MONTHLY PROGRAM

Aleta George

Ina Coolbrith was crowned California’s first poet laureate in San Francisco 103 years ago. Bret Harte called her the “sweetest note in California literature.” Charles Warren Stoddard dubbed her the “pearl of all her tribe.” Ina’s first love was poetry, but she earned a living as a librarian, first in Oakland where she mentored Jack London, and then in San Francisco at the Mercantile Library and the Bohemian Club, where she was an honorary member.

Aleta George, journalist and author of Ina Coolbrith: The Bittersweet Song of California’s First Poet Laureate, will speak about Coolbrith, the poet’s love of San Francisco, and her constellation of literary friends. Books will be available for sale and signing.

SFHS monthly programs are free to members. Non-member fee is $10, which may be applied to membership dues within 30 days; $5 for non-member seniors, students, K–12 teachers, and people with disabilities. Programs are normally scheduled on the second Tuesday of each month, except August and December. Programs are subject to change, so please check for updates at sfhistory.org.

Roosevelt Middle School features on-site parking (enter on Palm Avenue) and public transportation nearby.