Trailblazing Historian and Oldest U.S. Park Ranger Betty Reid Soskin Dies at 104

Trailblazing historian and the oldest U.S. park ranger, Betty Reid Soskin, has passed away at the age of 104. Her remarkable life spanned a century marked by activism, resilience, and advocacy for marginalized communities.

Early Life and Background

Betty Charbonnet was born in Detroit, Michigan, in 1921. She survived the Great Mississippi Flood in 1927, leading her family to relocate to Oakland, California. During World War II, she worked as a file clerk for the U.S. Air Force but resigned after discovering she had been hired under the assumption that she was white.

Contributions to Black History and Civil Rights

In 1945, Soskin co-founded Reid’s Records in Berkeley, one of the first Black-owned record stores in the Bay Area. This establishment became a vital community hub for nearly 75 years. Throughout the 1960s and 1970s, she actively participated in the civil rights movement, advocating for fair housing and educational opportunities.

A Legacy of Advocacy

• 1995: Named California Woman of the Year for her contributions to advocacy.
• 2000: Played a key role in the planning of the Rosie the Riveter/WWII Home Front National Historical Park.
• 2004: Joined the National Park Service as a temporary interpretive ranger at age 84.
• 2011: Became a permanent ranger at the age of 89.
• 2015: Lit the National Christmas Tree at the White House and received a presidential coin from President Obama.
• 2016: Survived a violent home invasion but returned to work weeks later.
• 2018: Performed with the Oakland Symphony at Oakland’s Paramount Theatre.
• 2019: Published her memoir, “Sign My Name to Freedom,” detailing her life and advocacy.
• 2021: Production began for her documentary highlighting her music and activism.
• 2022: Retired from the National Park Service at age 100.

Inspiration and Recognition

Soskin’s dedication to education and justice remained evident throughout her life. Even after retirement, she continued to inspire audiences through her public appearances and reflections. Her memoir and the documentary, “Sign My Name to Freedom: The Lost Music of Betty Reid Soskin,” showcase her life’s work and impact on civil rights.

Honoring Betty Reid Soskin

The West Contra Costa Unified School District honored her legacy by renaming Juan Crespi Middle School to Betty Reid Soskin Middle School in 2022. California Superintendent of Public Instruction Tony Thurmond spoke passionately about her impact, stating that Soskin inspired many through her lifelong dedication to civil rights, women’s rights, and racial justice.

Betty Reid Soskin leaves behind a profound legacy. Her remarkable resilience and commitment to justice serve as a beacon for future generations.