Noe Valley Voice June 1997
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Celebrate Noe Valley History Day June 8

By Anne Gates

The annual Noe Valley History Day is Sunday, June 8, so don't forget to pack up your memories and toddle on over to the celebration from 2 to 5 p.m. at the Noe Valley - Sally Brunn Library at 451 Jersey St. (near Castro).

This year's theme is 24th Street, and a photo exhibit at the library will document the evolution of Noe Valley's liveliest commercial strip.

Two musical performances will also spice up the party. The Singing Rainbow, a children's singing group, will give a concert at 2:30. Librarian Roberta Greifer says, "They're very popular!"

"They've got a lot of energy," agrees History Day organizer Paul Kantus, who heads up one of Noe Valley's oldest residents' groups, the East & West of Castro Street Improvement Club.

At 3:30, folksinger Bruce Sherman will sing sea chanteys and folk songs. Sherman is another local favorite who strummed and played at last year's History Day.

In addition, the library will show archival films, including a documentary about the recollections of Tillie Smith, a lifelong Noe Valley resident who died several years ago. Smith was 17 years old in 1906 and then living on Jersey Street.

"Tillie has marvelous memories of 24th Street shops and the neighborhood," says Kantus. He will also screen a film about the Market Street Railway, which ran the city's streetcars and cable cars before Muni came along.

Last year's History Day covered "The Decades," from 1910 to 1960. In the past, the spotlight has also been on the Noe Valley of the '60s, the neighborhood's schools, and the three movie palaces that once presided over 24th Street.

Kantus says he's open to suggestions for future History Day themes. He is also seeking historical photos and artifacts. If you would like to loan your treasures, please label them with your name, address, and phone number, and drop them off at the library by Tuesday, June 3. Or call Paul Kantus at 647-3753.

Librarian Greifer notes that regular library services will not be available the day of the party, June 8. However, refreshments will be served, and the event is free.