Millsmont, Oakland, California

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The Millsmont neighborhood of Oakland, California encompasses the area of East Oakland to the south and east of Mills College. Seminary Avenue is considered the northern border, and Edwards Avenue (or perhaps a bit farther south) the southern; MacArthur Boulevard to the west, and Interstate 580 to the east.

Originally a bedroom, almost resort community around the turn of the century, Millsmont (especially between Seminary and Edwards and Hillmont and Mountain Boulevard) was arranged as a place to get away from the hustle and bustle of San Francisco. Being heavily wooded, it was an ideal place to buy land to which to escape on the weekends. Quarter-acre plots were available, including building plans and materials, for $500. Four standard plans were used to build quaint, one-bedroom dwellings. An original, unaltered house may be seen on the NE corner of Edgemoor and Sunnymere.

After the earthquake of 1906, many individuals who had been left homeless and penniless settled in their small properties in the Millsmont neighborhood. Additions were built, and the landscape gradually changed.

Today, Millsmont is an eclectic neighborhood, incorporating a mix of first-time homeowners; older, established residents (significant number of families owning their homes over 40 years); lesbians (due to the proximity to Mills College, an all-female liberal arts college); and many other diverse people.