OB Historical Society Presents
In 1887 Billy Carlson and Frank Higgins, a couple of the first early developers and land speculators renamed “Mussel Beds” to “Ocean Beach”.
They were also were linked to numerous scandals. To name a few: land deals, an O.B. hotel and trains. Later Carlson became San Diego’s youngest Mayor and ended up going to prison for tax fraud, while Higgins became a tragic figure.
Some still credit these two characters as the founders of O.B. but more thoughtful historians, such as name Charles Collier as OB’s true founder.
This Thursday, April 21, 7 pm at P.L. United Methodist Church, 1984 Sunset Cliffs Blvd., O.B., the OBHS presents “The Carlson & Higgins O.B. Scandals” By Bruce Semelsberger.
Bruce Semelsberger is the Archivist for the Pacific Southwest Railway Museum 1985 – present. Bruce built an archival collection and gives lectures on the railroad. Bruce also lectures about local history. He has been prominent feature speaker at The Congress of History of San Diego and Imperial Counties annual conferences. Suggested OBHS Program donation $5, but any donation is appreciated.
And while you’re at it ….
Check these OB History articles:
Is Ocean Beach Really 125 Years Old? – published in 2012
Who is the Founder of Ocean Beach? – Part 2 of the OB History Series on its Birthdates
What’s the True Birthday of Ocean Beach and Who Is Our True Founder? – Part 3 : the Legacy of Smiling Billy Carlson
The Case for Charlie Collier as the True “Founder” of Ocean Beach – Part 3
{ 0 comments… add one now }