NPS Photo, Luther Bailey
Betty Reid Soskin: A Voice for the Ages
Betty Reid Soskin (née Betty Charbonnet) grew up in a Cajun-Creole, African American family that settled in Oakland, California, following the “Great Flood” that devastated New Orleans in 1927. Her parents joined her maternal grandfather, George Allen, who had resettled in Oakland after World War I. The Allen family followed the migration pattern of Black railroad workers who discovered the West Coast while working as sleeping car porters, waiters, and chefs for the Southern Pacific and Santa Fe railroads. These workers often settled at the western end of their routes, seeking a life less burdened by southern hostility.
Youth and Memories
Betty graduated from Castlemont High School in Oakland during the World’s Fair at Treasure Island. She vividly recalls life in the Bay Area before major infrastructure developments, such as ferry boats crossing the San Francisco Bay before the construction of its iconic bridges, and the Oakland International Airport as just two small hangars. Betty also remembers historical moments like Amelia Earhart’s departure and tragic loss, and the Port Chicago ammunition ship explosion on July 17, 1944.
Career and Advocacy
During World War II, Betty worked as a file clerk in the segregated Union hall of Boilermaker’s A-36. In 1945, she and her husband, Mel Reid, founded one of the first Black-owned music stores, Reid’s Records, which operated until its closure in 2019. Over the years, Betty held roles as staff to a Berkeley city council member and as a field representative for two California State Assembly members: former Assemblywoman Dion Aroner and Senator Loni Hancock.
Collaboration with the National Park Service
In the early 2000s, Betty contributed to scoping meetings with the City of Richmond and the National Park Service (NPS) to develop the general management plan for Rosie the Riveter/WWII Home Front National Historical Park. Through a grant funded by PG&E, she helped uncover untold stories of African Americans on the WWII Home Front, which led to a temporary NPS position at the age of 84. By 2007, Betty became a permanent NPS employee, leading public programs and sharing her personal observations and remembrances at the park visitor center.
National Recognition
In 2013, during the federal government shutdown, Betty’s status as the oldest NPS ranger gained national and international attention through numerous media interviews. While emphasizing the importance of her work, she steered clear of political debates, focusing on her mission to share the stories of the WWII Home Front. This exposure transformed her from a local Bay Area figure to a globally recognized symbol of resilience and history.
In 2015, Betty was selected to participate in the national tree-lighting ceremony in President’s Park at the White House, introducing President Barack Obama during the PBS telecast.
Later Years and Retirement
In fall 2019, Betty suffered a stroke and spent months in physical therapy. She returned to work in 2020 before retiring from the NPS. Despite her retirement, her impact and legacy continue to resonate through her numerous accomplishments and accolades. On the morning of December 21, 2025, Betty peacefully passed away in her home at the age of 104.
Media and Cultural Impact
Betty has been featured in numerous interviews and programs, including the Today Show, NPR, the Tavis Smiley Show, NBC Bay Area, the Commonwealth Club, and Newsweek. Her story has also been the subject of podcasts and independent films.
Betty is celebrated as a reflection of resilience, determination, and historical insight.
Hoặc