Museum, council celebrate 50 years

The city of Clayton just turned the Big 5-0.

As many residents know, the town of Clayton was founded by Joel Clayton in 1857 but it took 107 years to become an incorporated city. In 1964, a dedicated group of founding mothers and fathers vigorously resisted a potential take-over by Concord, working to ensure Clayton’s independence and self-direction.

Fifty years ago, on March 3, 1964, in a record turnout, 91 percent of the town’s 364 registered voters cast their ballots for independence. The measure passed 251 to 61 and Clayton became Contra Costa County’s 13th city. The first city council meeting was held on March 18 of that year.

To commemorate the city’s 50th anniversary, the Clayton Historical Society will open a special new exhibit at the Clayton Museum at 4:30 p.m. next Tuesday, March 18.

At 7 p.m., the “liberty” bell will ring once more when the Clayton City Council meets in the historic Endeavor Hall to commemorate that first city council meeting. The public is invited to share in the celebration. Rumor has it, there will be birthday cake.