Lomita-  The Little Hills

Nestled between Torrance and Rolling Hills Estates, Lomita houses much of the rich history that makes up the South Bay.  Lomita was originally part of Rancho San Pedro, granted by the Spanish Empire to Juan Jose Dominguez by King Carlos III of Spain in 1784.

Lomita originally spanned seven square miles. However, over time, much of this area was annexed by

neighboring cities. This includes "Lomita Fields" now known as Torrance Municipal Airport or "Zamperini Field".

In 1882, due to poor weather conditions, and financial challenges in the cattle industry, much of Rancho San Pedro was sold divided and sold to 17 separate parties.  Lomita was founded by Nathaniel Narbonne and Ben Weston. In 1907 the W. I. Hollingsworth Company purchased a large tract of land just north of the Palos Verdes hills. The company intended to make the subdivision of Lomita into a Dunkard colony (Religious German Baptist Sect) after several of its Dunkard clients expressed an interest in founding a settlement in the Los Angeles area. Development began soon afterward.

Lomita experienced many changes and began to actively grow once it was discovered that Lomita was rich in oil. The oil boom settled down and Lomita gained itself a new reputation for being rich in other resources such as celery and strawberries. Lomita was named “Celery Capital of the World” in the 1920’s. The town continued to grow rapidly all the way until the 1950’s and 1960’s. 

With the threat of high rises in the midst during the 1960’s, Lomita residents put their feet down, and demanded to maintain the small family oriented community it already succeeded in being. Driving through Lomita, you can still see the small town influence. In Lomita you will find quaint tree lined streets and hints of the lovely California bungalow style homes and architecture, so popular in its time. Lomita and its residents continue to remain true to their roots. You will find historical landmarks and eateries signature only to Lomita scattered throughout the now only 1.5 square mile town.

Notable Residents:

Nathaniel Narbonne-In 1921, heirs of Nathaniel Narbonne donated a parcel of property to Los Angeles on which to build a school to be named after their ancestor, which is today Fleming Middle School.

Judy Garland-In 1935, a vaudevillian named Frank Gumm of Grand Rapids, Minnesota leased the Lomita Theater to present his singing and dancing daughters; Mary Jane, Dorothy Virginia, and Judy, who would later change her name to Judy Garland.

Lomita Points of Interest:

Lomita Railroad Museum-Opened in 1966 by Irene Lewis. The museum is devoted to the steam engine period of Railroading. On display are a 1902 Baldwin Locomotive, a Southern Pacific tender, a 1910

Union Pacific caboose, and a Santa Fe caboose. The Museum building is an impressive replica of a 19th Century depot that once stood at Wakefield Massachusetts. The Museum also houses a full-size replica of a 1920s water tower that was constructed in 2000. The museum is joined by a small public park, which accommodates a Union Pacific boxcar and a Union Oil tank car.

The Hot n’ Tot- Established in 1951, this local restaurant has managed to maintain everything charming about the era in which it was established. The bright neon sign outside guides the way to a menu without frills, but can still draw a line outside on a Sunday morning.

St. Margret Mary Fair- Seasonal. This church has been host to a fair for some 70 years now. Bringing the community together, the fair offers all of the classic rides found in small town fairs around the U.S. Residents walk and run from miles around to partake in the festivities and enjoy the traditional Mexican food modestly presented but deliciously irresistible to every passerby. 

San Pedro- The Port and Heart of Los Angeles

San Pedro could possibly be called one of the most culturally rich communities in the entirety of Los Angeles. Discovered by Juan Rodriguez Cabrillo in 1542, the area soon became a bustling fishing port. Much of San Pedro’s early development stems from its occupation by Spanish and Mexican settlers.

After the Mexican American war in 1848, and the land officially considered being American soil, the port town was much improved. Now known as the best and busiest port in the entire United States, San Pedro is also often referred to as the Port of Los Angeles.  In 1869, Los Angeles and San Pedro Railroad began service between the bay and Los Angeles. This 21-mile stretch of track was the first railroad in Southern California and marked the beginning of a new era of development for the harbor area. Also at this time, the coastal waters of San Pedro took on a marked change due to dredging between Snake Island, now known as Terminal Island, as well as Dead Man’s Island. These two islands were connected by a breakwater, and now host thousands of port traffic per year.

Fort MacArthur, built in 1914, was a coastal defense site for many years. Other facilities were established in the San Pedro area, and it was a popular port of call for U.S. Navy ships, especially during World War II.  Fort MacArthur, still active today is home to many navy families. A great way to gain perspective about the Port’s influence in San Pedro is to visit the largest maritime museum in California, the Los Angeles Maritime Museum. This museum features more than 700 ships, boat models, navigational equipment, and an operating amateur radio station.

San Pedro has been also strongly influenced by its cultural diversity and strong immigrant population. Home to the largest Italian American community in Southern California, San Pedro has also been shaped by Croatian, Mexican, Greek and Portuguese immigrants alike.  This is clearly visible in its restaurants and watering holes scattered about San Pedro. The Croatian community boasts over 200 years in San Pedro, and considers it the heart of the Croatian community. San Pedro is host to a plethora of historical landmarks, with history as rich as a pirates booty. To explore San Pedro, is an experience like no other. Each layer of rich history revealing another layer just as intricate as the first.

Most recently, San Pedro has been host to redevelopment, much to the pleasure of its residents. The Bridge to Breakwater project, pioneered by John Papadakis, a local hero and entrepreneur, has open new doors, and ideas focused mainly on bringing the people of the community back to the water. In addition, to scenic landscaping along the port’s edge, San Pedro’s strong art community has inspired developers and the like to embark on exciting new lofts in the down town area. Some of these lofts maintain the integrity of the original beautiful architecture, while giving artists and laymen a place to call home.

San Pedro is home to an array of architectural diversity. Craftsman bungalow style homes reside next to beautiful Ranch and Colonial style homes, often featuring ocean views. Most often forgotten about San Pedro, is that it boasts some of the most spectacular ocean views in all of Southern California.

Points of Interest-

The Cabrillo Marine Aquarium- Just steps from the ocean on Cabrillo Beach, the aquarium is a non-profit public aquarium which engages all visitors in education, recreation and research to promote knowledge, appreciation and conservation of the marine life of Southern California. www.cabrilloaq.org

The Marintime Museum- This museum features more than 700 ships, boat models, navigational equipment, and an operating amateur radio station.

Angel’s Gate Cultural Center – Once military barracks, these buildings have been transformed to host an array of artist’s work spaces. The center hosts two art galleries, Gallery A and Gallery G, where local and international artists are invited to exhibit their work. www.lamaritimemuseum.org

Fort MacArthur Museum- From 1916-1945, this was the Upper Reservation of the Fort, and operation post for defense of the harbor against enemy attack from the sea. The site housed four batteries; each secured under 12 feet of concrete, and with walls from 16-30 feet thick. Each battery housed a giant 14 inch seacoast gun, called a disappearing rifle, capable of firing 14 miles. The guns could be loaded and pre-sighted safely from behind their 20-foot thick parapets, then raised up, fired and retracted back into the loading positions in less than 20 seconds. The museum features photos, drawings, exhibits and memorabilia of Fort MacArthur and Los Angeles Harbor defenses from 1920 through World War II.  www.ftmac.org

Korean Friendship Bell- Presented by the Korean Republic in 1976, this bell resides in what is known as Korean Peace Park or Angel’s Gate Park. The bell was gifted to San Pedro, to honor veterans of the Korean War, and as a symbol of friendship between Korean and the U.S.

Warner Grand Theatre- This theatre was opened to the public in 1931. It was originally one of three art deco structures designed by B. Marcus Priteca, but sadly is the only one still standing. Restoration began several years ago at the Warner Grand, and now is host to a variety of events throughout the year.  http://www.warnergrand.org/

Cabrillo Beach- This beach boasts some of the most stunning and breath taking views in all of Southern California. Host to the Marine Aquarium, The Cabrillo Beach Bathhouse, and over a mile of sand and scenery, Cabrillo beach is a must see for any San Pedro native or visitor.

Palos Verdes Peninsula- Living in Style

Located on a lush peninsula that is the southernmost tip of Los Angeles County, Palos Verdes enjoys a reputation for providing a signature quality life style. The Palos Verdes Peninsula is separated into four distinctive cities: Palos Verdes Estates, Rolling Hills, Rolling Hills Estates, and Rancho Palos Verdes.  Two unincorporated areas, Academy Hill and Westfield, are also included in the Peninsula’s boundaries.  The Peninsula is a unique community, eager to maintain the integrity of the beautiful community and

scenery, and eager to invite visitors and new businesses alike.

Blessed with a truly favorable climate, all four cities offer its residents and business an experience unique in Southern California.  The Peninsula cities each offer a distinctive feel enjoyed by visitors and residents alike. The uniqueness of the community is highly regarded and preserved by its residents.    

Soft ocean breezes keep the climate on the Peninsula moderate, with summer temperatures barely above 80 degrees, and an average winter temperature of 67 degrees.  Since rainfall is limited to certain portions of the year, all four seasons offer opportunity for active outdoor activity.  The Peninsula is bordered on the west and south by the Pacific Ocean therefore offering a world of activities such as water sports including diving, swimming, surfing, yachting, sailing and more.  For the more relaxed person, sunbathing and admiring the spectacular ocean views and breathtaking sunsets are equally pleasurable. Locals and visitors also enjoy the convenience of Santa Catalina Island only a short boat ride away.

The Peninsula also features an active equestrian community. There are trails for equestrians, bicyclists, joggers, hikers and walkers- all lined with native flora and a host of fauna indigenous to the Palos Verdes Peninsula. Bird watchers, animal lovers and preservationist will enjoy a host of scenery and activity in each of the four cities.

The Peninsula is a host to several golf clubs, both private and public.  The most recent addition being the Trump National Golf Course. This golf course is perfectly situated near the ocean’s edge, capturing sparkling ocean and Catalina Island views.

Several parks in the Peninsula lend themselves to picnics, relaxing in the sun or shade, kit flying or Frisbee throwing. The eight developed parks offer activities seniors and children. Undeveloped parks anywhere from 4.5 acres to 140 acres are scattered throughout each city. These parks offer trails unlike any other in Southern California.

Recreation, golf, equestrian, community events, the areas and theater, outstanding restaurants, service oriented and friendly business and convenient shopping are the hallmark of the Peninsula communities.  The Peninsula’s first hotel and spa, Terranea Resort, started construction in 2006.  Situated along the magnificent Palos Verdes coastline is the 102 acre which was once Marineland,  Terranea Resort is an exciting addition to the community. Scheduled to open in 2009, the luxury coastal retreat will offer an executive nine hole golf course, a 25,000 square foot resort spa, boutique, retail, and an abundance of conference and event space. Also included are extensive outdoor venues for community, social and business functions.  The resort’s three restaurants will include casual and fine dining options with a cliff side bar and specialty restaurant overlooking the Pacific with stunning views of the California coastline.  Public access to the beach and a network of trails outside the property, the Terranea resort will be a must see destination.

The Peninsula communities along with its active Chamber of Commerce are committed to ensure a brilliant and exciting future for all residents and business, while constantly preserving the integrity and natural beauty of this unparallel community.

Palos Verdes Estates- Committed to Nature and Community Preservation

The west side of the Peninsula down to the shore of the Pacific Ocean is host to a city committed to preserving its unique character and environment. The City of Palos Verdes Estates, incorporated on December 20, 1939, is the oldest of the four cities on the Palos Verdes Peninsula. Upon entering Palos Verdes Estates, the viewer is treated to a dramatic climate change from bustling city life to a serene tree lined community known for its dramatic ocean views. More than one quarter of this city is permanently

protected as parkland and is diligently maintained in its natural state to maintain the city’s rural atmosphere. The community was laid out and landscaped by the Olmsted Brothers, sons of Frederick Law Olmsted, Sr., who designed Central Park in New York City. Softly winding roadways, green hillsides, paths, eucalyptus, pepper, and coral trees were established early on. The early planning and dedication of parklands gives the City its unique rural character and has resulted in its proud reputation for scenic beauty.

The city of Palos Verdes estates maintains a preference to Mediterranean style architecture exemplified by it’s one and only Malaga Cove Plaza. Homes situated in Malaga cove offering views to Santa Monica, are some of the most highly coveted real estate locations in all of Southern California.  The Neptune Fountain, the city’s logo, has been greeting residents and visitors since the cities commencement and with the help of the committed Homes Association and preservationists; it will continue to do so for generations to come.

Rancho Palos Verdes the Peninsula’s Newest and Largest City

Rancho Palos Verdes is a quiet, affluent portion of the Peninsula situated atop the bluffs of the Palos Verdes Peninsula, it is well known for its stunning views of the Pacific Ocean.  The History of Rancho Palos Verdes dates back to the Spanish explorers and the establishment of the first Spanish rancho land grant in California. Its most notable geographic features are the hills and cliffs with grand vistas of the Pacific Ocean, with views of Santa Catalina Island.

There are several major landmarks of Rancho Palos Verdes. The newest is the site of the former Marineland park, closed in 1987. Beginning in 2006, the lot is being developed for a highly anticipated

addition to the coastal community, Terranea Resort. Second to none, is the Trump National Golf Course at Ocean Trails, offering members and visitors an opportunity to dine, golf, or partake in a relaxing stroll whilst enjoying the coastal views and its treasures.

Rancho Palos Verdes is committed to preventing the overdevelopment of its lush coastal property.  Primarily host to single family homes, Rancho Palos Verdes is also host to condominium and town home developments often boasting spectacular ocean views. Unique architecture, scenic views, and lush flora and fauna make Rancho Palos Verdes one of the most desirable destinations in all of Southern California.

Rolling Hills Estates- The Equestrian Community

While the community has undergone changes over the years, Rolling Hills Estates continues to reflect the basic ideals held by the original pioneers while remaining responsive to the ever changing needs of its

residents. The City takes an active role in maintaining the integral quality of life that makes this community such an attractive and distinctive place to live. This equestrian community is committed to preserving its rural residential character and, at the same time, providing the best possible services to its visitors and residents. In addition to the impressive 50+ miles of horse trails, the city is also host to the South Coast Botanical gardens, also known as the Jewel of the Peninsula. The 87 acre botanical garden is home to over 2500 species of plants from around the globe.

With Rolling Hills Estates’ City Hall, offering a hitching post for its visitors, it is clear that the uniqueness and charm of this very close knit community is comparable to no other.

Rolling Hills- Privacy, Serenity & Luxury

Almost 1900 acres of land make up the City of Rolling Hills. This private gated community is host to a limited amount of single level, ranch style homes.  Known also for being an equestrian community, the

properties in this area are unique indeed.  Homes here are painted the “approved” white, in keeping with the exacting rules governed by the Homeowner’s Association. Most of the homes in Rolling Hills boast parcels of land of two or more acres, with few exceptions.

Three guarded entrances protect the residents of this community from the bustle of traffic and commerce.  The beautiful landscapes composed of tree lined vistas, wide open spaces for horses, hills and canyons- are perfect for those who prefer a quite, private and serene way of life in a luxury meets country type of setting.