The Rio Linda Arch was erected at the intersection of Rio Linda Boulevard and M Street in 1926 and still stands today as a symbol of pride for the community. The Rio Linda Grange #403 received the Arch as a gift from the town of Marysville and they are the custodians of this Historic Point of Interest.
The original arches were constructed at seven locations in the commercial district of Marysville in 1911 as supports for overhead electric lines used by the electric trolley system. Thousands gathered the evening of December 20, 1911 to watch the ceremonial lighting of the arches.
The arches were dismantled between 1924 and 1925 due to structural and electrical problems caused by a lack of maintenance. In 1925, the arch at 3rd and C street was donated to the Rio Linda Grange.
With the help of several volunteers and the use of PG&E; equipment, the arch was dismantled and transported to Rio Linda. On July 23, 1926, the repaired arch was dedicated at the intersection of Rio Linda Blvd and M street where it still stands as a historic landmark.
Mike Grandinetti has been serving as the Arch Renovation Coordinator.
“Our beloved Arch is need of restoration. The concrete pillars need to be repaired and painted and the Arch itself needs to be inspected for rust and damage and then painted. We hope to spruce up the Arch in time for the Rio Linda Centennial Celebration in October.”
The work has begun. A group of volunteers has begun with cleaning and preparing the bases for painting. (See attached photos.) Special thanks to SNR Construction and Robert Russell for the cement work. The team will gather on Saturday, August 25th at 6 am to finish the project in time for Rio Linda’s Centennial Celebration. The community is invited to be part of this historic event. The workers are then invited to the Grange #403 Community Hall to share a lunch of gratitude.
“What a gift to Rio Linda as it celebrates 100 years as a community!”
Mike Grandinetti
