Bethel Island was named for the Bethell Brothers, Frank and Warren Bethell, who formed the first successful farm on the island, called Sand Mound Ranch. Frank Bethell was appointed postmaster of the first post office; however, a pious clerk at the U.S. Postal office did not want the name "Bet Hell" and dropped the additional "L" to make it "Bethel", like the Hebrew term בית אל beth el which translates to "House of God," is known for its recreational activities. The island's reputation as such began in 1930, with Blanche and Jack Farrar founding a park with swimming, picnicking and other outdoor activities. This park would eventually be called Farrar Park. Remsburg Marina was started by Warren Remsburg in 1938, and in 1944 a fishing resort called Frank's had gained popularity on the island. The resort was built by the Andronico family. By the 1950s the area became popular with sport fishermen and the rich. Frank Bethell and Warren Bethell's widow, Ann Youree Bethell sold their interest in the island in 1901. Ann went on to form a successful ranch in Almaden Valley and established the Bethell Block in downtown San Jose.
Geography
Bethel Island, California, is located in East Contra Costa County. It is one of the western islands within the California Delta region. The island is bounded on the west and northwest by Taylor Slough, on the north and east by Piper Slough, on the southeast by Sand Mound Slough, on the east by Frank's Tract, and on the southwest by Dutch Slough. The island is approximately in size.
Governance
The Bethel Island Municipal Improvement District has five directors, elected from the local community. They are responsible primarily for maintaining the levee around the island. They also have responsibilities for water supply and drainage; parks and playgrounds; and the local airports. As of January 2012, the Directors are:
BIMID was created by the California State Legislature in 1960, replacing Reclamation District No. 1619. BIMID owns of land in the center of the island between Bethel Island Road and Piper Road. Appromiately is used for sourcing sand to maintain the levee; plus approximately used to plant new trees to mitigate for tree removal elsewhere on the island. The BIMID property on Stone Road consists of the District offices, a meeting room and a small equipment yard.
