Julian Elihu Bagley was born in South Jacksonville, Florida in 1892. He earned a degree in agriculture from the Hampton Institute and served in the Army during World War I. He moved to San Francisco in 1922 to open a waterfront hotel, and he became well-known as the concierge of the San Francisco War Memorial Opera House. He served as the opera house’s official greeter for 39 years beginning on its opening night on October 15, 1932. Bagley was also the author of a book of animal folktales, Candle-lighting time in Bodidalee, a collection of African folktales set in his native Florida.
The collection includes five photographs, nine pieces of correspondence, newspaper clippings, and programs from the author’s memorial service.
Guide to the Julian Bagley Collection
Available at the African American Museum & Library at Oakland (AAMLO)
We encourage researchers to contact AAMLO before visiting so that we can be prepared to assist you. Please call 510-637-2000 or email aamlo@oaklandlibrary.org to arrange an appointment or inquire about access.
