Community leaders, historians and business figures will gather Monday, April 20, in Historic Folsom for the official kickoff of the Leidesdorff Plaza Diamond Jubilee, launching a broader season of events recognizing the legacy of early California pioneer William Alexander Leidesdorff Jr.
The event begins at 11:30 a.m. at the Historic Folsom Light Rail Station at Sutter Street and Reading Street, where attendees will take part in a walking tour and opening program designed to highlight the historical significance of the site and its connection to early development in the region.
The kickoff will include a preview of upcoming commemorative events, along with a featured living history performance by Dr. James Holmes Armstead, who is known for his portrayal of Leidesdorff. Through the performance, Armstead brings to life the diplomat, entrepreneur and early landowner whose influence shaped the 1844 Rancho Rio de los Americanos and contributed to the agricultural and commercial foundations of the region, as well as early ties to pre-Gold Rush San Francisco.
Organizers say the event also pays tribute to past community leaders and advocates who helped preserve the legacy of Leidesdorff Plaza. Among those recognized are Folsom Mayor Jack Kipp and early supporters of the Negro Museum and Library Association of Sacramento, Inc., including Joe Larson, Dr. William Lee and attorney Douglass Greer, whose legal efforts contributed to the continued protection of the historic site.
The Diamond Jubilee marks 60 years of Leidesdorff Plaza serving as a cultural and historical landmark in Historic Folsom. Organizers note the celebration will emphasize the deep historical roots tied to the Negro Bar area of Sacramento County, including early agricultural production between 1845 and 1848 and the establishment of the Negro Bar Hotel and Store in the early 1850s, all part of the broader legacy connected to the American River corridor.
Monday’s gathering also serves as a lead-in to California Ag Day activities scheduled for April 21 at the State Capitol, linking the region’s agricultural history to ongoing discussions surrounding policy and land use at the state and national levels.
As part of the broader initiative, organizers say the Diamond Jubilee aims to connect Folsom’s past with its present, highlighting the transformation of the area from a Gold Rush-era townsite into a modern community anchored by transit, commerce and regional connectivity.
“We invite the regional community to join us as we honor the 60th anniversary of this landmark,” said Michael Harris, project coordinator. “Starting this nationwide journey with Dr. Armstead’s portrayal of Leidesdorff ensures that the spirit of our history remains at the forefront of our progress.”
The Leidesdorff Plaza Diamond Jubilee kickoff is free and open to the public, with events taking place at the Historic Folsom Light Rail Station, also known as Leidesdorff Plaza, in the heart of the city’s historic district.
For more information about Dr. James Holmes Armstead and his work, visithttps://drjamesarmstead.com/.
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