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Foster City Historical Society

History EN ↓ 5 episodes

Foster City wasn’t just built; it was engineered with a vision. But behind the blue lagoons and planned neighborhoods lie stories of risk-takers, community pioneers, and the evolution of a modern utopia. The Foster City Historical Society Podcast dives deep into the archives to bring our local heritage to life. From the ambitious dreams of T. Jack Foster to the personal memories of the families who first called these reclaimed lands home, we bridge the gap between our city’s unique origin story and its vibrant tomorrow. Whether you're a lifelong resident or a curious newcomer, join us as we ex...

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Episodes

The Myth of Memory: The George Franklin Trial 24.05.2026 19:56

BURIED follows the gripping story of Eileen Franklin who, while playing with her young daughter, suddenly had a memory of witnessing the rape and murder of her childhood best friend, 8-year-old Susan Nason, which led to a re-opening of a case that had gone unsolved for nearly 20 years. And in a shocking twist, when Eileen came forward with her memory, she told the police that she remembered the mu...

Homeless Mayor: Year Without Home Gives Official a New Perspective 15.02.2026 14:20

These records from the Foster City Historical Society detail the remarkable life of John Oliver , a local politician who maintained his seat on the City Council while experiencing homelessness . Following a series of personal and financial crises, Oliver lived in a camper truck for over a year, an experience that profoundly shaped his political advocacy for affordable housing. Despite his lack of...

New Type Fire Hydrant featuring Susan Arnell, the reigning Miss Foster City 15.02.2026 11:01

This archival record from the Foster City Historical Society highlights a unique promotional campaign from 1964 featuring Susan Arnell , the reigning Miss Foster City . In a series of vintage photographs and articles, Arnell is seen modeling a fire helmet while perched on a modernized fire hydrant to showcase the city's new infrastructure. The campaign cleverly marketed these innovative utilities...

Foster City’s Electric Future: Echoes of Independence in the Face of PG&E Rates 15.02.2026 19:02

In the 1970s, Foster City leaders conducted rigorous research into establishing a municipally-owned electric system to replace their reliance on PG&E. These historical feasibility studies suggested that energy independence would have generated millions in profit for the city’s general fund while utilizing a unique, self-contained infrastructure already funded by local developers. By revisiting...

Hillbarn Theatre: A Foster City Historical Icon Celebrates its 85th Anniversary! 15.02.2026 14:12

This episode chronicles the 85-year evolution of the Hillbarn Theatre , tracing its origins from a literal barn in 1936 to its current status as a cultural landmark in Foster City . Through an interview with Executive Artistic Director Stephen Muterspaugh, the text details the venue's geographic journey across various Bay Area locations before finding a permanent home through the generosity of the...