History Blog: County Supervisors from Union City

In a recent mailing, County Supervisor Richard Valle proudly states that he is the first County Supervisor from Union City. Being a historian, this obviously pricked my ears.

If one defines Union City, as being the incorporated city after 1959, then, indeed, Valle is the first County Supervisor from Union City. Since 1959, there has not been a County Supervisor from Union City.

If one defines Union City as the area that was formerly known as the towns of Alvarado and Decoto, then Valle is not the first County Supervisor from Union City.

Alameda County was created in 1853, put forth by State Assembly member, Henry C. Smith of Alvarado. In 1855, the Board of Supervisors was created. Each township was represented on the Board, for a total of 6 board members. Alvarado and Decoto were part of Washington Township and were represented by Henry C. Smith. Henry served two terms, being elected in April and September 1855.

In December, 1860, Charles Eigenbrodt, from Alvarado, was elected as County Supervisor from Washington Township. He served two terms, being elected again in November 1861. Eigenbrodt joined the Union Army in 1863 and died in battle in 1864.

In January, 1925, Ralph V. Richard ,from Alvarado, was elected as County Supervisor. He served for a period of 5 terms, until May 1937, when George Hellwig, also from Alvarado, was elected to the post. Hellwig served for three terms.

Since all of the previous County Supervisors were from Alvarado, Valle can also say that he is the first County Supervisor from Decoto.