6 places to check out on West Second Street in Antioch
A train clangs as it skirts the San Joaquin River in Rivertown, a historic district dating to the Gold Rush era.
Farms and dairies once thrived here; then the discovery of coal in the late 1850s brought with it a proliferation of mines, workers from around the world and five coal mining towns in the Black Diamond area.
[...] the mines produced almost 4 million tons of coal.
Sabrina and Robert Cunningham revived this lunch spot earlier this year after it closed following nearly three decades as a local favorite.
Sit at a table by the window, view historic photographs and enjoy personable service.
602 W. Second St.: A 1928 movie theater, the El Campanil originally featured a single screen, 1,100 seats and a vaudeville stage.
In recent years, the nonprofit El Campanil Theatre Preservation Foundation purchased and transformed it into a community performing arts venue.
Bernie Cabrara’s warm, friendly nature makes you feel like an old friend when visiting her quilt and fabric shop, where traditional and modern quilts hang on the walls.
With her passion and extensive knowledge of the craft, she offers classes for newbies to advanced quilters.
For the large mural illustrating some of Antioch’s history, Charlotte Downs-Siska and her daughter Kelly Fowler painted images of notable figures, a coal miner, train and riverfront scenes depicting the city’s history. http://bit.ly/1vOWRFV.
Opened four months ago, this collectibles, vintage and antiques shop makes for a delightful place to browse and return to again and again, since the merchandise changes continually.
Recent finds included a group of ceramic pink elephants and a solid wood sideboard.
Dotted with benches, trees and a grassy area, this plaza and promenade offers views of the San Joaquin River, waterfowl, a fishing pier and palm trees.
In the summer, free concerts take place here and in September, the Delta Blues Festival.
Free public parking in lots including one on West Second and I streets.
Festivities include a parade, city tree lighting, photos with Santa Claus and a boat parade on the San Joaquin River. www.celebrateantioch.org/calendar.