Evolution
Catalina Indians
Development of Avalon
Catalina Island has a colorful history, beginning with its birth millions
of years ago right up to its modern day reality. Many visitors, however,
come to the island with almost no knowledge of its geology, biology and
historical events. Catalina Island, All You Need To Know details
island evolution, from its formation, to the Catalina Indians, smuggling,
entrepreneur, the development of Avalon and modern Catalina. Below are a
few excerpts from this segment of the book.
Avalon in the 1800's (Photo courtesy of SCICO)
On the surface of this newly formed island, a series of craggy rock patterns and hillsides had formed. Over time, several natural processes brought small animals and seeds of varying types to the island. Eventually, within the confines of these peaks, valleys and shear drop-offs, an array of unique plant and animal communities emerged, forming a geographically restricted ecosystem..........
Over a span of 7,000 years, various native American groups inhabited Catalina. The most recent were the Gabrieliņo, the subject of this segment. The Gabrieliņo enjoyed a secluded lifestyle, living primarily off the riches of the island and its surrounding waters. They called themselves "Pimugnans" and their island "Pimu" or "Pimugna." Being efficient dwellers, the Indians lived in large, 50 to 60 foot diameter huts that held several families. Their lifestyle consisted primarily of fishing and trading, which, in part, explains their shoreline residency. The island's abundant marine resources were a bounteous source of food for the natives; inshore invertebrates, mammals and fish were regularly consumed. Destruction of the island Indians was swift and brutal............
Smuggling
After 1820, Spanish rule gave way to Mexican occupation of California, but illegal trading still persisted. Since tariffs were the Mexican Government's only source of revenue, they established a customshouse at Monterey, California in 1821. Ships with cargo would stop at this post, pay cargo duty, then be on their way to trade freely along the coast. The Mexicans set tariffs at 100 percent of the value of the declared merchandise; this provoked many trade-merchant to look for ways to circumvent the system. Skippers, fed-up and frustrated, began to smuggle most of their valuable goods past customs to avoid paying high duty. This is when Catalina Island became a smuggling Eden; a cove was even named after the activity: Smugglers Cove. Smugglers used several tricks to fool the customshouse. When a................
One of Catalina's most notable transactions took place in 1887 when investors of the Lick estate resold Catalina for $200,000 to George Shatto. Shatto, a businessman and entrepreneur, was perhaps ultimately responsible for the Catalina we know today. He intended to turn the island into a tourist resort, beginning his five year reign by surveying the land and building a hotel. To expand Avalon's tourist base further, Shatto used steamships he leased from the Bannings to ferry tourists to and from the mainland. Some island tourists arrived to purchase lots in Avalon, which Shatto auctioned off for $150 to $2,000 depending on location and size. Those who purchased one were then free to set up tents or build summer cottages. However, Shatto racked up some hefty bills and defaulted on his mortgage payments. He soon thereafter lost the island. So what happened next?.........
Wrigley's most prized accomplishment was the construction of the famed Casino in 1929, which Wrigley figured would improve his revenues by attracting more tourists. Though the Casino was never used for gambling, it was a place for people to gather and enjoy some camaraderie and entertainment. It held a variety of functions following its grand opening, but the Casino's earmark during this era was ballroom dancing to the live music of a big band.
George Shatto (Photo courtesy of SCICO)
Benny Goodman Band (Photo courtesy of SCICO)
Catalina Today
Avalon is, nevertheless, only a small part of Catalina's history and enchantment;
its 75 square miles of interior wilderness is a symbol of what California
was like long ago, offering fantastic blends of plant and animal life forms
that are now uncommon on the mainland. Additional interests include roaming
bison, which were introduced to Catalina in the early 1900's. Further allure
is the island's historic sites such as Eagles Nest Lodge, which continue
to serve as mementos of Catalina's bygone era. Catalina Island, All You
Need To Know covers the history of Catalina in far greater detail than
what you see here. Order a copy today, you won't be disappointed!!
Today, Avalon remains Catalina's principal tourist attraction.
Though nearly 20 miles separate this unique town from the mainland,
remoteness has not altered progress. Catalina contains all essential
utilities such as electricity, water and phones. Rainwater is stored
in reservoirs throughout the island's interior, which is subsequently
purified then piped to the towns of Avalon and Two Harbors. A desalination
plant also services Avalon, which, most importantly, supply's water
during periods of drought. All electricity and water service is furnished
by the Edison Company, while Pacific Bell provides telephone utilities.
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