|
||
|
|
|
|
San Diego Harbor Excursion, a tourist pamphlet for a two-hour, 25-mile guided tour, provides an encompassing overview of San Diego's maritime landmarks, naval facilities, and historical points of interest, dated in the mid-20th century, probably the 1940s. This excursion offered passengers an intimate journey past Civic Center Buildings, Coast Guard Base, Lindbergh Field, and a succession of naval institutions before concluding with the breathtaking spectacle of Warship Row and the intricate web of tuna canneries, shipyards, and docks.
In the period following World War II, San Diego had solidified its position as a pivotal maritime hub, not only for commerce but also for naval operations and training. The harbor's vast 22 square miles rendered it a cornerstone for the Pacific Coast's naval activities. This was an epoch when the harbor was brimming with naval vessels, many of which had seen active service during the war years. Such a presence in San Diego's waters underscored the strategic importance and vitality of this harbor, not just for military purposes, but as a nexus of commerce, industry, and culture.
Central to the excursion's offering was the experience of viewing a myriad of naval ships - from Carriers and Light Cruisers to Submarines and PT Boats - especially when they are moored in the harbor. Observing these formidable vessels up close affords a tangible connection to recent historic events, fostering a deeper appreciation for naval architecture, engineering, and the broader historical narrative of the mid-20th century.
Furthermore, the harbor's inherent vibrancy is amplified by its thriving fisheries, showcased by the sight of Tuna Clippers unloading their catch, destined for the dining tables of American households. The guided tour, facilitated by individuals versed in nautical matters and marine life, ensures that passengers not only witness but also understand the multifaceted life and operations of this bustling harbor. In this context, the San Diego Harbor Excursion becomes not merely a recreational journey but an educational voyage through a critical chapter in America's maritime history.
![Air Log Western Air Express [Los Angeles-San Diego, Las Vegas-Los Angeles, Milford-Vegas, Salt Lake City-Milford]](https://storage.googleapis.com/raremaps/img/small/85953.jpg)
![[ San Diego County / Julian Mining District ] Sixth Annual Report of the State Mineralogist. Part I for the year ending June 1st 1886.](https://storage.googleapis.com/raremaps/img/small/101709.jpg)