic interest. In all, some 1,500 buildings have been recognized as qualifying for the National Register. The Eureka Heritage Society, a local architectural preservation group founded in 1973, has been instrumental in protecting and preserving many of Eureka’s fine Victorians.

[edit] Parks and Recreation

Sequoia Park Zoo, situated on more than 50 acres of mature second-growth Redwood forest, includes Eureka's largest public playground and a duck pond in addition to meticulously kept gardens and examples of the area's many varieties of rhododendron bushes. Other parks in or near Eureka include the Humboldt Botanical Garden (slated to open in 2008) and the Humboldt Bay National Wildlife Refuge. There is a modern boardwalk along the city's waterfront and two large marinas capable of mooring over 400 small craft.

[edit] Media

Though Eureka has been the base for two major daily newspapers at different times in its 150 years, only the Times-Standard, owned by the Colorado-based Media News Group (founded by Dean Singleton), continues to print nearly 20,000 papers a day.^[36] The Eureka Reporter, which was a daily since 2006, began publishing only five days a week as of December 31, 2007. Both newspapers contain original local news and syndicated content on state, national and international news.

Media News Group also owns a weekly classified advertiser, the Tri-City Weekly. Nearby publications which cover events in Eureka include a free Arcata-based weekly "of politics, people and art," The North Coast Journal, and Humboldt State University's student newspaper,The Lumberjack, as well as the unique weekly The Arcata Eye. Eureka is also home to several alternative weekly publications, including the Emerald Coast Herald, a Christian publication produced by a consortium of local churches.

All of Humboldt County's television stations (KIEM, KVIQ, KAEF, KBVU, KEET) are based in the City of Eureka, as are many of the commercial radio stations in Humboldt County: (KFMI, KRED,KSLG, KXGO, and KATA). Eureka also hosts KMUE, the local repeater for Redway-based community radio station KMUD, and on August 26, 2006 the Blue Ox Millworks and School of the Traditional Arts launched KKDS, a low power FM station focused on youth and community issues. KHSU, a local public radio station, is broadcast from Humboldt State University in Arcata.

[edit] Notable natives and residents

Rob Arkley - Local gazillionaire.
Sara Bareilles, an acclaimed singer-songwriter, pianist and recording artist, was raised in Eureka and attended Eureka Senior High School, graduating in 1998.
Trevor Dunn from Mr. Bungle, Fantomas and Secret Chiefs 3 was born and raised in Eureka.
Brendan Fraser, actor in movies such as Bedazzled, The Mummy, Blast from the Past
Andrew Goff, nationally renowned freelance person.
Chad Parsons, bugle instrumentalist in the Old Guard Fife and Drum Corps, the official musical escort to the President of the United States, was raised in Eureka and attended Eureka Senior High School, graduating in 1998.
Mike Patton, best known as the lead singer of Faith No More, was born and raised in Eureka.
Trey Spruance, experimental music artist. Best known for his work with Mr. Bungle and Secret Chiefs 3.
Jamila Tharp, nationally renowned marriage equality advocate.

[edit] Sister cities

Kamisu, Japan
Nelson, New Zealand

[edit] See also

[edit] Notes

^ Google Books, Geographic Society of the Pacific, "The Discovery of Humboldt Bay, California", p. 4-15. Retrieved online December 4, 2007
^ The Humboldt Bay Region 1850-1875, p. 57
^ The Humboldt Bay Region 1850-1875
^ Eureka: An Architectural View, p. 9
^ The Humboldt Bay Region 1850-1875
^ Travel: Northern exposure - OCRegister.com
^ Humboldt Bay Watershed Symposium: Current Uses of Humboldt Bay. Retrieved November 22, 2006 from http://ucce.ucdavis.edu/files/filelibrary/1068/10855.pdf
^ Easthouse, K. (2003, February 27). The Chinese Expulsion. Retrieved November 26, 2006 from http://www.northcoastjournal.com/022703/cover0227.html
^ Eureka:An Architectural View, p.71
^ http://ggweather.com; http://wrcc.dri.edu
^ Weatherbase: Historical Weather for Eureka, California, United States of America (English). Retrieved on November 25, 2006.
^ Retrieved July 3, 2007 from http://www.census.gov/population/www/estimates/aboutmetro.html
^ http://www.eurekawebs.com/CityHall/cityplan.cfm?plan=5_1 | City Plan SECTION 5 POPULATION AND ECONOMIC GROWTH]
^ Eureka California Community Profile. Retrieved November 22, 2006 from http://www.nwfsc.noaa.gov/research/divisions/sd/communityprofiles/California/Eureka_CA.pdf
^ Table DP-3. Profile of Selected Economic Statistics: 2000. Geographic Area: Eureka CA. Retrieved on November 22, 2006 from http://censtats.census.gov/data/CA/1600623042.pdf
^ Table DP-1. Profile of Selected Demographic Statistics: 2000. Geographic Area: Eureka CA. Retrieved on November 22, 2006 from http://censtats.census.gov/data/CA/1600623042.pdf
^ City Asunder:The Face of Eureka. Retrieved November 22, 2006 from http://www.northcoastjournal.com/102606/cover1026.html
^ City of Eureka: Mayor and City Council. Retrieved November 22, 2006 from http://www.ci.eureka.ca.gov/council/default.asp.
^ Jury makes three recommendations after inquest - Times-Standard Online
^ North Coast Journal September 21, 2006 : ON THE COVER : Cause of Death
^ Moore's son files claim against city - Times-Standard Online
^ Officers' arraignment begins | The Eureka Reporter
^ North Coast Journal November 9, 2006 : ON THE COVER : The Broken Boy
^ Eureka teen shot multiple times, dies | The Eureka Reporter
^ New Page 0
^ Standoff ends in shooting - Times-Standard Online
^ Police say fugitive was suicidal | The Eureka Reporter
^ Chief: Eureka becoming a 'hellhole' - Times-Standard Online
^ North Coast Journal August 30, 2007 : IN THE NEWS : Does LSD Kill? and Big in Redway
^ Erowid LSD Vault : Dosage
^ Post Carbon Institute, Post Carbon Cities: Helping local governments understand and respond to the challenges of peak oil and global warming. Url retrieved February 26, 2008.
^ Humboldt Bay Municipal Water District, Services Url retrieved February 26, 2008.
^ Northcoast Journal, [http://www.northcoastjournal.com/042105/cover0421.html Out with the Tide, URL retrieved October 16, 2007
^ Welcome to Eureka City Schools: The Educational Leader on the North Coast. Retrieved November 22, 2006 from http://www.eurekacityschools.org/
^ The 100 Best Small Art Towns in America, by John Villani; ISBN 1-56261-405-3
^ The Eureka Reporter

[edit] References

The 100 Best Small Art Towns in America, by John Villani; ISBN 1-56261-405-3
California Place Names: The Origin and Etymology of Current Geographical Names, by Erwin G. Gudde; ISBN 0520015746
Eureka: An Architectural View, by The Eureka Heritage Society, Inc; ISBN 0-9615004-0-9
The Humboldt Bay Region 1850-1875, by Owen C. Coy (Reprinted by the Humboldt County Historical Society; ISBN B0006Y3SOU

[edit] Further reading

History

Two People One Place. Ray Rahpael and Freeman House. Published by the Humboldt County Historical Society. 2007

[edit] External links

General guides

Arts & music

History & historical museums

Media

Municipal services and schools

Tourism

Other

Maps

Eureka, California is at coordinates 40°47′24″N 124°09′46″W / 40.790022, -124.162752 (Eureka, California)Coordinates: 40°47′24″N 124°09′46″W / 40.790022, -124.162752 (Eureka, California)

v • d • e Eureka, California and vicinity

Historic Landmarks	Carson Mansion · Eureka Inn · Humboldt Bay Lifeboat Station · Madaket · Old Town · Samoa Cookhouse

Museums	Blue Ox Millworks and Historic Park · Clarke Historical Museum · Discovery Museum · Fort Humboldt State Historic Park · Humboldt Bay Maritime Museum · Morris Graves Museum of Art

Parks and Preserves	Eureka Marsh · Headwaters Forest Reserve · Humboldt Bay National Wildlife Refuge Complex · Humboldt Botanical Garden · Samoa Dunes Recreation Area · Sequoia Park Zoo

Humboldt Bay Marinas	Small Boat Basin · Woodley Island Marina

Shopping Areas	Bayshore Mall · Downtown · Henderson Center · Old Town Shops

Eureka Neighborhoods and Nearby CDPs	Bayview · Cutten · Elk River · Freshwater · Fields Landing · Humboldt Hill · Indianola · King Salmon · Lumbar Hills · Myrtletown · Pine Hills · Ridgewood Heights/Westgate · Rosewood

v • d • e Municipalities and communities of Humboldt County, California

County seat: Eureka

Cities	Arcata \| Blue Lake \| Eureka \| Ferndale \| Fortuna \| Rio Dell \| Trinidad

CDPs	Bayview \| Cutten \| Humboldt Hill \| Hydesville \| McKinleyville \| Myrtletown \| Pine Hills \| Redway \| Westhaven-Moonstone \| Willow Creek

Unincorporated communities	Alderpoint \| Alton \| Bridgeville \| Carlotta \| Fernbridge \| Fieldbrook \| Garberville \| Honeydew \| Hoopa \| Loleta \| Miranda \| Myers Flat \| Orleans \| Pepperwood \| Petrolia \| Phillipsville \| Redcrest \| Samoa \| Scotia \| Shelter Cove \| Weott \| Whitethorn