Tag: travel

Pics inside Old Town San Diego’s restaurant museum.

A variety of dried food hangs from the ceiling. The kitchen of the Commercial Restaurant museum in Old Town is a place where visitors are transported back in time.
A variety of dried food hangs from the ceiling. The kitchen of the Commercial Restaurant museum in Old Town is a place where visitors are transported back in time.

There are dozens of cool things to see in Old Town San Diego State Historic Park. I’ve barely scratched the surface so far with my blog.

For example, there’s a small free museum right next to the central Plaza de Las Armas called Commercial Restaurant. A rather dull name, but a very interesting place jam-packed with history!

The small recreated restaurant shows what life was like in the mid 1800s, back when San Diego was downright tiny. The Commercial Restaurant is comprised of two rooms: one contains the dining area, the other, the kitchen. Originally called the Casa de Machado y Silvas, the house was built by José Manuel Machado and given as a wedding gift to his daughter María Antonia, and her husband, José Antonio Nicasio Silvas. The simple adobe building was converted into a modest restaurant by its owners in the early 1850s. Today it stands as one of the five historic adobes in Old Town San Diego.

I’ve provided a bit more info in the photo captions!

Photo shows the Commercial Restaurant museum, which is free and open to the public in Old Town San Diego State Historic Park.
Photo shows the Commercial Restaurant museum, which is free and open to the public in Old Town San Diego State Historic Park.
La Casa de Machado y Silvas in Old Town San Diego was turned into Commercial Restaurant, later renamed Antonia Restaurant.
La Casa de Machado y Silvas in Old Town San Diego was turned into Commercial Restaurant, then later renamed Antonia Restaurant.
Bienvenidos. Come inside. See the recreated Commercial Restaurant. Established in 1854 within the Casa de Machado y Silvas, a home built in 1843. Museum open 10-5.
Bienvenidos. Come inside. See the recreated Commercial Restaurant. Established in 1854 within the Casa de Machado y Silvas, a home built in 1843. Museum open 10-5.
The dining area of the Commercial Restaurant. This is was what it was like to eat in style in the mid 1800s. Many exhibits along the walls recall the history of old San Diego.
The dining area of the Commercial Restaurant. This is was what it was like to eat in style in the mid 1800s. Many exhibits along the walls recall the history of old San Diego.
Art on one wall depicts the grinding of corn. Other nearby maps and graphics show how food is related to our city's history.
Art on one wall depicts the grinding of corn. Other nearby maps and graphics show how food is related to our city’s history.

In the mid 1800’s, when New England travelers arrived by ship to Old Town, they sought out a dining establishment serving meals like they would find at home, including stews, soups, crackers, bread and cow’s milk. Over the years, exposure to native Kumeyaay cooking influenced the European diet and became integrated into the region’s cuisine.

As a captive labor force under the Mission system, the Kumeyaay performed their tasks using traditional tools and methods of preparation as a way to continue their cultural identity.
As a captive labor force under the Mission system, the Kumeyaay performed their tasks using traditional tools and methods of preparation as a way to continue their cultural identity.
Display case contains artifacts used in the daily life of San Diego residents almost two centuries ago.
Display case contains artifacts used in the daily life of San Diego residents almost two centuries ago.
Shelves in the Commercial Restaurant contain old jars, goblets, bowls, bottles, plates and more.
Shelves in the Commercial Restaurant contain old jars, goblets, bowls, bottles, plates and more.
It was 1948 when a secret hiding place was discovered in one of the adobe's window wells. Within the niche were two documents relating to life of an early Old Town San Diego resident.
It was 1948 when a secret hiding place was discovered in one of the adobe’s window wells. Within the niche were two documents relating to life of an early Old Town San Diego resident.

Historical documents discovered by archeologists hidden in the Casa de Machado y Silvas shed light on the life of San Diego resident Allen B. Light. He was also know as the “Black Steward”. Allen arrived in California during the 1830s, aboard the sailing ship Pilgrim, the same vessel that brought Richard Henry Dana Jr. who would later write Two Years Before the Mast.

One document was “a sailor’s protection”, which proclaimed Light was a “coloured man, a free man, and a citizen of the United States of America”. The second document was his commission from the Mexican Governor of Alta California to investigate illegal sea otter hunting along the coast.

A peek into the recreated kitchen next to the dining room. Cooking was rather primitive in early San Diego.
A peek into the recreated kitchen next to the dining room. Cooking was rather primitive in early San Diego.
A table full of peppers and vegetables. What life was like many generations ago, in the kitchen of Old Town's Commercial Restaurant museum.
A table full of peppers and vegetables. What life was like many generations ago, in the kitchen of Old Town’s Commercial Restaurant museum.

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Photos aboard Master and Commander’s HMS Surprise.

Elegant stern of HMS Surprise, one of many fascinating ships owned by the Maritime Museum of San Diego.
Elegant stern of HMS Surprise, one of many fascinating ships owned by the Maritime Museum of San Diego.

It’s Christmas. I wasn’t planning to blog today. But this afternoon I became a new member of the Maritime Museum of San Diego! (Having lived for 15 years just a short walk from the museum, it’s about time!)

Naturally, I couldn’t wait to visit several of the amazing ships.  The Maritime Museum of San Diego has one of the finest and largest collections of historical ships in the world!

If you’ve ever watched the movie Master and Commander: The Far Side of the World, then you’ll probably recognize the HMS Surprise. The beautiful tall ship, upon which many scenes were filmed, is in the museum’s collection. And I took a bunch of photos today!

Becoming a member of the Maritime Museum of San Diego is going to be awesome. Among other great perks, I can visit any of the ships free for an entire year. I can sit in the elegant enclosed passenger deck of the Steam Ferry Berkeley and read and write whenever I please! Right out on beautiful San Diego Bay! How cool is that?

I bet some of you might really enjoy membership, too!  I’m told they are looking for volunteers to help sail their new Spanish galleon replica San Salvador!

For more information, please visit the Maritime Museum of San Diego website.

HMS Surprise in some morning sunlight.
HMS Surprise in some morning sunlight.
The ship you are about to board was originally built as a replica of the British 24-gun frigate Rose of 1757. HMS Rose played a role in the American Revolution and was sunk in Savanna harbor in 1779.
The ship you are about to board was originally built as a replica of the British 24-gun frigate Rose of 1757. HMS Rose played a role in the American Revolution and was sunk in Savanna harbor in 1779.
Detailed model of the HMS Surprise, which is the only operating replica of an 18th century frigate in the world. The ship was used in the filming of Master and Commander starring Russell Crowe.
Detailed model of the HMS Surprise, which is the only operating replica of an 18th century frigate in the world. The ship was used in the filming of Master and Commander, starring Russell Crowe.
Visitor to the San Diego Maritime Museum pretends to steer the amazing tall ship, which is docked on the Embarcadero near the historic Star of India, in the background.
Visitor to the San Diego Maritime Museum pretends to steer the tall ship HMS Surprise, which is docked on the Embarcadero near the historic Star of India, in the background.
View of the ship's main deck and lower rigging from the quarterdeck. A portion of San Diego's skyline and the County Administration Building are visible.
View of the ship’s main deck and lower rigging from the quarterdeck. A portion of San Diego’s skyline and the County Administration Building are visible.
Cannon projects from hull of HMS Surprise, which is a replica of a 24-gun frigate of the Royal Navy, based on 18th century British Admiralty drawings.
Cannon projects from hull of HMS Surprise, which is a replica of a 24-gun frigate of the Royal Navy, based on 18th century British Admiralty drawings.
Looking upward at the three masts, furled sails and other complicated rigging.
Looking upward at the three masts, furled sails and other complicated rigging.
Photo through ropes of the nearby Star of India, the world's oldest active sailing ship, also part of the Maritime Museum of San Diego.
Photo through ropes of the nearby Star of India, the world’s oldest active sailing ship, also part of the Maritime Museum of San Diego.
The ship's bell. Originally named the HMS Rose, the ship was re-registered as HMS Surprise because of her role in the film Master and Commander.
The ship’s bell. Originally named the HMS Rose, the ship was re-registered as HMS Surprise because of her starring role in the film Master and Commander.
Below deck there are many fascinating exhibits, which show what life was like aboard a frigate. Other displays recall the filming of Master and Commander.
Below deck there are many fascinating exhibits, which show what life was like aboard a frigate. Other displays recall the filming of Master and Commander.
Pick the right kind of shot. The Surprise carried a variety of projectiles, each suited for different purposes.
Pick the right kind of shot. The Surprise carried a variety of projectiles, each suited for different purposes.
Artistic depiction of activity below deck during an engagement with the enemy. Operating the cannons was a complicated, dangerous duty.
Artistic depiction of activity below deck during an engagement with the enemy. Operating the cannons was a complicated, dangerous duty.
Feeling seasick? Visit the surgeon. Getting sick at sea was very serious not only for the ill sailor, but also for the entire crew.
Feeling seasick? Visit the surgeon. Getting sick at sea was very serious not only for the ill sailor, but also for the entire crew.
Exhibit in HMS Surprise recalls the ship's doctor in the movie Master and Commander: The Far Side of the World. Dr. Stephen Maturin was also scientist and naturalist.
Exhibit inside HMS Surprise recalls the ship’s doctor in the movie Master and Commander: The Far Side of the World. The fictional Dr. Stephen Maturin was also a scientist and naturalist.
Most of the crew slept below the gun deck in hammocks. Tightly-packed swinging hammocks figured memorably in the visuals of the movie Master and Commander.
Most of the crew slept below the gun deck in hammocks. Tightly-packed swinging hammocks figured memorably in the visuals of the movie Master and Commander.
Ship's Biscuit, also known as Hard Tack, was easy to make and preserve, and became part of the staple diet for British and Spanish mariners on their long voyages in the Pacific.
Ship’s Biscuit, also known as Hard Tack, was easy to make and preserve, and became part of the staple diet for British and Spanish mariners on their long voyages in the Pacific.
Chickens, geese and ducks were carried on board as live food. Officers enjoyed eggs. Fresh meat was reserved for the officers and those sick with scurvy.
Chickens, geese and ducks were carried on board as live food. Officers enjoyed eggs. Fresh meat was reserved for the officers and those sick with scurvy.
In this area near the stern there is a remote station for steering when the ship is propelled by its twin diesel engines. In 2007, HMS Surprise was restored to sailing condition.
A remote station used for steering the ship when she is propelled by her twin diesel engines. In 2007, HMS Surprise was restored to sailing condition.
One of several photos on display from the movie Master and Commander: Far Side of the World. Russell Crowe played the role of Captain Jack Aubrey.
One of several photos on display from the movie Master and Commander: The Far Side of the World. Famous actor Russell Crowe played the role of Captain Jack Aubrey.
Distinctive figurehead often seen in the popular movie. It now graces San Diego's waterfront.
Distinctive figurehead representing the Greek goddess Athena often seen in the popular movie. It now graces San Diego’s waterfront. UPDATE! I’ve been told it actually represents Boadicea, queen of the British Celtic Iceni tribe who led an uprising against the conquering forces of the Roman Empire.
Photograph of the HMS Surprise as evening approaches. One of many wonderful ships that visitors can board at the Maritime Museum of San Diego.
Photograph of the HMS Surprise as evening approaches. One of many wonderful ships that visitors can board at the Maritime Museum of San Diego.

UPDATE!

A new exhibit called Man-of-War opened on HMS Surprise in May, 2018. There are many new signs around the ship, and the captain’s great cabin is now open to the public. (I intend to blog about the great cabin separately.)

Here are additional photos. Read the captions for explanations about life aboard British fighting ships from that fascinating era.

A new exhibit called Man-of-War aboard the HMS Surprise features new signs describing life aboard an 18th century British frigate. Prepare for Battle!
A new exhibit called Man-of-War aboard the HMS Surprise features new signs describing life aboard an 18th century British frigate. Prepare for Battle!
HMS Surprise was originally the HMS Rose, built in Nova Scotia in 1970. It was purchased by Twentieth Century Fox to be used in the movie Master and Commander, starring Russell Crowe.
The ship was built as replica of the HMS Rose in 1970. It was purchased by Twentieth Century Fox to be used in the movie Master and Commander, starring Russell Crowe, and was subsequently renamed HMS Surprise.
Following maritime tradition, the ship has retained its original bell.
Following maritime tradition, the ship has retained its original bell.
Looking at the newly redecked quarterdeck of the HMS Surprise. The rest of the main deck will be restored as well.
Looking at the newly redecked quarterdeck of the HMS Surprise. The rest of the main deck will be restored as well.
An officer on the quarterdeck would issue commands to the sailor manning the wheel, which controlled the rudder at the ship's stern.
An officer on the quarterdeck would issue commands to the sailor manning the wheel, which controlled the rudder at the ship’s stern.
The Disney Wonder cruise ship is seen beyond the capstan. HMS Surprise was used in the filming of the movie Pirates of the Caribbean: On Stranger Tides.
The Disney Wonder cruise ship is seen docked in San Diego beyond the capstan. HMS Surprise was used in the filming of Disney’s movie Pirates of the Caribbean: On Stranger Tides.
Many hands turned the capstan to raise or lower the anchor.
Many hands turned the capstan to raise or lower the anchor.
Ordinary sailors relieved themselves at the ship's bow. Hence the name head.
Ordinary sailors relieved themselves at the ship’s bow. Hence the name head.
This was a sailor's bathroom!
This was a sailor’s bathroom!
A man-of-war could remain at sea for many months and travel more than 150 miles per day.
A man-of-war could remain at sea for many months and travel more than 150 miles per day.
On the gun deck of HMS Surprise, replica twenty-four-pound cannons have names like Spit Fire, Beelzebub and Bulldog. Larger than what a frigate would carry, these were used for dramatic effect in the movie.
On the gun deck of HMS Surprise, replica twenty-four-pound cannons have names like Spit Fire, Beelzebub and Bulldog. Larger than what a frigate would carry, these were used for dramatic effect in the movie.
A display demonstrates aspects of a warship's gun and its operation.
A display demonstrates aspects of a warship’s gun and its operation.
Diagram depicts how a six-man gun crew would load, aim and fire different types of shot.
Diagram depicts how a six-man gun crew would load, aim and fire different types of shot.
Sailors lived in their own specialized world, with familiar customs, rules, routines and expectations.
Sailors lived in their own specialized world, with familiar customs, rules, routines and expectations.
The complex often stressful operation of a man-of-war required strict discipline. Punishments included flogging and gagging.
The complex often stressful operation of a man-of-war required strict discipline. Punishments included flogging and gagging.
The English diet at sea was rather simple and predictable. Lots of biscuit, beer, pease, oatmeal and butter. Pork and cheese, too.
The English diet at sea was rather simple and predictable. Lots of biscuit, beer, pease, oatmeal and butter. Pork and cheese, too.
Cooking in the galley was done in calm weather. The Brodie Stove was designed for use on wooden ships where dangerous fire must be avoided at all costs.
Cooking in the galley was done in calm weather. The Brodie Stove was designed for use on crowded wooden ships where dangerous fire must be avoided at all costs.
A rat has found its way into the ship's food supply.
A rat has found its way into a ship’s food barrel.
The Royal Navy issued hard biscuits made of flour and water that were stored in sacks for months at a time. Weevils and maggots were a constant problem.
The Royal Navy issued hard biscuits made of flour and water that were stored in sacks for months at a time. Weevils and maggots were a constant problem.
Costume worn by character Midshipman Lord William Blakeney in the movie Master and Commander.
Costume worn by character Midshipman Lord William Blakeney in the movie Master and Commander.
Unlike the captain who in his great cabin lived in comparative luxury, lesser officers, like the crew, made due with cramped quarters.
Unlike the captain who in his great cabin as a gentleman lived in comparative luxury, lesser officers, like the crew, made due with cramped quarters.
Midshipmen who sought to become officers learned seamanship and navigation. They had to master many skills required to operate and command a ship.
Midshipmen who sought to become officers learned seamanship and navigation. They had to master many skills required to operate and command a ship.
Instruments used to navigate a ship included the octant and sand glass.
Instruments used to navigate a ship included the octant and sand glass.
The doctor's quarters on the HMS Surprise. A photo shows actor Paul Bettany as the film's character Dr. Stephen Maturin.
The doctor’s quarters on the HMS Surprise. A photo shows actor Paul Bettany as the film’s character Dr. Stephen Maturin.
Hammocks were often used by sailors to store clothing and personal items.
Hammocks were often used by sailors to store clothing and personal items.
A suspended mess table where sailors would eat together next to a hammock on the gun deck of HMS Surprise.
A suspended mess table where sailors would eat together next to a hammock on the gun deck of museum ship HMS Surprise.

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A San Diego gift that will last forever.

Kids play by fountain in San Diego's crown jewel, Balboa Park, one of the world's great cultural treasures.
Kids play by fountain in San Diego’s crown jewel, Balboa Park, one of the world’s great cultural treasures.

Forgive me for posting once again about Balboa Park. It’s one of the world’s great cultural treasures, and I live just steps away!

Are you looking to give a meaningful gift this holiday season? I’ve got an idea that you might consider!

I just received the latest newsletter from the Friends of Balboa Park. They’re the folks who preserve Balboa Park’s legacy for future generations. You can learn about them here.

In the newsletter, they are calling for donations to the Friends of Balboa Park Endowment Fund. One generous donor has offered to match gifts made to the endowment during 2015, up to $500,000. That means every dollar you give before the end of this year will likely be doubled.

If you’ve ever been to Balboa Park, you know how special it is. Please consider giving a donation. To do so, click here.

Over the past hundred years, countless millions of people from around the world have enjoyed visiting the park. They have experienced so much joy. Let’s make sure the next hundred years are just as wonderful.

Plaque at east end of Cabrillo Bridge. To commemorate the foresight and civic wisdom of the founders of Balboa Park this tablet is erected by the people of San Diego.
Plaque at east end of Cabrillo Bridge. To commemorate the foresight and civic wisdom of the founders of Balboa Park this tablet is erected by the people of San Diego.
View of the Natural History Museum from a point near the Reuben H. Fleet Science Center.
View of the Natural History Museum from a point near the Reuben H. Fleet Science Center.
History comes alive in one part of the Casa del Prado's fantastic facade.
History comes alive in one small section of the Casa del Prado’s fantastic facade.
People enjoy the grass near the Botanical Building.
People enjoy the grass near the Botanical Building.
Exploring life and beauty in Balboa Park's reflecting pool.
Exploring life and beauty in Balboa Park’s reflecting pool.
More natural beauty along Sixth Avenue, the west edge of immense Balboa Park.
More natural beauty along Sixth Avenue, the west edge of immense Balboa Park.
A view of the Alcazar Garden from above.
A view of the Alcazar Garden from above.
An artistic face in a fountain by the Old Globe Theatre.
An artistic face in a fountain by the Old Globe Theatre.
The House of Charm and California Tower in silhouette as day ends.
The House of Charm and California Tower in silhouette as day ends.
It's the holiday season. Make a gift to the Friends of Balboa Park, and it will be an enduring gift to the entire world.
It’s the holiday season. Make a donation to the Friends of Balboa Park, and it will be an enduring gift to the entire world.

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Fun photos from a Sunday walk in Balboa Park.

Tourists are shown magic by a fun busker near the reflecting pond in Balboa Park.
Tourists are given a magic show by a busker near the reflecting pond in Balboa Park.

I took a Sunday stroll through Balboa Park. Here are some fun pics!

Duck enjoys the pool of water at the San Diego Museum of Art's outdoor May S. Marcy Sculpture Court.
Duck enjoys the pool of water at the San Diego Museum of Art’s outdoor May S. Marcy Sculpture Court.
Kid with painted face examines Man in White. This cool busker appears to be made of marble. He was entertaining surprised visitors on El Prado.
Kid with painted face examines Man in White. This cool busker appears to be made of marble. He was entertaining surprised visitors on El Prado.
Kid walks through a hula hoop on a stretch of grass.
Kid walks through a hula hoop on a stretch of grass.
Guy shows some people his stuff in the Plaza de Panama.
Guy shows some people his stuff in the Plaza de Panama.
Folks wait on a bench for the free Balboa Park tram, which I call the green caterpillar.
Folks wait on a bench for the free Balboa Park tram, which I call the green caterpillar.
The San Diego Automotive Museum is having a food drive inside their front entrance. Stop on by!
The San Diego Automotive Museum is having a food drive inside their front entrance. Stop on by!
Happy dogs, walkers and a cool guitar-playing musician on a sunny Sunday in San Diego.
Happy dogs, walkers and a cool guitar-playing musician on a sunny Sunday in San Diego.
Who doesn't love colorful, twisted balloons and gigantic soaring bubbles?
Who doesn’t love colorful twisted balloons and soaring bubbles?

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Electric wicker carts returning to Balboa Park!

The electric wicker cart Electriquettes are returning to Balboa Park early 2016!
The electric wicker cart Electriquettes are returning to Balboa Park in early 2016!

The wicker carts are returning to Balboa Park! What fun!

The now famous electric motorized wicker carts were introduced to Balboa Park one hundred years ago for the 1915 Panama-California Exposition. They were called Electriquettes. They were an enormous success!

Starting in early 2016–perhaps February I was told–visitors to Balboa Park will be able to rent the new wicker carts at the San Diego Air and Space Museum. The test program will run for a year, and I hope it’s successful!

I learned that the carts travel at about 2-3 miles per hour, an easy-going speed appropriate for a pedestrian and family-friendly city park. As I understand it, the carts will be restricted to Balboa Park’s core area. They appear super easy to operate–one just steers and applies power! Perhaps the coolest thing is that these vehicles are a reasonably close representation of the original Electriquettes.

Check out the San Diego Electriquettes website, and you can see additional historical photos!

I can’t wait to ride one!

UPDATE!

The Electriquettes began running toward the end of March! I even saw a couple driving about the Plaza de Panama, but didn’t have my camera handy! I’ve learned they can be rented right in front of the Reuben H. Fleet Science Center!

A modern Electriquette is displayed in Balboa Park, in anticipation of its reintroduction. The unique wicker carts will be rented by visitors at the Air and Space Museum.
An Electriquette is displayed in Balboa Park, in anticipation of the vehicle’s reintroduction. The unique wicker carts will be rented by visitors at the Air and Space Museum.
Old photograph of an original Electriquette in San Diego's Balboa Park a century ago. 2015 is the park's centennial.
Old photograph of an original Electriquette in San Diego’s Balboa Park a century ago.
Introduced at the 1915 Panama-California Exposition in Balboa Park, the historical wicker Electriquettes are making a comeback! Cool!
Introduced at the 1915 Panama-California Exposition in Balboa Park, the historical wicker Electriquettes are making a comeback! Very cool!

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Another day to be thankful in San Diego.

Two gulls take a nap in the San Diego sunshine the day after Thanksgiving. Many people were taking a pleasant, easy walk along the waterfront.
Two gulls take a nap in the San Diego sunshine the day after Thanksgiving. Many people were enjoying a pleasant, easy stroll along the waterfront.

It’s the day after Thanksgiving. I just took a walk along San Diego’s Embarcadero. If a picture is worth a thousand words, here are 12,000 words that hint at why I’m thankful every day to live in this beautiful city. I could write volumes and volumes.

A sleepy sea lion doesn't care what sort of crazy, wild-eyed antics his buddy is engaged in.
A sleepy sea lion doesn’t care what sort of crazy, wild-eyed antics his buddy is engaged in.
The Maritime Museum of San Diego's historic ship Pilot crosses the bay as white clouds glow gloriously in a blue sky.
The Maritime Museum of San Diego’s historic Pilot boat crosses the bay as white clouds glow gloriously in a blue sky.
This seagull was watching me taking a walk around Tuna Harbor. I wonder what she thought I was up to.
This seagull was watching me taking a walk around Tuna Harbor. I wonder what she thought I was up to?
A couple snuggled on the rocks by Seaport Village watch a gull take flight from the nearby wall.
A couple snuggled on the rocks by Seaport Village watch a gull take flight from the nearby wall.
A busker magician comedian mime guy gets tied up in inescapable rope during his funny routine at Seaport Village.
A busker magician comedian mime guy gets tied up in inescapable rope during his funny routine at Seaport Village.
Mrs. Claus greets a child and mother at the Seaport Village's East Plaza Gazebo.
Mrs. Claus greets a child and mother at the Seaport Village’s East Plaza Gazebo.
A guy carrying a skateboard ambles past outdoor diners at Sally's Seafood on the Water.
A guy carrying a skateboard ambles past outdoor diners at Sally’s Seafood on the Water.
A helpful tot picks up a photographer's tripod after a photo shoot at Embarcadero Marina Park North.
A helpful tot picks up a photographer’s tripod after a photo shoot at Embarcadero Marina Park North.
A snowy egret checks out a small stone in the Marriott Marina on San Diego's waterfront.
A snowy egret checks out a small stone in the Marriott Marina on San Diego’s waterfront.
Magnificent clouds the day after Thanksgiving on San Diego's Embarcadero. Visible is a Dole cargo ship at the Tenth Avenue Marine Terminal.
Magnificent clouds the day after Thanksgiving on San Diego’s Embarcadero. Visible is a Dole cargo ship at the Tenth Avenue Marine Terminal.
Taking flight in the sunshine.
Taking flight in the sunshine.

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Marriott Marquis and a hidden parklike hollow.

The silvery curving towers of the Marriott Marquis as seen from across Harbor Drive. The cluster of trees on the right contain a wonderful secret.
The silvery curving towers of the Marriott Marquis as seen from across Harbor Drive. The cluster of trees on the right contains a wonderful secret.

I’ve lived in downtown San Diego for years and years. But apparently I still have much to discover. Because I had no idea that the Marriott Marquis on our waterfront has a hidden parklike hollow, in a place where seemingly few people venture.

The quiet green space, with a beautiful lawn, fountain, waterfalls, koi and ducks is partially concealed in an island of trees. You’ll find it set back a short distance from Harbor Drive, at the center of the looping driveway that leads to the Marriott’s front entrance.

There’s no clear footpath to the hollow. But there is a fish food dispenser and a couple of stone benches, and plenty of tranquil beauty. Hotel guests who’d like to unwind and quietly relax have their own secret garden, a place for meditation in the middle of bustling San Diego!

We've crossed Harbor Drive and are walking on the driveway, carefully watching for cars and buses.
We’ve crossed Harbor Drive and are walking on the driveway, carefully watching for cars and buses.
Within the trees there's a tranquil, inviting green space.
Within the trees there’s a tranquil, inviting green space.
Grass, rippling water, and a mixture of shade and sunshine fill a small parklike hollow in front of the Marriott Marquis in San Diego.
Grass, rippling water, and a mixture of shade and sunshine fill a parklike hollow in front of the Marriott Marquis in San Diego.
These ducks are enjoying a small artificial stream among some rocks.
These ducks are enjoying a small artificial stream among some rocks.
Two beautiful stone benches invite meditation.
Two beautiful stone benches invite meditation.
The koi wouldn't mind a bit of food thrown their way!
The koi wouldn’t mind a bit of food tossed their way!
A shining pond reflects the nearby hotel and flagpoles on another perfect San Diego day.
A shining pond reflects the nearby hotel and flagpoles on another pleasant San Diego day.

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A beautiful, hidden fountain forgotten by time.

Looking north at steps that lead down from the quiet, stately Balboa Park Administrative Building Courtyard.
Looking north at steps that lead down from the quiet, stately Balboa Park Administrative Courtyard.

A few weeks ago I meandered about Inspiration Point in Balboa Park. Walking slowly, pausing often, going nowhere in particular. Just seeing what I might see.

At the south edge of the Balboa Park Administrative Courtyard, I stood and gazed down the hill toward a corner of downtown San Diego. You might remember my blog about the courtyard. It’s a place that very few people know about. It’s peaceful, green, a bit of heaven. A place of solitude.

As I stood, I glanced down some steps leading toward a seemingly unremarkable patch of trees. A dusty lot next to the trees contained dozens of parked city Park and Recreation trucks. I wondered to myself if the public was permitted to walk down those steps, into what appeared to be a city work area.

This mysterious path seems to lead to a jumble of trees and a dusty parking lot full of city Park and Recreation trucks.
This mysterious path seems to lead to a jumble of trees and a dusty parking lot full of city Park and Recreation trucks.

Then I saw the blue among the trees. Was that water?

No sign indicated I couldn’t investigate. So I did.

And what I found took my breath away.

Beautiful Bird of Paradise in a section of Balboa Park where the public almost never goes.
Beautiful Bird of Paradise in a section of Balboa Park where the public almost never goes.
Entering a magical hollow in the trees, where a shining blue pool and small fountain await.
Entering a magical hollow in the trees, where a shining blue pool and small fountain await.

The trees seemed a forgotten oasis. At their center shined a lonely pool and a small fountain in the form of a child. The cherub seemed to be holding open the mouth of a carp, or perhaps reading a book–I don’t know.

The strange fountain appeared to occupy a magical place, entirely removed from the surrounding world.

What was it?

An email to the Friends of Balboa Park, an organization whose office is in the nearby Balboa Park Administration Building, provided a bit of information.

The person who replied parks her car in the lot not far from the pool and fountain, and she was completely amazed. She’d didn’t know of its existence.

Ranger Kim, who also works in the building, and who knows volumes about the history of Balboa Park, indicated that the fountain was left over from the 1920’s when the U.S. Navy built a large hospital campus in the immediate area.

In the 1980’s, the land was given to the city in exchange for acreage in Florida Canyon, where the new Naval Medical Center San Diego was built. The buildings from the 1920’s were eventually demolished, except for a Navy chapel, the administration building and its stately courtyard, and a nearby medical library and auditorium building. Today the chapel contains the Veterans Museum and Memorial Center; the administration building contains Balboa Park’s headquarters.

And, of course, magic remains where very few people go: a small fountain that healed spirits at the old Navy complex. A beautiful, hidden fountain forgotten by time.

The lonely fountain is in the form of a child. A few empty benches surround the tiled pool.
The lonely fountain is in the form of a child. A few empty benches surround the tiled pool.
This fountain is left over from the Navy hospital campus built in this area in the 1920's.
This fountain is left over from the Navy hospital campus built in this area in the 1920’s.
The figure seems to be holding open the jaws of a fish, or perhaps reading a book.
The figure seems to be holding open the jaws of a fish, or perhaps reading a book.
A beautiful, hidden fountain forgotten by time.
A beautiful, hidden fountain forgotten by time.

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Elegance and history at downtown San Diego hotel.

This astonishing ceiling impressed San Diego Trust and Savings Bank customers back in 1928, when it originally debuted.
This astonishing ceiling impressed San Diego Trust and Savings Bank customers back in 1928, when it originally debuted.

There are many amazing hotels around San Diego, especially downtown. Several of the hotels are located in historic old buildings. For several months, the San Diego Trust and Savings Bank Building (1928), now occupied by Courtyard by Marriott, has been undergoing outside restoration. A few days ago I noticed that much of the work has been completed, so I decided to go inside the lobby to ask a question or two. And wow!

This was my first time inside the truly eye-popping lobby. Look at the ceiling! The old bank hall, which now welcomes hotel guests, appears almost like the interior of some medieval church, with its arches, vaulted doors, medallions, bronze window grilles and a 32-foot high colorfully painted coffered ceiling. Also reflecting the building’s Italian Romanesque Revival architectural style, the grand interior contains 35 decorative columns with Corinthian capitals, chiseled from 19 different types of marble from around the world. Additionally, the walls, counters, pilasters and floor all feature rich imported marble.

The elegant building, which was constructed with the finest materials available at the time, was designed by notable architect William Templeton Johnson, who is also credited for the San Diego Museum of Art and Natural History Museum buildings in Balboa Park, the Serra Museum in Presidio Park, and the La Jolla Athenaeum. He is also one of the architects responsible for the San Diego County Administration Center.

I was told by a friendly front desk clerk that the restoration involved patching cracks in the building’s exterior. Looks to me like somebody did a good job!

Photo of the San Diego Trust and Savings Bank Building taken from one block east on Broadway. The 14-story structure is topped with a two-story penthouse and cupola.
Photo of the San Diego Trust and Savings Bank Building taken from one block east on Broadway. The 14-story structure is topped with a two-story penthouse and cupola.
Flag on stately exterior of Courtyard by Marriott San Diego Downtown.
Flag on stately exterior of Courtyard by Marriott San Diego Downtown.
Plaque at 530 Broadway. This property has been placed on the National Register of Historic Places by the United States Department of the Interior.
Plaque at 530 Broadway. This property has been placed on the National Register of Historic Places by the United States Department of the Interior.
Elegant bronze and glass entrance to the eye-popping lobby of the Courtyard by Marriott San Diego Downtown.
Elegant bronze and glass entrance to the eye-popping lobby of the Courtyard by Marriott San Diego Downtown.
Stand inside the old bank hall and gaze upward. You'll think your visiting a fantastic cathedral or medieval building in Europe.
Stand inside the old bank hall and gaze upward. You’ll think your visiting a fantastic cathedral or medieval building in Europe.
The welcoming interior of a modern hotel. An historical building smartly preserved and repurposed.
The welcoming interior of a modern hotel. An historical building smartly preserved and repurposed.
I like this cheerful painting of a girl lying on a turtle behind the hotel's front counter!
I like this cheerful painting of a girl lying on a turtle behind the hotel’s front counter!
Yet another cool sight in my neighborhood: downtown San Diego!
Yet another cool sight in my amazing neighborhood: downtown San Diego!

UPDATE!

When I stepped into the hotel during the San Diego Architectural Foundation’s OPEN HOUSE 2017, I learned from a friendly event volunteer that I could head down to see the old bank’s vaults, which are now meeting rooms! Here are some photos!

Map near the ceiling where steps descend to the elevators.
Map near the ceiling where steps descend from the lobby to elevators.
The beautiful arched ceiling near the bank of elevators.
The beautiful arched ceiling near the hotel’s bank of elevators.
Elegant area near the entrance to The Safe Deposit Room.
Elegant area near the entrance to The Safe Deposit Room.
Formidable steel doors in a lower level hallway, leading to The Vault, a very unique meeting room. The San Diego Trust and Savings Bank Building has unusual historic features that hotel guests can enjoy.
Formidable steel doors in a lower level hallway, leading to The Vault, a very unique meeting room. The San Diego Trust and Savings Bank Building has unusual historic features that hotel guests can enjoy.
The Safe Deposit Room in the Courtyard by Marriott San Diego Downtown has a rather unusual entrance! The 1928 Mosler safe door weighs 47,000 pounds! Meetings can be held inside.
The Safe Deposit Room in the Courtyard by Marriott San Diego Downtown has a rather unusual entrance! The 1928 Mosler safe door weighs 47,000 pounds! Meetings can be held inside.

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Sunshine in paradise: a walk about Mission Bay.

The sun glows behind a pair of palm trees at the edge of Mission Bay.
The sun glows behind a pair of palm trees at the edge of Mission Bay.

Late this morning I headed to the Pacific Islander Festival, which took place in the grassy Ski Beach Park near the center of Mission Bay. I’ll get my photos ready and blog about it shortly!

On the way to the festival and afterward, I took a long, leisurely walk. Mission Bay might be the best place in San Diego for an easy saunter through sunshiny paradise.

When I say Mission Bay Park is a paradise, that’s no exaggeration. Grassy parkland, beaches, islands, resorts and marinas are found everywhere you go, whether by foot, bicycle, roller skate, car or boat. Its 4,235 acres make it the largest man-made aquatic park in the nation. Roughly half land and half water, what was originally a lagoon at the mouth of the San Diego River has been transformed into one of our city’s most popular destinations. Especially during the summer.

But summer is over and the crowds have thinned. Perfect for a quiet, thoughtful walk.

Here are a few random pics…

A fisherman rows a kayak near sailboats docked at Paradise Point Resort on Vacation Isle.
A fisherman rows a kayak near sailboats docked at Paradise Point Resort on Vacation Isle.
Mission Bay Park is the largest man-made aquatic park in the United States. Its 4,235 acres is a wonderland of blue water, islands, beaches, resorts, marinas, and tree-shaded grass.
Mission Bay Park is the largest man-made aquatic park in the United States. Its 4,235 acres is a wonderland of blue water, islands, beaches, resorts, marinas, and tree-shaded grass.
Skateboarding over the Ingraham Street bridge between Vacation Isle and Dana Landing. A seagull on every lamp post!
Skateboarding over the Ingraham Street bridge between Vacation Isle and Dana Landing. A seagull on every lamp post!
Looking down from the bridge. It's a quiet Sunday after Labor Day, and few people are about. Mission Bay is a perfect place for a long, sunny walk in San Diego!
Looking down from the bridge. It’s a quiet Sunday after Labor Day, and many benches are empty. Mission Bay is a perfect place for a long, sunny walk in San Diego!
Light reflected on water and shore rocks form a contrast.
Light reflected on water contrasted with shore rocks.
A small pleasure boat glides through South Cove and is ready to pass under the Ingraham Street bridge.
A small pleasure boat glides through South Cove and is ready to pass under the Ingraham Street bridge.
A colorful sail and reflection on smooth water at the Hyatt Regency Mission Bay Marina.
A colorful sail and reflection on smooth water at the Hyatt Regency Mission Bay Marina.
Just fishing on a Sunday by the bridge north of Quivira Basin. It crosses over Mission Bay Channel and leads to nearby Mission Beach.
Fishing on a Sunday by the bridge north of Quivira Basin. It crosses over Mission Bay Channel and leads to nearby Mission Beach.
Broad blue water and folks recreating on Mission Bay. Every type of small boat you can imagine can be spotted on any given day.
Broad blue water and folks recreating on Mission Bay.  Kayaks, paddle boards, peddle boats, sailboats, windsurfers and fishing boats can be spotted on any given day.

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