Cattle on Irvine Ranch, 1900. The Irvine Ranch grew Valencia oranges and was a leader in dry farming and livestock. The rangelands were reminiscent of the following hills of Ireland where James Irvine left in 1846 at nineteen years old. According to the Irvine Historical Society, James took a one-hundred-one-day journey and ate hard beans,… Read More Irvine

Maritime History by 70 Degrees 16th Century 1542: Juan Rodríguez Cabrillo becomes the first European to explore the California coast, landing in what is now San Diego Bay. His journey establishes Spanish maritime claims to the region. 1579: Sir Francis Drake explores the northern California coast and claims it for England, naming the area “Nova… Read More Maritime History

San Juan Capistrano, a picturesque city nestled in the heart of Orange County, California, is a destination that offers a rich tapestry of history, culture, and natural beauty. Mission San Juan Capistrano was established in 1776. Here’s a guide to some of the must-visit places at the birthplace of Orange County. 📸 Share your Visit… Read More San Juan Capistrano

August 2024 by 70 Degrees According to the National Archives, 70° Fahrenheit is the preferred temperature that is optimal for the preservation of artifacts in exhibition spaces. Dana Point History ⚓Happy Birthday, Richard Henry Dana Jr.! ⚓ Richard Henry Dana Jr. embarked on a sailor’s adventure aboard the brig Pilgrim in 1834 where he sailed… Read More August 2024

Santa Barbara is nestled between the Pacific Ocean and the Santa Ynez Mountains. Santa Barbara is the perfect destination for those looking to explore The American Rivera. Top Attractions Santa Barbara’s iconic pier, Stearns Wharf offers breathtaking ocean views, boutique shopping, and fresh seafood dining. It’s a perfect spot for a leisurely stroll and a… Read More Santa Barbara

According to the National Archives, 70° Fahrenheit is the preferred temperature that is optimal for the preservation of artifacts in exhibition spaces. View the virtual Declaration of Independence. From the Archives The original Declaration of Independence was written by hand and signed by fifty-six members of the Continental Congress. The parchment, an animal skin, measures… Read More Field Notes | July 2024

Jennifer Keil at Casa Romantica 🏄‍♂️ Welcome to San Clemente, California 🌞 Discover the charming city of San Clemente, where the sun meets the sea. San Clemente is a must-visit destination for travelers seeking the quintessential Southern California experience. It was developed by Ole Hanson as “The Spanish Village by the Sea.” While in San… Read More San Clemente

Click on the images below to download the Arts & Culture Map. 🌊 Welcome to Dana Point, California! We are the whale capital of the world. Dana Point is a coastal paradise waiting to be explored with a Hawaiian influence from surf to cuisine. The Duke Kahanamoku exported surfing from Hawaii to California in the… Read More Dana Point

A Message from Laura Davick, Founder of the Crystal Cove Conservancy “It is so important that this history is not lost and that 100 years from now people will be able to truly step back in time and better understand Crystal Cove’s history on a much deeper level. I then contracted Jennifer and Cindy Keil… Read More Laura Davick Crystal Cove Historic Archive Collection