Dimond history

We originally dated this photo as 1890, but we have learned that construction of the Altenheim was started in 1893. This photo was taken between 1894 and 1908 when the original building was destroyed by fire.

The photographer was standing on "Prospect Hill," which is now the intersection of Lincoln Avenue and MacArthur Boulevard.

These photos are from the Oakland Library's History Room collection.

The following timeline is from the Altenheim's 100th anniversary program. A copy is in Dimond library's neighborhood archive.
• December 1886  Creation of the Altenheim idea
• March 31, 1890  Incorporation of the Altenheim society. 453 members
• January 2, 1891  Purchase of the original 5 acres of land for $6000.00, later another 2.5 acres was purchased for $15,0000.
• May 17, 1891   First Altenheim Spring Festival was held on the new property.
• September 20-24, 1892  First Bazaar was held, collecting $37,000.00 for the building fund.
• February 15, 1893  Property was prepared for building.
• August 20, 1893  First cornerstone was laid
• May 20, 1894  Opening ceremonies -- building finished but not yet furnished.
• September 15, 1894  Dedication of the Altenheim. Mrs. Eva Behnken, First Matron of the Altenheim and the first two residents moved in. Lifecare admission fee was $2000.00
• July 1908  The original Altenheim building burned down, but no one was hurt. All residents were housed in the German community until the home was rebuilt. Reconstruction was completed and the home reoccupied in less than a year.

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