Rediscovering San Diego

National City Depot Visit 11/7/17 Jim Price did an excellent job of explaining the history of the Depot, which was built in 1882. Three years later, the first intercontinental trains arrived. We were fortunate to have him and all the dedicated volunteers take time to spend their day sharing this special place with us. Ride the Silver Line Vintage Trolley (similar to the one pictured here) from the 12th and Imperial Station, which continuously loops by the Convention Center, the Gaslamp Quarter, Seaport Village, The Midway and many other places. Jim really scored a coup when he was able to get Port Commissioner Allen Tate to lead the discussion at the historic Railcar Plaza. The building was opened especially for our class. I did not know that National City was the second oldest city in San Diego County. The Plaza houses the original 1887 No. 1 Car, part of the region's first commuter-type train dedicated to passengers, including the legendary Wyatt Earp.  We w...

Visit to Leo Carrillo Ranch 10/3/17 Visit to the historic park was fun! Registered as a California Historical Landmark, the property, buildings and gardens are a tribute to Leo Carrillo's beliefs about conserving beautiful spots, historic sites and notable buildings. Hacienda  An abundance of wildlife live here on the 27-acre parcel that has been preserved from the original 2,538 working rancho. Home to a plentiful array of birds, Leo brought peafowl to the ranch in 1937 and the peacocks continue to inhabit the ranch. Be sure to pick up a botanical guide at the Visitor Center to help you identify the many species of vegetation that grace the park, including the spectacular Agave americana. Agave americana Open to the public as a City of Carlsbad park, you can learn about the fascinating life of Leo, not only about his many successful show business endeavors, hosting famous people at his bar-b-ques and branding parties, but as an early environmenta...