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Ukraina: A Sanctuary of Freedom in the Hayward Hills

Discover the legacy of Ukrainian patriot Agapius Honcharenko at his former homestead, a California Historical Landmark in Hayward's Garin Regional Park.

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Ukraina, California Historical Landmark #1025, is located within Garin Regional Park in Hayward. It marks the farmstead and final resting place of Agapius Honcharenko (1832-1916), a Ukrainian patriot, exiled Orthodox priest, and advocate for human rights, and his wife, Albina. This remote site provided Honcharenko refuge where he could freely express his beliefs and continue his fight for social justice.

A brief summary to Ukraina, California Historical Landmark #1025

Local tips

  • Wear comfortable shoes for the 3.2-mile Ukraina Loop Trail hike to the historical site.
  • Visit the Garin Barn Visitor Center near the main entrance to view agricultural exhibits (open Saturdays during the summer).
  • Pack a picnic to enjoy in the park's scenic areas.
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Getting There

  • Driving

    To reach Ukraina, drive to Garin Regional Park. From I-580 E in East Bay, merge onto I-880 S towards San Jose. Take exit 29 for W 14th St toward Hayward. Continue on W 14th St, then turn left onto Mission Blvd. After approximately 2 miles, turn right onto Garin Ave. At Garin's main entrance, you can find parking. Vehicle parking is also available near Stonebrae Elementary School, where the Ukraina Loop Trail begins. Parking fees at Garin Regional Park are typically around $5 per vehicle.

  • Public Transport

    To reach Ukraina via public transportation, take BART to the Hayward station. From there, catch the AC Transit Bus Line 90 or Line 21 toward the Hayward City Center. Get off at the stop closest to Fairview Ave. From there, it is approximately a 15-minute walk to Garin Regional Park. A single BART fare from San Francisco to Hayward is approximately $4.00 - $6.00. A single ride on AC Transit is $2.50.

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Discover more about Ukraina, California Historical Landmark #1025

Nestled within the rolling hills of Garin Regional Park in Hayward, California, lies Ukraina, a site of profound historical significance. Designated as California Historical Landmark #1025, Ukraina marks the farmstead and final resting place of Agapius Honcharenko (1832-1916) and his wife, Albina. Born in Kiev, Ukraine, Honcharenko witnessed the stark inequalities within the Russian Empire. Appalled by the Church's suppression of peasants and the opulent lifestyle of the clergy, he dedicated himself to challenging the feudal system, leading to clashes with authorities and his eventual exile. After wandering, Honcharenko arrived in the United States, becoming the first nationally conscious Ukrainian to settle in the country. He initially resided in San Francisco, where he published 'The Alaska Herald,' the first American newspaper in Russian and Ukrainian languages, which served as a platform for his progressive views and critiques of the Russian government. In 1873, facing continued threats, Honcharenko and Albina purchased 80 acres of land in the Hayward Hills, naming their farmstead 'Ukraina,' as a testament to their enduring connection to their homeland. Here, they cultivated a simple life, tending to their orchards and gardens while Honcharenko continued his writing and activism. Ukraina became a sanctuary for Honcharenko, where he could freely express his beliefs and continue his fight for social justice. He wrote extensively on political and social issues, smuggling his works into Czarist Russia to inspire change. Agapius Honcharenko passed away in 1916 and was buried next to Albina on their farm. Although the original buildings have since disappeared, the site remains a powerful symbol of his life and legacy. Today, visitors to Garin Regional Park can explore the Ukraina Loop trail, a 3.2-mile hike that leads to the historical site.

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