Goosetown - San Jose, CA - Signs of History on Waymarking.com

"SAN JOSE'S GOOSETOWN - a colorful, Italian immigrant community — often smelled of fresh baked, round breads from its many outdoor ovens. Neighbors stored wine, flour and smoked meats in their basements while they pressed grapes, talked with friends and made their own tomato paste in their backyards. A water wagon, chased by children on hot summer days; kept the dust down on the unpaved streets. From 1890 until World War ll, the neighborhood flourished -loosely enclosed by the Guadalupe River, Grant, First and Alma Streets. The fruit-growing climate of San lose, similar to Naples, reminded Italian families of their sunny homeland. They worked hard in local orchards and fruit factories, where packing a 40-pound box of prunes earned you a nickel. A quick hand could pack zo boxes a day. The Goosetown grocery allowed neighbors to charge purchases throughout the winter without interest. Bills would be quickly paid come the first of the fruit harvest."

Group that erected the marker: City of San Jose Address of where the marker is located. Approximate if necessary: Guadalupe River Trail San Jose, CA USA URL of a web site with more information about the history mentioned on the sign: Not listed

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