Katie Wheeler Library, Irvine, CA The Irvine Ranch grew Valencia oranges prior to our county’s incorporation. It was a leader in dry farming and livestock. The rangelands were reminiscent of the hills of Ireland where James Irvine lived and left in 1846 when he was nineteen years old.
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
Hispanic Heritage Month begins on September 15th. We celebrate the Hispanic explorers that created California’s multi-cultural identity. From the Archives ⚓Balboa Park was named after Vasco Núñez de Balboa. His crew crossed the Isthmus of Panama to reach the Pacific Ocean in 1513. As the first Europeans to lead an expedition and reach the Pacific,… Read More September 2024
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
Before After See the historical district images and virtual tour created by Crystal Cove State Park and Crystal Cove Conservancy! Visit the forty-six California vernacular architecture cottages designed with local materials from palm frawns to shipwreck materials. Dating back to the early days of beach tents and makeshift cottages, the “Commons” in the Crystal Cove… Read More Crystal Cove
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
🏄♂️ 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 Clemente, don’t miss the pier… Read More San Clemente
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