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Richmond, California

Richmond, nestled on the beautiful San Francisco Bay, is a city with a powerful spirit and an incredible story. We proudly served as the epicenter of the WWII Home Front, where the legendary Rosie the Riveter symbol was born as women and men from all backgrounds flocked here to build the ships that won the war. This legacy of resilience and innovation continues to shape our vibrant community today.

Founded 1905 | Population 107,571 | Peak 107,571 (2024) | County Contra Costa County

Top Events in Richmond, California

1905 City Incorporated: Richmond officially became an incorporated city.

1911 Standard Oil Refinery Opens: Major industrial development attracting population and jobs.

1942 Kaiser Shipyards Boom: Began rapid shipbuilding for WWII, drastically increasing population.

1964 Richmond-San Rafael Bridge: Completion of vital transportation link across San Francisco Bay.

2000 Rosie the Riveter NHP: National Historical Park dedicated to WWII Home Front established.

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Latest News in Richmond

Mar 9, 2026

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Mar 6, 2026

Washington Passes Bill for Noncitizens in Law Enforcement

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Mar 5, 2026

Oregon Democrats Block ICE Notification for Felony Convicts

Oregon Democratic senators have unanimously blocked a bill that would have mandated state authorities to notify U.S. Immigration a…

Historical Timeline of Richmond

1905 Government

City Incorporated

1905 Transport

Santa Fe Railroad Terminal

1911 Economy

Standard Oil Refinery

1942 Economy

Kaiser Shipyards Open

1964 Transport

Richmond-San Rafael Bridge

1978 Environment

Point Pinole Regional Shoreline

2000 Culture

Rosie the Riveter NHP

2010 Environment

Solar One Project

Did You Know? — Richmond

Richmond was home to four Kaiser Shipyards during WWII, which collectively built 747 ships in just over four years, including many Liberty and Victory ships.

It is the only city in the United States with a national park dedicated to the WWII home front, the Rosie the Riveter/WWII Home Front National Historical Park.

During World War II, Richmond's population exploded from around 23,000 to over 100,000, becoming a diverse melting pot as people from across the country moved here for war jobs.

Richmond boasts over 32 miles of shoreline along San Francisco Bay and its estuaries, more than any other city in the East Bay.

The city is home to the largest municipal solar installation in the Bay Area, Richmond's Solar One, demonstrating its commitment to renewable energy.

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