(From left to right) Brett Swisher, VP Operations for Wayne E. Swisher Cement; Brad Middleton, Director of Safety for Drill Tech Drilling & Shoring; Antioch District 3 City Councilman Don Freitas; Mayor Pro Tem Louie Rocha; Cid Zamora, son of Joe Zamora, First Congregational Church member who stored the bell; Museum Past-President and First Congregational Church Bell project leader Dwayne Eubanks; First Congregational Church Bell project team members Tom Menasco – leading the fundraising, Laura Jacques, Carla Baker Marymee and construction manager Stan Davis joined in for the ceremonial groundbreaking of the bell tower. Photos by Allen D. Payton
From city’s first church; fundraising goal almost met, still needs support
By Antioch Historical Society
The Antioch Historical Society hosted a groundbreaking ceremony on Wednesday, July 23, 2025, on the museum grounds on W. 4th Street, to build a tower to house the 157-year-old First Congregational Church bell and restore it. The bell is said to be one of the oldest known artifacts in Antioch. (See related articles here and here)
A groundbreaking was held for the tower to house the historic First Congregational Church of Antioch bell on the Museum grounds on Wednesday, July 23, 2025. Rendering and photos source: Antioch Historical Museum
City officials and staff, Historical Society and project team members were joined by construction company representatives for the event.
Thank you to all who attended.
(From left to right) Brett Swisher, Brad Middleton, project team member Lucy Meinhardt; Acting City of Antioch Parks & Recreation Director Shahad Wright; Dwayne Eubanks; Tom Menasco, Laura Jacques, Carla Baker Marymee and Stan Davis participated in for the ceremonial groundbreaking of the bell tower.
Project leader Dwayne Eubanks said, “the bell rang out in 1871 a year before the City was founded. The bell stood as a symbol of unity in a city of diversity.”
“There will be a patio with benches or a concrete block wall around it,” Eubanks shared. “Almost $83,000 has been raised out of the $94,000 goal.”
Bell tower project leader Dwayne Eubanks shares details with those who attended the ceremonial groundbreaking on July 23, 2025.
Checks can be sent to: Antioch Historical Museum, 1500 West 4th Street, Antioch, CA 94509. Names of sponsors will be permanently inscribed at the exhibit site. Contributions are tax deductible. If you have questions, contact Dwayne Eubanks at the Antioch Historical Society Museum at (925) 757-1326.
The groundbreaking for the tower to house the historic First Congregational Church of Antioch bell on the Museum grounds will be held Wednesday, July 23, 2025. Rendering (left) and photos: Antioch Historical Museum
Community embraces restoration of 157-year-old bell from First Congregational Church of Antioch
By Tom Menasco & Carla Baker Marymee
The Antioch Historical Museum is excited to announce a groundbreaking ceremony to restore the 157-year-old First Congregational Church Bell and construction of the Unity Bell Tower. The ceremony is scheduled for July 23, 2025 at 1:30 p.m. The community is invited to attend.
The 700-pound brass bell, donated by First Congregational Church Board member Paul Fish, is one of the oldest artifacts from the settling of Antioch by early Americans. The church bell is said to have brought early members of the church together as it rang loudly across the city. It was heard by Antioch’s founders; Rev. W.W. Smith and Captain George W. Kimball, as well as Thomas Gaines, the first known Black settler who was a sexton of the church.
“The First Congregational Church of Antioch traces its roots to June 12, 1865, when it was founded as the city’s pioneer church under the United Church of Christ (UCC) banner.
“Over its 150-year history, the church has prioritized hospitality—welcoming all without exception, including African Americans as early as 1875 and children of Chinese laborers building the Delta levees,” Dwayne Eubanks, Antioch Historical Museum board member said.
“Antioch is the third largest city in Contra Costa County with a population of more than 117,097 residents. Over the decades the demographics of Antioch have changed. We are a diverse community with an amazing history and story to tell. Our goal is to become a reflection of an inclusive, multiracial, and multicultural city that embraces all people. It is our wish that this bell and the Unity Bell Tower will symbolize growing appreciation for all people,” he said.
“We thank the Antioch community for recognizing the importance of preserving this valuable piece of the city’s history. Because of generous donations, we were able to raise $85,000.00,” Eubanks added.
Work on the Unity Bell Tower is being accomplished by Wayne E. Swisher Cement Contractor, Evan & Son Masonry, and Drill Tech who have made significant in-kind contributions to this project.
The project has also been generously supported by individual donors, the Antioch City Council, local businesses, and non-profit organizations including: Delta Veteran’s Group and Antioch Veterans Banner Program, St. Ignatius Catholic Church, Fontana Family Foundation, Antioch Rotary Club, Kiwanis Delta Antioch, and Class of ’66 Antioch High School.
There are eight sponsorship levels, providing a range of giving opportunities – diamond, gold, platinum, silver, bronze, copper, sapphire, and ruby. Names of sponsors will be permanently inscribed at the exhibit site. Contributions are tax deductible.
The project’s dedication is expected by Fall 2025, coinciding with the 50th anniversary of the society’s creation and the 25th year being located at the 1910 Riverview High School site.
The Antioch Historical Museum resides within the 1910 Riverview High School, a site listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The museum, located at 1500 W. 4th Street, is also home of the Antioch Sports Legends Hall of Fame program. The Sports Legends Hall of Fame showcases and honors the achievements of 253 individual athletes and 17 teams.
In historic, downtown Rivertown; fireworks show over the river!
Join the City of Antioch in celebrating Independence Day in our historic downtown Rivertown on Friday, July 4th. Visit Waldie Plaza to experience live entertainment and enjoy local restaurants, food vendors and trucks. Have an exciting time with friends and family during the parade, in the Kids & Family Zone and the Dunk Tank fundraiser located at City Hall, before picking your spot to see the big fireworks show over the river.
Parade Route
The parade will begin on July 4, 2025, at the intersection of W. 2nd and E Streets in Antioch’s historic, downtown Rivertown at 4:00 PM. The Judge’s Station will be located at the center of Waldie Plaza. A second parade performance stop will be on W. 3rd Street next to City Hall. We will finish the parade on W. 3rd Street at the corner of D Street.
Celebration Site
The main celebration site will take place in Waldie Plaza and the parking lot of City Hall, encompassing W. 2nd to W 3rd Streets and G to I (“eye”) Streets. There are many occurrences within the celebration site including a live entertainment stage, local vendors, food trucks, Family Zone, DJ stage and much more.
Schedule of Events
4:00 PM – 5:00 PM Parade
4:00 PM – 9:00 PM Kids/Family Zone
5:00 PM – 8:00 PM Dunk Tank Fundraiser – Kids Zone
5:00 PM – 6:30 PM Live Entertainment | Ariel Marin
5:00PM – 9:00 PM Kids Zone Stage | DJ Melly Mel
7:00 PM Announcement of Parade Winners
7:15 PM – 9:15 PM Live Entertainment | The Purple Ones – The Insatiable Tribute to Prince
Virtuous Voices Singers (left to right) Ivan Stewart, Lydia Stewart, Elise Culberson, Roma Desilva and Mya King perform at the Brentwood Juneteenth Festival June 19, 2025. Academy Founder, Tiffany Stewart with her students. Photos by Virtuous Voices
The City of Brentwood joyfully celebrated its Second Annual Juneteenth Festival this past Thursday with a powerful showcase of culture, unity, and artistic expression. Opening the event with a moving performance was Antioch-based Virtuous Voices Music Academy, whose singers delivered a heartfelt tribute to freedom through song.
As the first act of the day, Virtuous Voices set an inspiring tone for the festival, reminding attendees of the power of music to uplift, connect, and reflect on our shared history. Their performance underscored the importance of celebrating freedom – especially in today’s world where unity and expression remain essential.
The Virtuous Voices Singers performing at the event were Ivan Stewart, Lydia Stewart, Elise Culberson, Roma Desilva, and Mya King.
Virtuous Voices Music Academy, known for cultivating confidence and creativity through vocal performance and music theory, was honored to be part of this meaningful community event.
“We are so proud of our young singers,” said Tiffany Stewart, founder of Virtuous Voices Music Academy, a vocal coach and Music Theory Teacher. “To open a celebration as important as Juneteenth is a true honor. Our students sang not only with skill, but with heart.”
The Juneteenth Festival in Brentwood continues to grow as a cherished local tradition, commemorating the emancipation of enslaved African Americans and celebrating Black culture, resilience, and excellence.
Featuring performances by headliner Grammy-nominated Shanice and Golden State Warriors performance band Universal Soul
Celebrate freedom, culture and community right here at home! Join us for Antioch’s fourth annual Juneteenth Celebration on Thursday, June 19th at Williamson Ranch Park from 4-8 PM, featuring a special headlining performance by Shanice! Enjoy live music, local vendors, food, and powerful moments of history and heritage. From history booths to rides and games to domino and double dutch tournaments, there will be plenty to keep the entire family entertained! Don’t forget to bring your lawn chairs and blankets!
Headliner: Shanice
Shanice Wilson is a Grammy-nominated American singer, songwriter, record producer, actress, and dancer. She had the Billboard hit singles “I Love Your Smile” and “Silent Prayer” in 1991 and “Saving Forever for You” in 1993. In 1999, Shanice scored another hit song with “When I Close My Eyes“, which peaked at No. 12 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart. She is recognized for her coloratura soprano voice and her ability to sing in the whistle register.[4]
In addition to singing, Shanice is also an actress, first appearing in “Rock Enroll”, a season five episode of Family Matters.[12] In 2001, she made a guest appearance as a singer on her husband Flex’s TV show, One on One. That same year, she starred in the TV movie One Special Moment,[13] an adaptation of Brenda Jackson‘s 1998 novel of the same name.
In 1997, Shanice became the first Black performer to star in the role of Eponine in the musical Les Misérables on Broadway.[14] In 2011, she joined Niecy Nash and Frenchie Davis for the 21st Annual “Divas Simply Singing” HIV/AIDS charity event.[15] Shanice and her husband, Flex, also starred in the reality show Flex & Shanice, which premiered on the Oprah Winfrey Network on November 1, 2014.
She is currently starring as Michelle Obama in the Broadway musical “44,” the Obama musical, and has her own lipstick line, called Smile by Shanice.
She is currently performing all over the USA and the world and working on new music as well.
Universal Soul
Universal Soul is one of the Golden State Warriors’ favorites (that plays during home games at Chase Center in San Francisco). The band’s name is inspired by their desire to provide music that resonates with all GSW audiences and fans everywhere.
The band consists of four dynamic musicians: Dante “Taz” Roberson, Eddie Minniefield, Michael “Tiny” Lindsay, and George Epps. Their substantial experience and versatility have allowed them to tour and share the stage with artists Eric Benet, Cameo, Gavin DeGraw, Anthony Hamilton, Joe, Kem, Alicia Keys, John Mayer, Shawn Raiford, Tank, Too Short, and Tony! Toni! Tone! and many more. The band’s musical influences and style are infused with funk, jazz, pop, rock, and classic R&B. This unique fusion creates a “Universal” sound that is both nostalgic and fresh.
The band consists of four dynamic musicians: Dante “Taz” Roberson, Eddie Minniefield, Michael “Tiny” Lindsay, and George Epps. Their substantial experience and versatility have allowed them to tour and share the stage with artists Eric Benet, Cameo, Gavin DeGraw, Anthony Hamilton, Joe, Kem, Alicia Keys, John Mayer, Shawn Raiford, Tank, Too Short, and Tony! Toni! Tone! and many more. The band’s musical influences and style are infused with funk, jazz, pop, rock, and classic R&B. This unique fusion creates a “Universal” sound that is both nostalgic and fresh.
Their high-energy performances and ability to connect with the crowd have made them a fan favorite at Chase Center. They have become an integral part of the overall game day experience for GSW fans, adding an extra level of excitement and entertainment to each home game. Universal Soul’s dedication to providing top-notch musical entertainment for GSW fans has solidified their reputation as one of the premier performance bands in the NBA. With their infectious energy and undeniable talent, Universal Soul continues to captivate audiences and enhance the overall game day experience for GSW fans.
Thank you to our sponsors: Republic Services, All Phase Brokers, Metz Entertainment Group, Ironworkers Family Health and Marathon Health.
Efforts are underway to house the historic First Congregational Church bell in a tower on the Museum grounds. (Right – Example of tower and bricks for foundation). Photos: Antioch Historical Society
“Ring it loud! Ring it proud! Be part of Antioch’s history!”
During Society’s 50th and Museum’s 25th Anniversaries
By Allen D. Payton
The Antioch Historical Society is at it again with another project for the grounds of the Museum. This time they’re raising funds to restore and locate a display of the historic First Congregational Church bell, one of the oldest artifacts in the city.
The effort is being led by Past Board President Dwayne Eubanks and Tom Menasco, a co-founder of the Sports Legends wing and leader of the successful fundraising effort for the Red Caboose display.
Menasco is serving as the marketing and fundraising manager, Director Stan Davis and Ron Bass are serving as construction managers, Eubanks shared.
According to the Historical Society, the bell “was heard more than 150 years ago by early church members, including Antioch’s founders Rev. W.W. Smith and Captain George W. Kimball. It was heard by the church sexton, Thomas Gaines, the first known Black settler in Antioch.”
When reached for comment, Eubanks said, “The church bell is very significant to Antioch as it goes back to the time when the city was incorporated and was heard by people including the first Constable and Mayor, Roswell Hard, William Wiggins Smith, Thomas Gaines, and Adelia Kimball, the community’s first teacher.”
“We’re building a custom bell housing. We paid a company that specializes in designing bell towers back in 2022. But we had to put the plans on the shelf for a few years due to COVID.”
Church bell and tower Fundraising Goal and progress and Elevations. Source: Antioch Historical Society
Antioch resident Joseph Zamora, a member of the First Congregation Church, donated the bell.
“It was in his backyard under a tarp. It’s 700 lbs.,” Eubanks stated.
“We’re hoping the bell will help unite old Antioch and new Antioch. To me, personally, it’s a symbol of unity,” he added.
They’ll build the tower, display the bell, “and it’s going to ring,” Eubanks exclaimed.
Asked how much the Society is raising for the project, he said, “The construction estimate was around $96,000 and we’ve raised $48,000. Part of that came out of our budget. That includes profit and labor. But we’re taking that out as we may get in-kind services and materials that will cut that balance down.”
“The City gave us a civic enhancement grant and waived the construction permit fee,” he shared.
“We’re hoping to put this bell and tower in this year as it’s the 50th Anniversary of the Historical Society and 25th Anniversary of the museum in the former Antioch High School and fire department building,” Eubanks mentioned.
“Ring it loud! Ring it proud! Be part of Antioch’s history!Leave a legacy for your children and grandchildren to see, ring, and enjoy. Let’s hear it ring again! Become a sponsor today and your name will be permanently inscribed on the exhibit,” the Society shared on their Facebook page.
To donate online, visit their website at: https://antiochhistoricalmuseum.org/donations/ or see the flyer below. The Museum is located at 1500 W. 4th Street and is open Wednesdays and Saturdays from 1:00 to 4:00 p.m. For more information call (925) 757-1326.
