Foster City Historical Society

03/12/2026

Our president Evan Adams had the pleasure to be a judge at the Lion's Club Student speaking contest. Thanks to Burlingame Lion Erik Winkler and FC Lion Wing Yu for a well run event. Evan was joined with fellow judges Shankar Kenkre (FC Planning Commission) and Derrick Chua (FC Tennis Club) on the panel. Best of luck as competitors move on to the regional level.

03/11/2026

All I Want for Christmas Is You!!! Thanks Foster City!

07/16/2025

Wayne McFadden visits with Foster City Historical Society

https://fostercitylife.org/wayne-mcfadden-visits-with-foster-city-historical-society/

06/12/2025

Check out this vintage public relations film from 1957 that celebrates the opening of the Hillsdale Shopping Center in San Mateo, California! 🎉

"Shopping Can Be Fun: A New Concept in Merchandising" is not just a historical piece, but a window into the excitement surrounding the rise of suburban shopping malls.

Here's a glimpse of what you'll see:

The modern architecture and design of the center 0:44
The diverse range of stores, including a unique Farmers Market 2:37
Special events like a Blossom Festival 4:28 and an auto show 5:41
Entertainment for kids, including a giant toy display 14:56
And much more!

While it's a product of its time, the film offers a fascinating look at how shopping culture evolved and how it was presented to the public.

Enjoy the trip back in time! #1957

1957 public domain PR short, "Shopping Can Be Fun: A New Concept in Merchandising", that chronicles the Hillsdale Shopping Center in San Mateo, California.Vi...

05/03/2025

For decades, Pacific Gas & Electric (PG&E) has been the sole provider of electricity to Foster City. However, a look back at our city's history reveals a period of significant consideration, led by forward-thinking individuals, regarding the feasibility of establishing an independent, municipally-owned electric distribution system. As Foster City residents today navigate the complexities and often unpredictable nature of PG&E rates, it's valuable to reflect on this past initiative and understand the rationale behind the potential for energy independence....

For decades, Pacific Gas & Electric (PG&E) has been the sole provider of electricity to Foster City. However, a look back at our city’s history reveals a period of significant conside…

04/17/2025

The cupola from our former City Hall is being restored thanks to efforts from the Burlingame Parks Forever Foundation, Burlingame Historical Society and the City of Burlingame. Stop by and check out its progress (behind the Apple Store).

04/13/2025

May 8, 1971 – Central Park, Foster City Under sunny skies and a spirit of unity, the city of Foster City celebrated its official incorporation on May 8, 1971, with a joyous and historic ceremony held at Central Park (now Leo J. Ryan Park). The festivities began promptly at 11:00 a.m. and featured a dignified procession of city leaders, Boy Scouts, and members of the U.S....

May 8, 1971 – Central Park, Foster City Under sunny skies and a spirit of unity, the city of Foster City celebrated its official incorporation on May 8, 1971, with a joyous and historic ceremony he…

01/20/2025

Foster City Progress: April 16, 1997. The dedication ceremony for the new Foster City County Library will take place on Saturday, April 19, at 11 a.m. in the parking lot of the facility at the intersection of Shell and Hillsdale boulevards. The celebration is open to the public. The short Saturday opening program will include performances by the Foster City Philharmonic/Jazz Band, the Foster City Chorale, soloist Marie Davis, and a presentation of a $250,000 check from the Friends of the Foster City Library to the county librarian....

Foster City Progress: April 16, 1997. The dedication ceremony for the new Foster City County Library will take place on Saturday, April 19, at 11 a.m. in the parking lot of the facility at the inte…

10/30/2024

Once there was a plan for a Foster City Marina. This page is from chapter 5 of the current Foster city Parks and open space section of the general plan.https://www.fostercity.org/sites/default/files/fileattachments/community_development/page/3441/gp-chapter-5-parks-and-open-space-element.pdf

09/07/2024

Please join us for a fascinating tour of San Mateo's Historic Downtown on Sunday 9/22/24 -- space is limited and slots are filling up fast!!! https://www.smheritage.org/events2