PlanJam!From your screen to the scene

Catalina Island is a location which is not only aesthetically pleasing but has a fascinating history behind it as well. In fact, some may be surprised to find that its history dates back quite a few centuries.

The Discovery

The first people to inhabit Santa Catalina Island were individuals of the Gabrielino/Tongva tribe. These Native Americans traveled back and forth to the island from the mainland for the purpose of trading items such as soapstone. The first European to discover Catalina Island was Juan Rodriguez Cabrillo in 1542, a Portuguese explorer who was on his way to Spain and when coming upon the island believed he had found the country. The island was rediscovered in 1602 by a Spanish explorer named Sebastian Vizcaino who came up with the name which is used today.

Post-Discovery

Catalina Island saw many visitors in the years that followed its discovery. Smugglers, pirates, and even otter hunters from a number of different countries used the land to benefit their businesses. After losing most of the population to a widespread epidemic, the 1860’s saw a resurgence of population due to a type of gold rush – although the benefits were not reaped due to lack of gold on the island. In 1864, the federal government cleared the island of people and it wasn’t until around the early 1900’s when the island became a tourist destination and the population surged as a result.

The city of Avalon came into existence around the beginning of the 20th century and from that point forward the development was great. Hotels, restaurants and entertainment facilities were constructed and turned Catalina Island into a wonderful tourist destination. During portions of the 20th century, the Chicago Cubs used the island for spring training as William Wrigley, Jr. had part ownership of the island. In addition, during the 1900’s pottery and tile was made on Catalina and the main airport on Catalina Island was constructed in 1946. The island saw a brief shutdown in the mid 1900’s due to military use during World War II but opened back up shortly thereafter and saw an influx of tourism which is evident to this day.