Oakland Estuary

Although the estuary was used by Native American tribes inhabiting the local area since about 4000 BC, the earliest recorded history of the Oakland Estuary dates primarily from events extending back to the 19th century, as detailed in a research study conducted by Earth Metrics for the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (Earth Metrics, 1990)(Shreffler, 1994).

The Oakland Estuary and tributary stream channels were used for shipping transport regularly by the 1850s; early maritime commerce featured movement of lumber and cattle hides.

In 1853 the first dredging project of this estuary was initiated,[1] to enable ferry service to San Francisco.

By the late 19th century further landside development occurred featuring wharf expansions, railroad service and shipbuilding.

Jack London Square is a publicly accessible mixed-use waterfront and marina area where the museum ship, USS Potomac (AG-25), is docked.

A view over the estuary from above Coast Guard Island . Alameda is on the left, with Oakland on the right and San Francisco Bay in the distance.
High Street Bridge