signs: Cadillac building

Cadillac

I've been hoping they'd repair this sign so I could get a shot of it in operation, but given the state of the automobile industry that hasn't seemed likely for a while. Numerous auto dealers have moved from Auto Row or closed completely over the years, but this classic building has been occupied for some time. Today I had a checkup at the dentist nearby, and was a bit surprised to see the building getting a paint job (good) but saddened to see the sign completely gone. All the lights were on, but nobody was home to ask what's become of the sign or the future plans are. I'd love to preserve at least part of it. On the other hand, K would probably kill me if I came home with a 4-foot tall metal and neon letter.

no sign

signs: Used Cars

Used Cars

On Broadway in the middle of the remains of Auto Row is this used cars sign. I took this picture some time back, but just went past it again today on my way back from the Habitat for Humanity office, reminding me I ought to post it.

history: Mt. View Cemetery and Auto Row

History. Where would we be without it? :-)

There's a nice post on Today in Montclair about the Mountain View Cemetery. Wandering around a place full of dead people may not be your idea of fun, but it is beautiful, and as the post informs us, there are a lot of prominent people from Oakland's past buried there.

Over at one of my favorite Oakland blogs, City Homestead, there's a nice post on the history of Auto Row. Interesting stuff, and good things to know as people discuss the future of Auto Row.