Oral history is one of the ways we keep the spirit of Russian Hill alive. Instead of relying only on formal records, we listen to the memories and stories of neighbors who’ve called this hill home for many years. While the voices of the very first readers have been lost, we carry their tradition forward by recording and sharing interviews with longtime residents. These conversations let us pass along the everyday experiences, colorful anecdotes, and personal perspectives that make our neighborhood’s history feel alive and close to home.

WHY DO WE NEED ORAL HISTORIES OF RUSSIAN HILL?

Because if stories aren’t shared, they’re lost, and with them go the small details that give a community its soul. History isn’t just about famous names or landmark buildings; it’s about the people who shop at the corner market, chat with their neighbors on the sidewalk, and watch the neighborhood change year after year. These everyday voices give us a sense of belonging, of roots, and of how Russian Hill has grown and shifted over time.

Libraries are full of San Francisco’s citywide history, but neighborhood stories are often missing — even though this is where life truly unfolds. Capturing these local memories helps us understand our past, stay connected in the present, and create a record future generations can lean on. Plus, the process itself is joyful: oral history invites conversation, sparks connection, and strengthens the fabric of our community.