Author Archives: Gaslamp Foundation

Remnants of the Past

National City and Otay Railroad Depot 1896 5th, 6th & L Streets Architect: William Sterling Hebbard Architectural Style: Mission Revival On December 26, 1886, the San Diego Land and Town Company, a subsidiary of the Santa Fe Railroad, formed the National City and Otay Rail-way. This company was incorporated to design and market the railroad’s […]

Vignettes of John and Lilian Spreckels

Stop by the Gaslamp Museum for a unique historically inspired performance!  Veteran actors Debbie Watts and Tom Dolan will portray John and Lillie Spreckels and present impromptu monologues centering on the first Coronado Flower Show in 1922. Debbie Watts and Tom Dolan wrote and staged the play ‘The Diaries of John and Lillie Spreckels’ which […]

History Talks! Lecture Series: THE PORTUGUESE IN SAN DIEGO

Did you know that San Diego was once the tuna capital of the world? The Shelter Island neighborhood of San Diego was called Tunaville and it was home to many Portuguese immigrants who helped the neighborhood thrive. Learn about Portuguese culture, their influence in San Diego, and the history of our old tuna industry! A […]

From Corpses to Cafes!

When strolling in the Gaslamp, many are awestruck by the architecture and beauty of some of the buildings, while other buildings barely warrant a nod. In fact, many might wonder why they are even designated as historic. Never judge a book by its cover – some of these plain nondescript structures have very interesting stories to tell. One such building is the plain, one-story building just off 5th and Market called the Montijo.

New Self-Guided Victorian Christmas Tour

Celebrate the holidays by taking our new Self-Guided Victorian Christmas Tour! The halls are decked from top to bottom. Explore the Victorian Christmas Traditions that have taken over each room of the House.  Special booklet and online activities included in each tour!  Join us Thursday-Saturday 10-4pm Book a private tour Tuesday and Wednesday 10-4pm