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A Brief History of Avalon

Nestled just 22 miles off the Southern California coast lies Avalon, the only incorporated city on Santa Catalina Island. Known for its charming harbor, rich cultural tapestry, and old-Hollywood glamour, Avalon is a unique blend of natural beauty and storied past. From ancient indigenous civilizations to chewing gum magnates and movie stars, Avalon’s history is as colorful as the island sunsets that frame it.


Ancient Beginnings: The Tongva People

Long before Europeans set foot on the island, it was home to the Tongva people, who called it Pimu or Pimugna. These Native Americans lived in harmony with the land and sea, using canoes to travel between the mainland and the island. Their culture and spiritual connection to the island remain an important part of Catalina’s legacy.


European Discovery and Changing Hands

The first European to record seeing the island was Juan Rodríguez Cabrillo in 1542 during a Spanish expedition. Over the centuries, the island shifted from Spanish to Mexican control, and eventually to the United States following the Mexican-American War. Throughout the 19th century, Catalina saw varied uses—from ranching and mining to smuggling, whaling, and otter hunting.


The Birth of Avalon

In 1887, real estate developer George Shatto purchased Catalina Island with visions of a coastal resort. He laid out plans for a town and named it Avalon, inspired by the mystical isle in Alfred, Lord Tennyson’s poetry. Shatto built the first hotel and started promoting the area as a seaside retreat. Though his efforts were short-lived due to financial issues, the foundation for a resort town had been set.


Avalon circa 1895. Photo from the CA State Library.
Avalon circa 1895. Photo from the CA State Library.

The Wrigley Legacy

One of the most influential figures in Avalon’s history arrived in 1919 when William Wrigley Jr., the chewing gum magnate, acquired a controlling interest in the island. Wrigley invested heavily in infrastructure, tourism, and beautification. He built the Catalina Casino—a stunning Art Deco landmark that opened in 1929 and became the island’s cultural centerpiece.


The Casino in 1935. Photo from the CA State Library.
The Casino in 1935. Photo from the CA State Library.

Wrigley also brought the Chicago Cubs, which he owned, to Catalina for spring training. This helped put Avalon on the map as a celebrity hotspot and boosted its profile nationally.


Hollywood’s Island Playground

In the early 20th century, Avalon became a favorite retreat for Hollywood stars. The likes of Charlie Chaplin, Clark Gable, and a young Marilyn Monroe (who lived on the island briefly while married to her first husband) graced its shores. The island’s unique landscapes made it a popular filming location, particularly during the silent film era.


Marilyn Monroe in Avalon in the 1940s.
Marilyn Monroe in Avalon in the 1940s.

Wartime Transformation

During World War II, Catalina was closed to tourism and repurposed for military training. Troops were stationed on the island, and infrastructure was adapted for wartime needs. After the war, Avalon slowly re-emerged as a destination for leisure, though the island never quite recaptured the glamour of its Golden Age.


Avalon Today

Today, Avalon is a charming coastal escape that balances tourism with conservation. In a significant gesture, the Wrigley family eventually deeded 88% of Catalina Island to the Catalina Island Conservancy, ensuring that the island’s natural habitats and historical significance remain protected.


With its scenic harbor, historic casino, and laid-back charm, Avalon continues to enchant visitors—offering a glimpse into a California of yesteryear while preserving the tranquility and beauty of island life.


Avalon today. Photo from the Catalina website.
Avalon today. Photo from the Catalina website.

Below are pictures of Catalina over the years that were featured on our Instagram page here.


South Beach looking towards the ferry terminal - 1970. Photo from Chad Shahin on Flickr.
South Beach looking towards the ferry terminal - 1970. Photo from Chad Shahin on Flickr.
Crescent Ave. aka Front St. seen from the Green Pleasure Pier - 1970. The Chamber of Commerce building on the right now houses the Catalina Visitor Center while the Walthah Clarke store is now the Avalon Grille. The building just visible at top right with the terra cotta roof is the Hotel Vista Del Mar. Photo from Chad Shahin on Flickr.
Crescent Ave. aka Front St. seen from the Green Pleasure Pier - 1970. The Chamber of Commerce building on the right now houses the Catalina Visitor Center while the Walthah Clarke store is now the Avalon Grille. The building just visible at top right with the terra cotta roof is the Hotel Vista Del Mar. Photo from Chad Shahin on Flickr.
Looking across Avalon Bay towards the Casino - 1950s. Photo from Flashbak.
Looking across Avalon Bay towards the Casino - 1950s. Photo from Flashbak.
A seaplane and ferry in Avalon Bay - 1970. Photo from Chad Shahin on Flickr.
A seaplane and ferry in Avalon Bay - 1970. Photo from Chad Shahin on Flickr.
Marilyn Monroe on Metropole Ave. - 1943.
Marilyn Monroe on Metropole Ave. - 1943.
Mariachi band and visitors on Front St. - 1963. Photo by Walter Leporati.
Mariachi band and visitors on Front St. - 1963. Photo by Walter Leporati.
In wetsuit and flip flops - 1958. Photo by Ralph Crane.
In wetsuit and flip flops - 1958. Photo by Ralph Crane.
Bobby Piercy skateboarding during the Catalina Classic - 1977. Photo by Warren Bolster for SI.
Bobby Piercy skateboarding during the Catalina Classic - 1977. Photo by Warren Bolster for SI.
Crescent Ave. aka Front St. - 1950s. The Hotel McRae & Hotel Edgwater are still with us today.
Crescent Ave. aka Front St. - 1950s. The Hotel McRae & Hotel Edgwater are still with us today.
A speedboat docking at the ferry - 1950s. Photo from Flashbak.
A speedboat docking at the ferry - 1950s. Photo from Flashbak.











10 Kommentare


Gast
28. Juni

You've beautifully captured Avalon's evolution from sacred land to stardom. Trusted best dietician in indirapuram, Best dietitian in Vasundhara, Best dietitian in Vaishali— your wellness guide. Curious about what I’ve been writing? Visit my blog. Are you tired of endless dieting fads that don’t work? Struggling with weight management, PCOS, thyroid issues, or just trying to eat healthier? You're not alone—and the good news is, the right dietitian can make all the difference. Whether you're based in Indirapuram, Vasundhara, or Vaishali, there are expert nutritionists near you who offer personalized guidance tailored to your body and lifestyle.


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Gast
28. Juni

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Rahul Kirola
Rahul Kirola
26. Juni

Beautifully written! Learning about Avalon's past made me appreciate its charm even more. Definitely a place worth visiting. If you're as curious as I am about solutions blogs, I strongly suggest taking a look at my latest post. If you're searching for how to configure your AT&T router or simply need to access the admin panel, knowing the correct atnt ip, at&t ip, or the ip address for att router is essential. The default IP allows users to log in and manage their network settings effectively. You can check the official page for atnt ip, at&t ip, or the ip address for att router for more information and step-by-step guidance offered by Callroutersupport.

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Rahul Kirola
Rahul Kirola
26. Juni

The connection with Marilyn Monroe and the Chicago Cubs makes Avalon’s story even more unique. So much history packed in one place! If you're as curious as I am about solutions blogs, I strongly suggest taking a look at my latest post. When using a premium VPN like NordVPN, it can be frustrating when connection issues arise or you're trying to make sense of their various subscription options. One of the most reported problems users face is when NordVPN stuck on connecting, especially during high-demand hours. Another important area of concern is choosing the right NordVPN monthly plan that fits your budget and security needs. For these kinds of issues, Callcontactsupport provides expert solutions that ensure your VPN stays reliable and your subscription…

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