Commission adopts Russian American Historic Context Statement; staff to pursue translation and outreach

The Historic Preservation Commission adopted the Russian American Historic Context Statement (RAHCS) on Oct. 15 after a presentation by Dr. Nina Bogdan and staff from the Planning Department.

Dr. Bogdan, the document’s author, summarized research into the Russian American community’s history in San Francisco, including settlement patterns across the Fillmore, Potrero Hill and other neighborhoods, religious and cultural diversity among Russian emigrés, and social and economic conditions during the interwar period. She emphasized the importance of documenting and recognizing communities that have been displaced or diminished by redevelopment.

Planning staff described public outreach that took place since the statement’s July informational presentation. Staff also noted updates to the document in response to Commissioner feedback, including a map of Russian American sites and recommendations to research other Slavic communities (Ukraine, Serbia, Poland). Staff recommended short-term priorities including translating the statement into Russian and making materials available at branch libraries; longer-term priorities include partnerships with youth-led organizations and potential landmark nominations if community interest supports them.

Commissioners praised the document and its community partnerships. After a motion and second, the commission voted unanimously, 7–0, to adopt the Russian American Historic Context Statement. Staff said they would continue community outreach and consider further research and possible landmark nominations.