On 11 November 1961, 4 fires ignited in the East Bay Parks, in Tilden, Briones, Roberts and Chabot Parks. Because of the simultaneity, arson was suspected. A total of 400 acres were consumed.
The arsonist did not succeed as well as he wanted. The winds were not Diablo winds but southwest winds, and neither temperature nor winds were high enough to cause massive loss of property or life.
The outline of the fire is recorded as follows (approximate recreation):
Looking at the map, it appears that the ignition point was on the East side of Wildcat Creek, close to the creek, and very likely close to the main trail. On the North, the fire climbed a steep slope, and was stopped at the top. The fire extended naturally towards the North-East, and was stopped very near San Pablo Ridge.
Unusually, we have access to a short video of the fire:
This fascinating video was shot by Robert Oswalt, from near 99 Purdue Avenue in Kensington. The video can be difficult to interpret, but we can recognize Wildcat Creek, and the fire is climbing towards San Pablo Ridge.
The official record in East Bay Parks list:
- November 1961 - Tilden, Briones, Roberts & Chabot. 4 fires, 400 acres. South-west wind. Ignition: arson.