WalterWorld

Tagus Ranch & Perry's Coffee Shop Revisited - Tulare, CA

2011-03-04T08:18:00.000-08:00

Among my older posts (aren't they all?), one that continues to garner new looks and comments concerns a former dining and dancing destination located on dusty Highway 99 just to the north of the fine city of Tulare, CA: World Famous Tagus Ranch.

The site of this magnificent ruin has always piqued my interest whenever I'm motoring past, and several times at the urging of my kids I have stopped to document the old building's current state of decay. I last did so on August 6, 2010, and here are some pictures from that 100 degree day:

Was that a BBQ pit to the back left?

A Warning sign:

A few Urban Explorers have made it inside:

Menace said:

"Hello there Walter,
I may have not been alive to [see] this place in it's glory days but I did go see this place recently. I was filming a short film for my video class and we all decided to go to Tagus Ranch. We heard it was haunted(because we heard at least one girl was murdered there) so we were all frightened. Well we all went inside that place and it was really dark even in the daytime, we came upon the room with the pentogram(star) with strange symblos and an eye in the middle and we all freaked. Our video turned out crappy so we have to reshoot but this time at night!"
DECEMBER 18, 2009 6:57 PM

I sure hope 'Menace' made it back and will share some of the pics from the second outing.

Here's a closeup of the ghost-sign-brand 'TR' that used to adorn the exterior and can be seen in the postcard view from my original post.

Stacy Hargrove mentioned in her kind comments that she had been inside and that "...even the old Tagus Ranch symbol was there." Stacy: Would the symbol that you saw be the same one that used to grace this wall?

Ahh, the Great Sign:

Here's a souvenir for you smokers out there:

Long time Tulare residents will remember Perry’s Coffee Shop. Here’s a link to my previous post regarding “The Best Cup Of Coffee on Highway 99”, along with a postcard view of the interior from the 1960’s:

One happy couple enjoyed their time here very much, and wrote their friends Mr. & Mrs. Norman Anderson of La Puente, CA to tell them so:

“Dear Folks – We enjoyed our brief visit with you so much. Having a wonderful trip. This is a lovely dining room & a nice motel. Temp here is over 100 degrees but nice inside. We hope to see Sequoia National Park & Yosemite tomorrow. Regards, Florence and Tony Zelir”(?)

Postmarked Tulare, July 28th, 1962.

I looked up the Anderson’s address on Google, and (yay!) it hasn’t been demolished. But I do wonder if they still live there after all these (49) years? I suppose there’s a pretty fair chance that the Anderson’s have gone on to that great Coffee Shop in The Sky, in which case I hope to meet them one day to discuss this card :)

Unfortunately, the former Perry’s Coffee Shop building was demolished a couple of years back:

Here’s a bit of the terrazzo floor to contemplate. Too bad we can no longer perform this contemplation with fresh pie and hot coffee in hand…

Further north on the 99, we pass the ruins of the Mammoth Orange in Fairmead. We used to enjoy the best ‘Alaska Sized Burgers’ and squeezed-right-in-front-of-you Orange Juice Shakes at this historic roadside stand which was the last of its kind. Too bad the exit was closed which killed the business.

Take care and drive safe…and see you next time.

Hi - Lo Motel Cafe - Weed, CA

2010-10-07T16:52:00.000-07:00

If you like stately mountains and coniferous forest, Northern California is definitely the place for you. This expansive area is home to countless creeks and swimming holes, with broad vistas and shady groves to boot.

Another highlight of the region serves up good food and comfortable lodging to the weary auto-tourist. The sign for this place beckons both night and day, calling the hungry and tired to stop and stay awhile. This time, let's stop in at the Hi - Lo!

Nestled on the Old 99 in the still-small-town of Weed, we find the Hi - Lo Motel Cafe back in the days of Ike:

The fate of many 40's - 50's motels isn't always as pretty as a postcard from the past. Many end up surrounded by chain-link fence, with their pools drained and defaced by local wise-acres.

Having said that, I’m quite pleased to report that the Hi - Lo lives on, even though Mt. Shasta was 'Obscured By Clouds' during this recent visit:

The grounds were well kept and the restaurant was bustling. And guess what? The M-O-T-E-L and C-A-F-E letters in the classic sign still light up in sequence, although it's hard to tell on such a bright sunny day:

Maybe next time we'll try one of their Refreshing Root Beer Floats.

Thanks for visiting. See you next time...

Norwalk Car Wash - Firestone Blvd

2010-08-23T19:14:00.000-07:00

Here we find a near-cousin of the Slauson Car Wash. Perhaps it was built using the same plans? Those fins appear to be very similar…

The good news about this wash-n-shine is that it looks to be as popular and well maintained as it ever was during its heyday:

Nearby are the shuttered remains of an old Van De Kamps restaurant (note the distinct former-Windmill tower) that had evolved into a Norm’s at some point:

Since Norm’s is closed, let’s have a bite at Douglas Burgers, where they Char-Broil the patties and also serve up Breakfast, Pastrami, and of course Burritos and Tacos.

From what I can find online, it appears that this place has been serving up some awesome (if fatty) food for quite some time:

That’s all for now, see you down the road…

Pacific Car Wash & Bob's Big Boy

2010-06-05T10:03:00.000-07:00

At the risk of being typecast, I hereby present another installment in the 'SoCal Classic Car Wash' series: Pacific Car Wash

Located at 12050 Beach Blvd in Stanton, California, it looks like the Pacific has seen a lot of classic autos pass through it's gates over the years. Thankfully, most of it's 60's stylings remain, but I'm guessing that the large sign used to be a bit more 'grand':

And just for good measure, here's a shot of the former Bob's Big Boy on Harbor Blvd near Disneyland. This place was vacant for a while a few years back; I'm glad that Coco's picked it up and didn't change the look:

Happy travels until next time...

Slauson Car Wash

2010-05-31T17:10:00.000-07:00

If only to show that I'm still around, here's a nice 'drive-by' shot of the Slauson Car Wash at 3615 West Slauson Avenue, Los Angeles:

The Slauson is just one of many fantastic 50's/60's style car washes scattered throughout the LA region.

I passed by after a stop at Simply Wholesome, which is housed in the former Googie landmark 'The Wich Stand' coffee shop & lounge.

Thanks for stopping by, I'll try to be back with a real post in the near future...

Greetings From Moab, UT - The Apache Motel & Other Scenic Sights

2009-09-04T22:38:00.000-07:00

Let’s visit the friendly and beautiful Red-Rock city of Moab, located near Arches National Park in southern Utah. My family and I were lucky enough to spend some time here this past summer, and we enjoyed ourselves thoroughly.

Here’s Main Street, back in the early 60’s:

And the same scene on a warm August afternoon in 2009:

Moab embraces its role as a hub for tourism and has many lodging choices to offer the weary traveler. A perfect example is the Apache Motel, which is:

Quiet off highway. Luxury 32 ultra modern units, TV, Pool, Playground, Air Cond. Delightful Restaurant. “Western Hospitality in the heart of the Canyonlands”

Tradition and value are honored at the Apache, where the large arrow-sign is still stuck firmly in the pavement out front.

According to the motel’s website, The DUKE stayed here…Wow!

The pool is still in good shape, and those old-style metal umbrellas are probably the same ones that shaded Mr. Wayne when he relaxed at poolside…

Signs on (and off) of Main Street direct traffic to the Apache, which is located on a quiet looking street away from the heart of town.

Even at night, the Apache beckons:

I’m sure that John Wayne loved neighboring Arches National Park and all of its scenic wonders, including Balancing Rock:

Landscape Arch as well...

If the Apache is all booked up, perhaps the Rustic Inn or the Virginian Motel have a room available:

The Best Western Canyonlands was home to my family and I during our stay, and we heartily recommend this excellent motel to anyone planning a visit. The beds were very comfortable and the breakfast was outstanding!

The modern Canyonlands motel is located at the corner of Center and Main. In former days, the Canyonlands Café shared the site with the older incarnation of the motel:

The old Café was bulldozed in the early 90’s, and today ‘Pasta Jays’ sits on the corner. It was always busy during our stay, and you could smell the garlic a block away.

If you get a chance to visit Arches National Park, make sure you hike down Park Avenue around Sunset…It was a truly sublime experience.

The Windows Section of the park is quite striking as well…

When we left Moab, our journey through the West continued through Castle Valley and Dead Horse Point State Park:

We made it ‘off-road’ to Goblin Valley also:

Then we proceeded to tour through Capital Reef NP and scenic Highway 12:

We finished the trip with stops at Bryce Canyon followed by Zion National Park…

It was quite a journey, and one that I would recommend to any of you who get the chance. It was the type of adventure that sticks in the old memory banks for quite awhile.

Oh, and if you get tired on the drive home, how about the Sands in St. George?

Take care and thanks for visiting…

Greetings From Modesto, California

2009-05-24T15:36:00.000-07:00

I’m not sure who first came up with the “Greetings From…” postcard format, but through the years countless states and municipalities have authored their own series of these cards to promote the scenic wonders, tourist attractions, modern buildings or other civic landmarks in their local area.

My hometown issued at least 10 of these cards beginning in the mid 1950’s, and I’ve managed to collect the majority. Today, let’s see what’s become of a few of the subjects they covered.

First up, Downey High School at 1000 Coffee Road:

I had the good fortune to find the exact piece of ground where our photographer snapped the original pic:

Modesto High School (my alma mater) came first, but the modern education age came to Modesto in 1952, when Thomas Downey High School opened up. My father Edward was in the first graduating class, and my uncles Gary and Philip followed him down the hallowed halls…

Downey’s most famous alum is George Lucas, who brought us the Star Wars and Indiana Jones movies, as well as American Graffiti, which was based on his memories of being a teenager and cruising the streets of Modesto. His movies of late have been fairly terrible, but I digress…

The Auditorium has been receiving a little facelift over the past year. I was inside about ten years ago and it was like taking a time machine back to the 50’s. I hope it isn’t changed too much...

One last look at a Classic American High School:

Now let’s take a quick detour to the outskirts of town and play a quick 18 at Del Rio Country Club:

I would have enjoyed finding the location for the ‘Now’ shot, but the club has been renovated extensively over the years and I’m fairly certain that the building pictured no longer exists. Besides, I think that Security may have taken exception to my snooping had I tried…

For our final stop, let’s journey a bit south of Modesto, to the growing town of Ceres, where the former Memorial Hospital of Stanislaus County once stood:

The building and grounds are still there actually, but now serve in the role of drug rehabilitation inpatient/outpatient facilities, as well as offices and storage.

I was born in this hospital, and my parents no doubt came through the former main entrance to get checked in:

I bet Old Glory was blowing in the breeze on that cold December day in '68...

The former approach and exit...

A newer section of the hospital features some of that wonderful rock work that was frequently used to grace our homes, coffee shops, and professional offices back in simpler times:

It's funny some of the things you can remember from your childhood.

I can remember visiting my great aunt Lottie when she was a patient in this wing. She was there for a week or so, and the nice lady who shared her room passed away during her stay…

OK, let’s get out of here, before I get too creeped out:

On a brighter note, and just down the road from the old hospital, what I suspect to be the former Sequoia Super Market continues to serve the local populace as La Sequoia (still) Super Market:

To those of you that checked back more than once to see if I had posted again, I apologize for the long delay. Thanks for visiting and I hope you enjoyed the journey.

Take care and I’ll see you down the road…

Bowling in California

2009-03-17T19:43:00.000-07:00

The bowling alley once played a much bigger role in the fabric of growing communities. Today, many of these great gathering spots are living out their final years, and I sincerely hope that the wrecking ball will continue to pass them by...

First up, it's Freeway Lanes on Golden State Blvd (old Hwy 99) just North of Selma:

Nice wall detail:

Restroom tile work circa 1958:

About 220 miles to the south, Palos Verdes Bowl remains in fine form and without bumpers if you please:

The locker room:

In Northern California, Monterey Lanes continues to offer safe haven to the occasional gutter-baller...

The entry driveway:

Interior ceiling panels:

Classic exterior patterns:

In Santa Fe Springs, we take a fond last look at Premier Lanes...Which closed in May, 2008. These pictures are from June, 2006 and I wish they weren't so washed-out.

Encore Room R.I.P.

I want some of these lockers in my hobby room (I also want a hobby room):

Last but not least, and still quite impressive in scope, here is wonderful Covina Bowl in West Covina...

The great sign:

Alas, The Egyptian Room is long gone, unfortunately...

See you next time!

Crown Motel - Anaheim, CA

2009-02-11T22:37:00.000-08:00

Once located at 1136 North Los Angeles Street (U.S. Highway 101) in beautiful Anaheim California, the Crown Motel was built and opened sometime in the very late 40’s or early 50’s.

From the days of linen postcards, here is our vintage view:

On the reverse, it’s revealed that the Crown was fully modern, with full tile, glass door showers or tubs. Heck, they even had Panelray vented heat!

Besides being near good restaurants, the Crown Motel was located across from beautiful La Palma Park, which still exists…As does the Crown, except that it now resides at 1136 North La Palma Parkway:

Don’t worry, it wasn’t moved block by block to a new location, it’s just that some of the major street names in Anaheim have shifted over the years. Chris Jepson over at the OC Archives could explain it all; he authored a post on this phenomenon last year.

During your stay at the Crown, you will probably want to venture across the street to La Palma Park. In days past, the Valencia Orange Show was held on the future park site:

Here is a view of La Palma Park from 1948. To the far left and just above the second smaller road (Swan St.), the site where the future Crown Motel is to stand is a vacant lot:

Dating the age of the Crown can be difficult if you don’t have access to a reverse directory (the Anaheim Public Library is just under 350 miles from my house) or access to a time machine. This early 1950’s aerial shot clearly shows the Crown having arrived. Look just above the Fly Casting Pool at middle upper right:

Nowadays, perhaps you would like to check out the happenings at the Martin Recreation Center:

Or maybe practice your casting at the old Fly Casting Pool:

Wait…That doesn’t look right…OK, let’s go back 45 years or so, back to a prior installment of WalterWorld to see what changed.

Then again, if fishing doesn’t float your boat, just turn around and behold the still-well-kept grounds of the Crown. Take a moment to admire the original condition of the facilities…

Remember when these metal awnings were everywhere? You don’t see them as much these days:

The sign post blends in well with the surrounding palm trees; it’s almost like the red Crown banner is floating free:

One final note: If you’re passing by and the Crown is flashing the ‘No Vacancy’ sign, truck up the street to the Palm Motor Lodge; just don’t try to swim in the pool...

Take care all, and see you down the road…

Frontier Motel, Anaheim, CA

2008-12-21T14:57:00.000-08:00

Today we pay a brief visit to the Frontier Motel at 933 Harbor Blvd in Anaheim. The Frontier has been in operation since the late 50's, and retains a touch of its former livery even though the Old West in these parts has been largely tamed.

Located just over the Interstate 5 overpass from Disneyland, the Frontier is also close to the Anaheim Convention Center and Angel Stadium. As was typical in motel advertising then (and now), other places of interest within 30-45 miles are named such as Marineland, Hollywood and Knott's:

As first conceived, the Frontier featured an open-range pool that was convenient for drive or drop-ins, as well as some good humored joking among the younger set when one party received an undesired shove towards the cool blue waters.

Here's our peak into the past courtesy of a vintage postcard:

And here's the Frontier as we know and love it today:

Progress is progress as they say, and one of the sure signs of progress is the widening of roads to handle ever increasing vehicular traffic. Harbor Blvd was widened recently and some of the Frontier grounds had to be laid upon the altar of the automobile.

Here's all that's left of the former (heated) wading pool:

The rest of the pool is intact and looks fairly clean & clear, and the surrounding palms are much bigger now. The only thing missing are the guests splashing around and carrying on...

As I mentioned, some of the Western livery on the Old Frontier remains...

Bars have been added to the windows so that the Office can double as a jail for desperados, and you'll also note the survival of the 'Frontier' roof trim:

Actually, the roof trim looks kinda Swiss to me...But maybe the settlers who founded this place were from there?

Lastly, the Anaheim/Santa Barbara Resort-No really it's a great idea, just tile everything and make it mission-y-Conforming sign retains some of the Cowboy feel found on the original:

Well Pardner, that's about it.

Let's always be thankful to those hardy lodging industry pioneers who paved the way for us way back when, for without them we'd still be spending the night in our Town & Country station wagons and would not have the benefit of Single or Family Units, Kitchens or Free TV (not to mention thermostatically controlled heat).

Take care until next time...

Bowling, Food & Motels - Ala La Habra, CA

2008-11-29T13:31:00.000-08:00

Lest November pass without a post, I offer you a quick trip down to Southern California to check out a short stretch of Whittier Boulevard in La Habra.

Let's begin with a quick game of ten-pins at La Habra 300 Bowl. Here’s the Great Sign beckoning the community at large to pause for recreation:

The obligatory attached coffee shop (w/boomerang roofline of course):

After bowling, we’ll want to visit the 13th frame for some refreshment:

Inside the lounge, the interior is typically dark and relaxing…

Now, let’s have dinner at the charming little Chicken Box. I hear they have excellent broasted chicken:

After all that food, I’m tired…So let’s pick a place to bed down for the night. It’s either the La Habra Motel…

Or the trusty old Hyland:

How long has the Hyland been around you ask?

Well…Long enough to have a pre-Kodachrome postcard:

My apologies (as usual) for the infrequent posts.

Take care!!!

South Lake Tahoe/Stateline CA - Part 2

2008-10-19T14:55:00.000-07:00

As autumn approaches, recalling the leisure times of the summer just past (or one of its elder cousins), can cheer the soul of those who like to live in the realm of Vacationland whenever possible.

Now, as the trees on my street begin to boast a golden hue, let’s slip back into summer mode and return to the highway for a second excursion over the Sierra’s and into the scenic Lake Tahoe basin for some much needed R&R…

First stop: The Ponderosa Motel

These happy visitors are enjoying some sunny afternoon time by the unfenced pool. What a great place to catch some rays and contemplate anything-but-work!

40 years on, the Ponderosa is now the Alpine Inn & Spa. The pool has gained a fence along the way and that ugly box thing by poolside is the 'Spa' referred to in the new name. Not much was shaking during my early morning visit.

No problem finding the exact spot of the earlier 'then' shot on this one... Once I climbed the stairs to a certain small second floor balcony area, I knew I'd struck paydirt.

A man named Hoyt was good enough to let us know that he and Betty were doing "...well as can be expected." during their cold, October 1969 visit. Betty had to take some kind of pills (Ludian?) to get right, but things were good "...so far." I sure hope things turned out well for the both of them...

The small detail shot is worth a quick comparison:

The Monte Carlo once brought a bit of the Riviera to California:

But many of today's Xtreme crowd couldn't find that place on a map, so a new concept in motel lodging was needed. Now, after spending the day shredding on their snowboards or punishing the trails on mountain bikes, they can return to 'The Block', a place that caters to those who enjoy such 'sick' pursuits.

How would you like to see Augie & Margo at Harrah's in the mid 1960's? It looks like they were opening up for Harry Belafonte, who probably sang 'Banana Boat Song' to tipsy but well dressed patrons:

A little farther up Highway 50 on the California side, but you get the idea:

Harvey's Wagon Wheel Casino (to the left) was at the epicenter of an odd, bombing-extortion plot in the Summer of 1980. A six-ton, chock-full-o'-dynamite bomb was detonated inside the main tower in late August of that year; here is a clip of the explosion.

I can recall watching the live coverage on local Channel 3. Having seen the Harvey's Casino many times during our yearly visits, watching 'live' as the bomb was set off by the demolition team was curious viewing to be sure.

Getting back to the motels; do we find ourselves in Southern Cal?

Here we are at Malibu...Motel that is...I like those finned beauties parked to the right:

The Malibu stayed on task for many years, until the owners shook off the Malibu moniker and adopted a more wink-wink attitude. I now present to you the newly remodeled "Secrets Inn":

Recreation in the Lake Tahoe area can be as simple as renting a paddle boat and taking to the cold, clear waters of the lake itself. Here's a shot of the shoreline looking back:

And here's two of my favorite people bringing the boat back into port:

Going out to breakfast is a great way to start a vacation day, and the best place to do this when in Tahoe is at Heidi's...

This fine old breakfast/coffee shop is situated right next door to the former South Tahoe Travelodge:

The motel is still going strong as a Howard Johnsons, while Heidi's is still welcoming those with an appetite---

Heidi's was a bit more plain back in the day, but the owners added to its Swiss charms over the ensuing decades until this classic, inviting look was achieved:

Sure, Heidi's is right next door and the food is great, but doubts about staying at the HoJo remian until you check out the status of the pool:

It'll do...But if you're up for an adventure, how about stepping back in time at the Green Lantern?

Oh yes...The Lantern is still lit and continues to ply its trade in the heart of the old motel row:

...And the Monaco Inn was (and is) at the corner of Stateline and Pine Blvd.

I'm happy to see that the giant pine tree is still doing well, right in the middle of the complex:

To get to Tahoe you have to hit the road, and from past travels many of you will know that the Mother Road in these parts is Highway 99.

Just south of Lodi on this fine old thoroughfare, the Victor Fine Foods meat packing plant sits dormant. Closed since December 1991, its towering sign still draws the attention of passing motorists such as I:

Check out the classical foot soldier, champion of the Victor Brand:

Some terrific photos of this sign can be found here and here:

I'll be back with Tahoe Part 3 next time, which should include stops at Magic Carpet Mini Golf and the abandoned Tahoe Amusement Park.

Happy Travels---

South Lake Tahoe/Stateline CA - Part 1

2008-09-21T18:31:00.000-07:00

Many summer travelers will set out to visit the places they’ve always wanted to see, while at least an equal number will return to familiar stomping grounds and spots that brought fun and escape in youthful times past. South Lake Tahoe in California has been a destination spot for over a century, and continues to lure both old and new timers to its clear, cool waters and pine-lined shores.

Thankfully, many of the original inns and motels that have been offering shelter to winter skiers and summer swimmers alike for decades remain (for now at least), intact and in-business. I paid a visit to these historic environs this past July…

Bordering Nevada, the area known as Stateline is home to dozens of older establishments that have been around long enough to see tastes change and fads fade. In part one of several, let’s focus on these local and classic motels and see how they are getting along, as another crop of summer folks pass through in search of smiles, sun, and that warmly coveted escape from everyday life.

First stop: The Paradice Motel:

Still going strong today, the Paradice sits next door to another old inn that is being refurbished...

The sign retains its neon charms, but I'm sad to see that the "pair-a-dice" topper has gone the way of penny slots:

The Tahoe Sahara Motel was open for business back in the 70's and for some time before that that I'm sure:

This old motel still looks vital and has definately 'gone green' as is popular these days:

Nothing could have been more fun than pulling into the Ravenwood Motel in your '57 Imperial Crown, pointing the kids toward the pool, and settling back with a highball while plotting what shows and dinner adventures await you and the wife...

This fantasy is still possible today, but the gas is really gonna cost you! The now-Avalon Lodge looks like a good option for my next trip:

I visited a number of motels for which I do not own a corresponding 'then' picture for; rather than ban them until I've run across the appropriate postcard, I'll bring them to you now and hope that the postcard shows up 'down the road'...

Here's the Capri, with original neon-bedecked late 50's sign featuring an elegant font that should still be in use today (if I owned a motel chain):

The pool is just over the wall above and looks dippable to me:

Here's the Tahoe Queen basked in afternoon shadows:

A sign closeup was mandatory on this one:

The Blue Jay was a happy place to pull off the road when it was young...

The name remains the same and it looks like there is plenty of room for us based on the sign and empty parking lot...I wonder why?

After all, a refreshing swim in a pool surrounded by pines awaits:

Wait...Something doesn't look quite right from here...Better get a closer look...

Thought so...

For you old timers who remember when the world was only in black and white, I present for your approval---The Royal Motel:

I didn't think I'd find the Royal still standing and doing business...But I did!

It now rents by the month and goes by the old-world handle of 'Ski Haus Lodge'.

While travelling to Tahoe on Highway 50, I stopped in Fresh Pond, seeking a feel for the old times when Henri's Restaurant fed and gassed up eager fortune seekers on their way to Harvey's and Harrah's:

Being uninformed of its demise, it was a shock to find that Henri's was no longer in-situ. Thankfully, the sign remains (why do signs always remain after the buildings are torn down?):

A closeup of the sign in question:

Well, that does it for Part 1 of the Tahoe series. Sorry (yet again) for the long break between posts...

Take care all---

Touring The Gold Country - Mariposa, CA

2008-07-31T20:48:00.000-07:00

California history has always been a favorite hobby of mine, and I especially enjoy visiting the areas where gold fever took root way back in 1848. The Highway 49 town of Mariposa is one such place…

We’ll begin our tour at one of the oldest buildings in town, The Schlageter Hotel. This hotel was the best in town way back in 1864:

Today, the Schlageter still stands at its appointed corner, although it no longer takes in boarders. The building now houses an assortment of gift shops and a wine tasting bar.

Next stop is the Freemont Motel which is a bit farther up the street. Also advertising Tourist Homes and Cabins with Steam Heat, the Freemont no doubt fit the bill for many of those taking the “…all year Highway to Yosemite National Park”.

The Freemont Motel front desk office became a real estate office some time back. My guess is that business isn’t so good right now, so maybe they're renting those old motel rooms out as apartments for local gold miners:

My reason for being in Mariposa centered around a family trip to the same Yosemite National park that the Freemont was touting back in its day. The entrance to Yosemite via Highway 140 includes a massive natural rock entrance just past the ranger station. Here’s what it was like back in the 1940’s:

Funny how rock never seems to age:

How was Yosemite? Was it as pretty as I’ve heard? I think so:

And speaking of Highway 140, this ambassador of the muffler trade holds court in the sleepy town of Planada. His current dominion is a roadside farming museum:

Now let’s get back to Mariposa and its environs...

Near the town of Midpines (about 5 miles East of Mariposa), the former Hyatts Rancho Motel once vied for its share of the tourist trade:

Today, the site is kind of dumpy looking and the economy-minded Muir Lodge offers rooms with little frills…

The pool was empty even though it was warm enough to warrant a filling:

At the Midpines Country Store, I stumbled upon a 70’s style telephone booth. These things used to be everywhere when I was a kid. I can remember standing by such booths while at parks or at the movies, hanging around while my brothers made calls to the folks for a pick-up.

I even found an identical twin back up the road in Mariposa. What do you bet that both were installed by the same phone crew around the same time? Seeing these brought back the days of summer and soft serve…

And where do you think the locals would find their soft serve in this mountain town? Why, at the Frost Shop of course!

Alas, the Frost Shop passed into history around 2004. However, I’m happy to report my consumption of one delicious (if a tad greasy) hamburger during a pit stop way back around the turn of the century:

A bit up the road, we pass the Mariposa Motel:

Now known as the Mariposa Lodge, business appears strong and the grounds are well kept:

Mariposa is a friendly town, and I heartily recommend a visit to anyone passing by on their way to view Yosemite’s wonders.

The locals have had a tough time lately with wildfires, not to mention a rockslide that temporarily closed 140 a couple of years back. They will appreciate your patronage and you’ll have a relaxing time besides. My family and I are heading back in mid September, and we'll once again tie up our 150 horses at the KOA in Midpines.

Next time out, we’ll tour the alpine shores of beautiful Lake Tahoe and take in the vintage collection of motels that still grace the area known as ‘Stateline’.

See you in a few weeks…

Motel 6 & Sambo's Restaurant - Bakersfield, CA

2008-07-04T12:59:00.000-07:00

Just off the 99 on Oak Street in hot and dusty Bakersfield, a pair of 1960's relics soldier on...

First up, here is one of the original units in the now ubiquitous Motel 6 chain. Motel 6 was founded in 1962 when the original room charge was $6.60. Although their rates have risen some since then, they still provide basic rooms to those travelling on a budget.

Here is the Bakersfield '6' back in its heyday:

It looks like a warm day and the parking lot is full. It's hard to tell, but there appears to be a late 1950's Imperial parked in the lot, judging by the Flight-Sweep deck lid in evidence.

The pool is located right in the front, just off of the street. You'll also notice that there was a Sambo's restaurant located right next door; we'll stop in for a cup of coffee in just a few minutes...But first, let's visit the Motel 6 today:

The 40 year old building looks pretty much the same. It was never stylish to begin with, but then again Motel 6 wasn’t known for setting standards in the field of design. The place is now an Econolodge and rooms are advertised for $39.96 for a single. That’s a 600% increase from its Motel 6 glory days!

OK, OK…I know you’re wondering about the pool area. You ask if the remaining water is all green and slimy? Is it filled in with dirt and pushing up weeds? Or paved over for additional parking perhaps?

Can weary travelers still be refreshed after a long and tiring drive?

Well, I'm happy to report that the answer to that last question is a big fat ‘Yes!’

The whole pool area doesn’t look bad at all; and there’s even a life-ring to throw in for those having trouble staying afloat:

I’ll take the second floor room closest to that overhanging balcony. I like to be able to keep an eye on the kids while they work up an appetite for dinner…

Which will be served next door at Sambo’s!!!

And what a fine sight this place must have been when twilight was setting in and dinner was calling. Of course, pancakes were available 24-7 and I’d bet that the Club House was cut in quarters as is proper. Steaks and Chicken were also in the spotlight.

Featuring a rakish and somewhat different design than the Sambo’s in Modesto, this beautiful building calls out to passers by (and those staying next door) quite effectively.

When I was seeking out this location, I expected to find very little remaining of the original design. Boy was I surprised to see how much was still intact:

Let’s take a tour around the former Sambo’s, which now moonlights as Lamina (“Plate” in Spanish) and serves down-home Mexican food to hungry Vaquero’s…

Here’s a side view:

You don’t see decorative fencing like this anymore (but I do):

I’m not sure if they chose the six letter ‘Lamina’ so that they could still use these fanciful oval billboards to display the name...But I'm glad they did!

And if you stare at the sign without blinking for a minute or so, the letters will slowly change to: S-A-M-B-O-S ...

This area would have held lush landscaping, as befits a family restaurant. Looks like they lost a palm tree sometime back:

And here’s a close-up of the terrific rock work, which is one of my favorite elements of coffee shop design circa the Space Age. Too bad the ‘Sambo’s’ lettering no longer floats in front of the rough hewn surfaces (is that corn growing in the flowerbed?):

Why don’t they design buildings with angles like these anymore?

Lastly, a parting glance at the former Sambo’s; still standing out on site and holding up well some 40 years on:

Thanks for visiting. As before, please accept my apologies for the infrequent posts…I’ll try to do better going forward.

Happy travels!

Driftwood Motel & Sambo's Restaurant - Modesto, CA

2008-05-17T16:04:00.000-07:00

Here in the Central Valley, old remnants of the former Highway 99 snake through the downtowns of dozens of small towns. These sometimes forlorn stretches often showcase the roadside survivors from bygone days.

Typical of these hangers-on would be the Driftwood Motel in Modesto…

Back in the day, The Driftwood was:

"Modesto's finest motel only 3 minutes from downtown. 31 beautiful units with individually controlled refrigerated air-conditioning, and thermostatically-controlled heat. Room Phone - free TV - heated swimming pool. Sambo's Restaurant adjacent."

Here it is during happy times in the early-sixties:

Today, a pretty sky belies the fact that times have left the Driftwood in a state of decline. Many lodgers now call this place home for weeks at a time.

The pool looks refreshing and would have helped sooth yesteryears lodgers when the temperature hits 106 in Modesto as it did today (May 17th). I can clearly remember the sight of that large Driftwood sign while driving on highway 99 as a child. At night, the multi-colored neon was an impressive sight indeed:

The pool serves no purpose now; and a fence keeps the curious from hurting themselves:

And what became of Sambo’s you ask?

Well, mid-century coffee shop style is hard to hide. The original building still serves food and what-not under the banner of “The Ranch – Bar & Grill”:

It looks like they’ve attempted to add a bit of authenticity with the covered wagon entry piece:

I spoke to the owner of a business on the other side of 9th street (who by coincidence used to work at the Driftwood 30+ years ago), and he warmly remembered the days when more than just the downtrodden stopped at Sambo's and the Driftwood…

P.S.: All apologies for the big break between posts. I appreciate all three of you checking back (you know who you are). Take care and I’ll try to be back again soon…

Capitola, California

2008-03-05T23:02:00.000-08:00

Let’s pay a visit to the charming beach town of Capitola, California...

Located just south of Santa Cruz, Capitola has many charms to boast of, including a fine selection of shopping and restaurants to peruse, as well as some quaint old motels. And it's worth mentioning that the local pizzeria, Pizza My Heart, puts out the finest thin-crust pizza you'd ever care to taste. All in all, Capitola is an enjoyable, if crowded, place to spend a leisure day by the sea, provided you can find a parking spot.

Our first stop is the Shoreline Apartments, circa 1959. Note the traffic circle and lone palm tree. The multicolor fiberglass chairs on the balcony add a nice touch of color.

When this postcard was snapped, a ten-pin alley by the name of Arcadia Gardens Bowl sat just across the street and behind the Shoreline. It was close enough to hear the crash of the pins on a day when the leagues were busy. At other times the crash of surf would dominate the soundscape just as it does today.

Speaking of today, the Shoreline is still covering the waterfront. The lone palm tree maintains its vigil in the traffic circle and a flock of local seagulls looks to make new friends among the happy patrons on restaurant row. The trim remains turquoise and the Shoreline continues to be a fine place to spend the summer. Alas, the Arcadia Gardens building is now home to an odd assortment of shops, art galleries and an ice cream parlor...but no bowling...

Let’s leave the apartments now and walk behind the restaurants lining the beach. Soquel Creek exits the mainland here and a fine old railroad bridge crosses nearby. Here on an old concrete jetty, a postcard photographer from the early 70's caught time in a bottle:

In 2008, the jetty remains in situ while river life has become a bit more fancy…

Turning to our left, we see the picture postcard Venetian Hotel, located directly on the beach. I've never stayed there but I hear it's a kick.

Directly above the colorful roof line of the Venetian, a bit left of center, you can spy our next destination, the L-D Motel Apartments.

The L-D was and is a unique, triangular shaped motel which boasts excellent views of the ocean and village. A nice interior shot of a typical early 70’s motel room is included so that you can see what you’ve been missing:

Today known as the Harbor Lights Motel, this friendly inn is still beckoning beachcombers and other dreamers to park their cares for awhile and breathe deep of the ocean air. I spent a night here in 1999 and can vouch for its charms.

The building is largely unchanged, right down to the small office at the point. I’m sad to see that the salmon paint scheme has gone the way of the fifties, but at least they kept that color for the stairs…

Surf Motel - Fort Bragg, CA

2008-02-02T17:32:00.000-08:00

Let's take a quick trip back to the rugged Northern coast of California, where we saw the Noyo River Bridge and Harbor some months back.

Welcome to the Surf Motel, located just one mile South of Fort Bragg on scenic Highway 1. The Surf boasted of the following:

54 Modern Units
King & Queen Beds
All Color Television
Guest Dial Phones

And if that wasn't enough, this motel's sun drenched site featured ample parking and the coveted approval of the American Automobile Association. The AAA is held in high regard by this motor tourist, due chiefly to my having been rescued on occasions too numerous to count.

The towering sign features the familiar wavelength representation of sand and sea rendered in light blue and white, and capped smartly by a stylish nautical flourish complete with seahorse medalion and fork of Triton...

Now here's the Surf Motel on a crisp May morning in 2007. A fresh coat of paint was being applied to the aging sign, which lost its fanciful crown a number of years ago. The sign retains some of its original impact due to its size, but clearly it was much more impressive when its adornments and detail remained in place.

I apologize for not getting the angle quite right on the 'now' picture, I had forgotten to take along my 'then' postcard when I visited Fort Bragg last year. I don't make it up there too often so I decided to go with what I had rather than shelve it until I could re-take the shot.

See you on the road---

Polynesian Motel - Anaheim, CA

2008-01-05T19:17:00.000-08:00

A favorite activity of mine during my family's twice-yearly visits to Disneyland are the times when I hit the road in the afternoons to explore the Southern California cityscape. Armed with postcard clues, I seek to identify the remains of old motels and other businesses, with the goal of documenting their latter days and seeking some connection to the excitement and optimism often portrayed on the paper advertisements of the Kodachrome Age.

One such place hides in plain sight along Brookhurst Street in Anaheim. The Polynesian Motel has enjoyed a 50 year run, providing comfortable lodging for the budget-conscious traveler.

Here's our first shot of the Polynesian, taken when it was newly minted. Note the jaunty sign, which once broadcast the siren song of the South Seas to the adventurous. The rest of the motel appears to be rather scant with the Tiki accoutrements, but I guess we can give them a pass based on the strength of the sign itself.

One should take note of the phone booth at the base of the sign. These are getting very hard to find these days, as cell phones have become as common as these glass boxes once were.

I'd love to slip back in time to around 1960, and be standing in this booth around 9:00 PM on some warm summer evening, with the neon lighting of the sign filling the booth with color and movement. Perhaps I'd call a cab to take me down the road to Linbrook Bowl* where I could roll a few frames and mix with the locals in the Kopa Room*.

Now here's the Polynesian in December, 2007. The grounds are well maintained and the paint is fresh, but the excitment and lure of the place has suffered with the removal of it's neon beacon.

Another card from the late 60's focused on the pool scene (sorry for the poor quality).

The pool area as it is today:

One more thing: if you decide to step out for a smoke, make sure you grab a matchbook when you pass by the office.

Unfortunately, it looks like they skimped a bit on these, as the cover depicts a generic roadside motel, not the exotic Polynesian...

* This locally-treasured alley and lounge still exist, and will be the focus of a not-to-distant future post.

Capri Motel - Modesto, California

2008-01-01T18:21:00.000-08:00

Back in my hometown of Modesto, The Capri Motel was located at 602 McHenry Avenue.

From the back of the 1950's postcard:

"28 large comfortable units, individually heated and air conditioned. Wall-to-wall carpets. Free TV. Room Phones. Off the Highway - Quiet and restful."

The highway mentioned would be Highway 99, which in the 50's still rumbled through the heart of the old city via 9th Street. It would be at least 10 more years before the inevitable by-pass was constructed.

The Capri is looking sharp with its AAA approval and inviting pool, and a room reservation could be made by dialing LAmbert 4-7374. I'd like that second story room just to the right with the balcony...

I visited the Capri in late November, 2007. And I'm happy to report that the old place is looking well.

It's now an Economy Inn and features (from the phone book ad) "Luxurious Air Conditioned Guest Rooms With Desk In Every Room". It seems quaint that air-conditioning is still one of its boasts, as A/C is a rather common 'luxury' in this day and age.

You'll notice that they've built a fence around the pool. It amazes me how pools were left completely open in the old days. Of course, back then people didn't sue for everything like they do today.

Kona Motel - Anaheim, CA

2007-12-02T15:23:00.000-08:00

Back on the streets of Anaheim, here we find the Kona Motel located at 331 North Brookhurst Avenue. With its island-inspired sign and 'A' frame entrance, the Kona is a proud member of that now-fading fraternity known as the Tiki motel.

The Kona was born sometime in the late 50's, when the exotic feel of genuine Tiki was often invoked by restaurants and motels to add mystery and allure to the dining and lodging experiences of mid-century Americans.

Here's a postcard view of the Kona Motel when the paint was still fresh:

Though time has passed, the Kona remains a local fixture, if only in the hearts of those who call it home. Located near Brookhurst Junior High School and abutting Dad Miller Golf Course at its rear, the Kona maintains its island look as best it can.

And if you're staying by the night or even by the week, the kidney shaped pool is still available for a refreshing swim. You can even hang your trunks out to dry on the convenient clothesline.

For those of you clamoring for a close-up of the sign, here you go. Two concessions to Father Time are evident: the font used in 'MOTEL' is no longer island-ish(?) and I'm almost positive that live flame no longer emits from the torch that rises above the 'Kona' plaque. Still, this is a fine example of the apparently lost art of creative motel signage.

Milt's Coffee Shop

2007-11-17T18:50:00.000-08:00

A really good coffee shop can be a godsend while travelling the miles of asphalt that are collectively known as Highway 99. Milt's Coffee Shop in Bakersfield, California is just such a place. Located at 5220 Olive Drive, Milt's has been serving delicious down-home delights since the early 60's.

The back of this mid-sixties postcard invited passers by to "See our collection of State Plates". I'm happy to report that, as of 2007, this collection is still in place.

Well, Milt's has seen a bit remodeling over the years. In fact, the original building has lost it's mid-century stylings altogether. Once inside it's doors, however, one is delighted to find a vintage interior that still sports both booth AND counter service in most of it's original livery.

I recommend the roast beef and mashed potatoes, topped off with a peanut butter milkshake. My whole family recently voted to make a stop at Milt's one of our family traditions when travelling to and from our hometown and the golden magnet that is Southern California...

Oh, but what happened to that wonderful sign you ask? Well, the good news is that the original sign was saved and now presides at the edge of the property, where Highway 99'ers can be properly lured into the cozy confines of good ol' Milt's.

Happy travels to all of you...

Dad and John Through Time

2007-11-03T19:35:00.000-07:00

One of my parents first homes was on Campus Way in Modesto, California. This was near Modesto Junior College where my father (and my brothers and I) would later graduate. My oldest brother John was only a few months old when his picture was snapped, held in the loving arms of our father Ed. The original shot was taken in late 1959. I revisted the old neighborhood in 2003 and found it largely unchanged. I was even able to locate the very place where my mother Karin must have stood when she took the original shot.

One of my goals when I came up with this blog was to present a rear-view mirror to the slowly fading past. As these pictures from yesterday fade and yellow, I believe that their place in time still exists as long as the memory remains in those who once passed them by. Keeping those we love alive after their passing is only possible when we permit ourselves the quiet times when reflection can bring us home.

Tulare Dust

2007-10-20T00:46:00.000-07:00

Once "The best cup of coffee on 99", Perry's Coffee Shop on Paige Avenue has seen some 40 years slip past it.

This ad from a 1965 Vacationland magazine served as a heads-up to those who travelled North or South on the 99 in route to Walt's little park in Anaheim:

Next door, the Tulare Inn soldiers on as a forlorn ambassador of a time that was...

Where was once a neatly kept lawn, only dried chaff remains on exhibit:

A refreshing pool now hosts only echoes from the past...

"The Tulare dust, in a farm boy's nose...wondering where the freight train goes.

Standin' in a field by the railroad track, cursin' the strap on my cotton sack.

I can see Mom and Dad with shoulders low, both of them pickin' on a double row.

They do it for a livin', because they must...that's life like it is in the Tulare Dust..."

---Merle Haggard---

Tradewinds Motor Hotel - Fresno, CA

2007-09-26T16:30:00.000-07:00

Here's a fun scene from the 60's...elderly folks (and a few young ones) being served by the poolside at "The Tradewinds" in Fresno, California.

"The Tradewinds is centered in the heart of California's vacationland at the Gateway to Yosemite, King's Canyon and Sequoia National Parks. We are a Master Hosts Motor Hotel with 112 delightfully air conditioned rooms overlooking a lovely garden patio and heated swimming pool."

Ahhhh...the good old days...

As of 2007, the Tradewinds was still holding out against Father Time, but things weren't looking up.

When I paid a visit, the only guests appeared to be a busload of German tourists who had recently made their arrival. Sure, they appeared content enough, and the pool was a big hit on this 100 degree afternoon. But signs of decline and decay were everywhere: the vegetation was overgrown, a broken fence gate was left wide open to the street, and the parking lot was deserted.

At that time, The Tradewinds was part of the Best Western chain, an affiliation since terminated. The Tradewinds now faces the future as an independent motel, a tough task in today's nationally-branded lodging market.

My picture was taken from a second story balcony, the same perch used by the postcard artist I believe.

Another sure sign of trouble was the status of the Gaslight Room Steakhouse: CLOSED. This colorful space is now used only for the free breakfast and coffee service. The brick barbecue pit, rustic fittings, and carving stations remain. Wagon wheels and other Western flotsam adorn the neglected walls.

Likewise, the former cocktail lounge was shuttered to the German masses. After their long journey from who knows where, they probably could have used the services of this mid-century watering hole.

At least the sign still stands proudly...

Of additional note, The Tradewinds was once affiliated with the Ray Douglas' Pine Cone chain, with sister restaurants in Merced, Modesto (my home town), San Jose & San Leandro. Pictured below is the former Modesto location.

Note the similar signage and the steakhouse name: Branding Iron. This was the original name used at The Tradewinds also. Why or when the name was changed to the Gaslight Room remains a mystery.

All the Pine Cones are now gone, but the Modesto outpost soldiers on as an Acapulco Mexican Restaurant & Cantina.

Noyo Harbor - Fort Bragg, California

2007-09-08T18:08:00.000-07:00

Let's journey now to California's rugged North Coast...

Highway 1 skirts this beautiful area and crosses over the Noyo River Bridge near Fort Bragg.

Back in the 1950's, "Fishing is one of the main industries of the Fort Bragg area, and commercial fisherman, as well as sportsman, find this the most abundant locale in Northern California."

In May of 2007, Noyo Harbor is still a bustling place for those seeking adventure on the choppy seas just beyond the river's mouth. However, the most advertised industry now seems to be whale watching.

Comparing the two shots, it's clear that "new" construction has filled in a few of the gaps, but happily the harbor remains a charming backwater. The bridge was widened recently, and traded it's steel-girder frame for one of reinforced concrete.

This perspective is from the shoulder of the narrow road that winds down to the harbor.

The two story building located on the left side at the rivers edge, is Silver's At The Wharf, a comfortable watering hole where the food is equaled only by the friendly service. If you ever drop anchor in these parts, make sure you pay them a visit. I recommend the Noyo Fish Tacos and Silver's Dungeness Crab Cakes.

You can find them on the web at: http://www.silversatthewharf.com/

Motel 6 & Century Bowl

2007-09-01T17:18:00.000-07:00

Returning from Anaheim, let's exit Highway 99 and rest for a bit at the Motel 6 in Merced. This chain was started in 1962 and this unit was probably one of the first 50 or so. Unlike a modern Motel 6, this one featured an attached restaurant and bar.

After 40 years, the pool area layout hasn't changed much. This veteran lodge now flies under the Super 8 banner but otherwise looks to be a survivor. The very tall Richfield gas station sign remains but now pushes the Vallero brand.

Just down the road, the long-shuttered Century Bowl awaits it's fate. This classic alley used to be a friendly haunt for those seeking a little ten-pin fun, and for now the great sign continues to call out to passers-by. But the fate of this urban relic appears all but certain. Does Merced really need another Walgreens? Perhaps, but it will be sad to see this old palace torn apart and hauled away...leaving one final 'open frame' on the community scorecard.

Westward Ho 7 Seas Motel

2007-08-20T22:15:00.000-07:00

A short walk across the street from the Little Boy Blue, we now find ourself at this identity-challenged, seemingly budget-minded motel. I guess the name would appeal to those with a nautical leaning while drawing in the Old West type at the same time.

Either way, it looks like the same anti-swimming vibe is present. Glassy smooth pool surface, adults fully dressed and little children packed away somewhere. The pool doesn't close until midnight so perhaps they'll be diving in when they get back from the park. Let's hope they took the free shuttle; it would be quite a walk from here.

The WH7S Motel was located at 415 West Katella Avenue, in between the Rip Van Winkle and Samoa motels. Every room featured a complimentary Philco COLOR TV and direct dial telephones.

About thirty years later, I visited the now Super 8 Motel to see what had changed. I'm happy to report that time has been kind to the grounds and pool area. In fact, it looks like this picture could have been taken the morning after the original.

The Little Boy Blue Motel --- Anaheim, CA

2007-08-17T00:44:00.000-07:00

Here's the Little Boy Blue Motel located at 416 West Katella Avenue, near Disneyland. Among the many amenities available at this modern motel were:

Orthopedic Mattresses
Tubs and Showers in Each Room
Electric Air Conditioning
Heated Pool

Once you've had a chance to enjoy these modern features, It was comforting to know that the LBB was "Around the corner from Disneyland and Melodyland." and "Close to Knott's Berry Farm, (Movieland) Wax Museum, new Angel Stadium and beach areas."

In this postcard it looks like two middle aged couples are enjoying the pool area, but apparently forgot to pack their swimsuits. One might ask: Where are the kids and why isn't anyone in the pool?

Fast-forward 40 years. Once again, No child is present on this Summer afternoon. The colorful waterslides have been removed, and it seems like the adults have checked-out as well. Maybe they spent the day at Knott's Berry Farm?

The Little Boy Blue is one of the few Disneyland-area motels to retain both it's original name and layout. It still shares a pool with the adjacent Riviera (formerly Pyramid) Motel, and the funky diamond-shaped entrance archway continues to stand watch...

Travelers Inn Restaurant

2007-08-14T14:16:00.000-07:00

Located on the old alignment of Highway 99 (Union Avenue) six miles South of Bakersfield, The Travelers Inn Restaurant was a welcome rest stop for those who were "on the road" in the 50's.

The Coffee Shop was open 24 hours a day and the dining room was REFRIGERATED. For those who were thirtsy, Cocktails were available from 9 A.M. to 2 A.M.

Les & Helen Rose were the hosts and if you wanted to know what the special was before you made the trip, you could dial FAirview 4-2786.

Many hot and dusty days have passed since Les & Helen held court at the Travelers. As the local demographic has changed, so has the focus of many an old eatery along this forgotten stretch of road. Now known as La Villa, the former coffee shop serves up tasty tacos, tortas and burritos. Carne Asada and Al Pastor are the forvorite fillings and an ice-cold Jarritos Pina or Corona Light goes a long way to slake the local thirst.

The building itself appears to be in original, albeit well-worn condition. Even the cement road surface hasn't been paved since the fifties as the same cracks appear in each picture. As is common for August, the late afternoon temperature hovered around 104.

Fly Casting Pool - La Palma Park Anaheim

2007-08-09T12:27:00.000-07:00

Anaheim's other large public space is La Palma Park. Back in 1957, this fly-casting pool gave the locals a place to practice their casting without having to leave town. Not sure how many people used this pond for that purpose but sometime between then and now another use was found for this space; a use that speaks more to the Southern California lifestyle...

That more appropriate use was (of course): PARKING!

Here's the fly-casting pool in June, 2007, sporting a glassy-smooth blacktop surface. Probably not the best spot to practice your casting anymore. Some of the parks' current residents were nearby, wandering what was so interesting about this spot that I needed to take a picture...

Anaheim City Park / Pearson Park

2007-08-07T16:03:00.000-07:00

Here's a 1957 postcard featuring the Water Lily Pond in Anaheim City Park. The young lady admiring the lilies is now over fifty years old. She must look quite different today. How about the pond itself?

Here we are in June, 2007. The City Park is now Pearson Park having had it's name changed by city resolution in April, 1960. Other than the name, things are much the same around the old pond. Even the river rock shoreline remains as it was; many of the individual rocks can be identified between the shots.

Stay tuned...We'll visit the former Fly Casting Pool at Anaheim's La Palma Park next time here on WalterWorld.

World Famous Tagus Ranch

2007-08-05T14:46:00.000-07:00

The Tagus Ranch is located 4 miles North of Tulare on Highway 99 in the heart of California's great Central Valley. This dusty locale once featured banquet rooms, a coffee shop, cocktail lounge, gift shop and a deluxe motor hotel. Later on in life it was the home of a live music theater where country and western acts would put on a show for the locals. But that was another time and place...

Today, the Tagus lies abandoned, a state it's been in for over 15 years. For sale banners have come and gone and the gradual deterioration has escalated in recent years. The adjacent motel is hanging on by a thread...a home to long term occupants and those with little means.

Palm Motor Lodge

2007-06-27T21:21:00.000-07:00

Located two miles North of Disneyland on Harbor Blvd, the Palm is a survivor indeed. The motel predates the Magic Kingdom but managed to corral it's share of visitors, including Doris Huffman of North English Iowa. She arrived by bus and stayed a week before making her way home via Canada. This was back in August 1961. Today's modern guests are more of the extended-stay, down-on-their-luck types. Here's how she looked on June 20th, 2007:

If you're in the mood for a swim in the heated pool, you'll need a time machine:

And a final sign shot from the street---

Time For A Quick Cup

2007-06-09T17:02:00.000-07:00

Up the road from Anaheim (about 260 miles on Highway 99), let’s stop for a cup of coffee and maybe some steak fries. This is Farnesi’s Restaurant and Coffee Shop in Madera, CA.

It’s large, free standing sign can be seen from quite a ways off. Farnesi’s has been open since the early 60’s, serving quality food and drink to those traveling down California’s golden Central Valley.

Here’s the great sign from a mid-60’s postcard and a picture from the present day. Though largely intact, some of the playfully-fonted mini-signs pertaining to the adjacent motel (which still stands) have gone missing (‘TV’, ‘Phones’, etc.) Oh well, at least the classy cocktail glass remains…

The restaurant building itself looks largely the same, but has been enlarged somewhat over the years:

Next time you’re motoring through Madera, make sure you patronize this fine old relic of the road. After a couple o’ highballs and New York Steak & Eggs, you’ll think its 1966 all over again… (And you’ll probably want to get a room!)

A Schusssing We Shall Go...

2007-06-01T18:01:00.000-07:00

Back in Anaheim, we now visit the Alpine Inn. The Alpine was one of the earliest of the motels that sprouted up to surround Disneyland after it’s 1955 opening. It was/is located at 715 Katella Avenue near the now closed South entrance to the old Disneyland parking lot. Each room had it's own phone and free TV, and also featured refrigerated air conditioning. This postcard shot dates from the late fifties based on the cars in the lot.

Here’s the Alpine in 2004. The sign now conforms to the new Anaheim Resort code, but this old motel is definitely still kicking. I’m not sure when the well-themed snowy roof and log siding was added, but one could argue that the Alpine looks better now than when it was new some fifty years ago. I think I’ll dial KEystone 5-2186 and book some rooms for my annual June trip...

The Shadow Of Your Smile - Sandpiper Lodge

2007-05-20T16:21:00.000-07:00

Now let’s travel about 300 miles north of Anaheim, on good old Highway 99. Here we are in Merced, at the site of that cities newest motel, The Sandpiper. Not sure if the inspiration came from the Burton-Taylor film of the same name or was simply a wistful reference to the beautiful Pacific Ocean which was (and still is) only about 200 miles to the West.

The Sandpiper had rooms for the budget-conscious as well as luxurious suites for those better off. Each room was “…elegantly appointed and magnificently furnished and equipped with individually controlled heat and refrigeration.” There was a “…Bridal Suite, Conference Room, and Background Music”..? Phone RA 3-1034 to reserve your room.

Aahhhh…What a (non) difference 45 years can make. The Sandpiper still stands in most of its original livery, the pool is still heated, the parking lot had some fairly new cars parked in it and business appears to be OK. Only one thing I’m not sure of: do they still have Background Music?

Bahia Motel - Beach Blvd

2007-05-08T20:57:00.000-07:00

Sorry for the long gap between posts. Here we go:

Here’s the last word in luxury and convenience: ---The Bahia Motel---
This exotically-themed motel was located at 821 Beach Boulevard in Anaheim.

With thermostatically controlled heat, pool, kitchen units, adjacent restaurants and recreation room, the Bahia was a great place to stay when visiting Knott’s Berry Farm, Disneyland, Movieland Wax Museum and Marineland of the Pacific.

Things were looking good. Of course, that was in the early 60’s…

Now it’s the early 70’s and the foliage has matured. It’s still the Bahia and business is good.

Now we’re in the early 80’s and New Wave is all the rage. The Bahia is new too; it’s now the Razzmatazz…kinda catchy and ‘hip’ huh?

So 40 Summers have come and gone. Here we are at the now-Covered Wagon Motel in 2005. It looks like they removed most of the Palms and the other greenery. Still want to stay there?

Make sure to call ahead and make reservations!

Brookside Winery/Vineyard Company

2007-04-20T05:45:00.000-07:00

Here we have a mid-sixties postcard shot of the Brookside Winery located at 711 Brookhurst Street in Anaheim, CA. The back of the card states:

“Featuring over 100 different wines, champagnes, and brandies. Brookside Winery’s lovely Anaheim Cellar No. 5 and it’s tasting room, located midway between Disneyland and Knott’s Berry Farm, is…one of California’s oldest wineries – established in 1832.”

The card was dated March 31, 1972. The caption reads:

“Vi and I stopped here today. We had a taste of wine and I bought some to bring back. Archie stayed home.”

Must have been a fun place to taste a bit o’ vino during a break from the parks. I'll bet Archie was envious when he found out how much fun Vi and whoever had!

Now it's June, 2005. The winery is long gone and the building is available to lease. Last use: nightclub. The parking lot was littered with trash and the vines and other such landscaping had pretty much taken over. Over the past 40 years the surrounding area has crept in on the old gal; the motel to the right consumed what had been a formal auto entrance and parking area. Hopefully someone will take charge of this turretted, towered, and vaulted-ceiling endowed piece of Anaheim history and return it to it's former function...but I doubt it will happen...

On a side note, Brookhurst Bowl is located just a short distance North on Brookside. I highly recommend a visit to these vintage lanes. The coffee shop has great food and the Kopa Room is still going strong. I'll have some pictures of the unique late 50's sign complete with giant rotating bowling pin in a future post.

Happy travels---

Charter House / Anaheim Plaza Hotel Pool

2007-04-08T18:42:00.000-07:00

Ahhh... the good old days...

Here's the olympic sized pool at the Charter House Hotel on Harbor Blvd in Anaheim, located across the street from the old Disneyland sign that many of us remember. As a guest of the Charter House, you would "Enjoy spacious comfort in modern sleeping rooms." When you get hungry, slip over to the Rib Room for "...fabulous roast beef, dancing and entertainment nightly." The CH opened up around 1960(?) with the Saga Motel directly to the North and the Fantasy Motel next door to the South. What a great place to stay during your Disneyland visit!

Fast forward to 2004, and my family and I are staying at the Anaheim Plaza Hotel. Looks kinda similar huh? Well, this is that same olympic size pool and those are the same spacious, flowered grounds that first greeted guests when Ike was in office. We usually stay at this fine place when we visit the Big D. The Rib Room is long gone and the nightly entertainment can be a bit sparce unless someone is getting married in one of the meeting rooms by the pool. This is the last olympic sized pool in the Anaheim area and was once the rival of the one at the Coral Club on the grounds of the Disneyland Hotel on the other side of the Magic Kingdom.

Two For My Brother

2007-04-03T22:25:00.000-07:00

Here's a nice bit of time travel.

My family took an annual trip to Lake Tahoe nearly every Summer of my childhood. A few Summer's ago I tagged along with my brother's family and we re-created a few of the old shots.

The first pair were taken on the front deck of the cabin we always stayed at which was owned by my Dad's business partner, Ron. The top shot is from 1978, bottom 2002:

The area around the cabin had been wide open in the 70's...The neighborhood had filled in considerably by our return. We used to ride 3-wheelers out on the open sand around the cabin.

The second brace was taken in front of a Wells Fargo monument located along Highway 88 heading East towards Jackson, CA. Highway 88 was one of the two routes we alternated on when making the journey to South Lake Tahoe, the other being Highway 50. The top shot is from 1974, bottom 2002:

Though many years had passed, revisiting these youthful places brought back the old times as if new again. The familial connections made over time via shared places and concurrent experience are forged of strong material indeed...

Until next time ---

Howard Johnson's Caravan Inn - Then And Now

2007-03-25T22:14:00.000-07:00

Here's the pool area of the former Caravan Inn (now Arena Inn) in Anaheim. From a 60's postcard:

Now, here's the same view from June, 2006. There was a city warning on the pool gate regarding a violation of the health code.

That ladder on the second floor appears to have survived these past 40-odd years. A few of the balconies were filled in and the cool signage is long gone (anyone no anything about the ice rink located nearby?) There was once a coffee shop facing the pool and a cocktail lounge to boot.

This tired old inn appears to have slipped into monthly rental mode and looks ripe for the bulldozer...

Calico Motel Then And Now

2007-03-22T14:57:00.000-07:00

Here's a 1960's postcard view of the Calico Motel at 500 Beach Blvd in Buena Park(?)
And here it is today (June 2006):

Because motels produced postcards for advertising and souvenir use, tracking their decline over time isn't too difficult. Comparing the postcards sunny view with the run-down condition of today is a poignant affair.

The pool was located in front of the office and had been filled in by the time I visited. A filled in or drained/mucked up pool is a good indicator of where an old motel is in it's lifecycle.

Gullywhumper Still Sinking

2007-03-20T22:32:00.000-07:00

Anyone have a paddle...or a bucket maybe?

Ever since this former Keel Boat was anchored she's been slowly taking water and no one seems to care. This KB was the one involved in the accident that triggered the final closure of the ride. Glad I got to ride it back in the 70's.

From June, 2006