Though Carmel was first discovered just 50 years after Columbus settled in America, it was not officially declared a city until 1916. In fact, it all started in the year 1771 when Father Junipero Serra founded the San Carlos mission, which is the second oldest mission in California, following after the one in San Diego. Despite its importance, the mission is just one part of what has drawn everyones’ attention to the coastline.
The early 1900s welcomed wanderers and artists alike to Carmel. With migration increasing due to the San Francisco earthquake and fire, the quaint little town transformed into a cultural hub. In 1905, the Carmel Arts and Crafts Club was formed to support the artist population that was flocking to the town. The artists’ colony held shows, exhibitions and lectures. Authors such as Jack London, Upton Sinclair and George Sterling settled in Carmel with nothing more than tents and the great outdoors to spur their creativity. With time, the club was recognized nationally as a focal point for artists.
The many theaters of Carmel are also known as especially historical significant due to their longevity through the region’s history. The beloved outdoor Forest Theater, located on Santa Rita and 10th avenue, was built before the city of Carmel even officially existed. Additionally, The Golden Bough Playhouse was the hotspot for actors and writers and was renamed more than three times! Unfortunately, however, the original building, which was located on South Ocean between Monte Verde and Lincoln, burned down in 1949 and was rebuilt in 1952. The new location still serves as a working theater today, but is also remembered as a historical landmark.
When Carmel finally became a city, there were only approximately 450 residents. Through the years, the beachside town worked to strenghten local businesses, especially in the downtown district. The city gained even further noteriety from celebrity residents like Clint Eastwood and Doris Day.
Lastly, the presence of the Pine Inn never seems to fade. Constructed in 1889, the hotel was originally called “Hotel Carmelo” and featured an elegant country style. Carmel experienced an influx of development and residents over the following years, so the owners saw it best to change locations. The building was moved a few blocks further down Ocean avenue, rolling on a bed of pine logs! While it took nearly a year, the hotel was open once more and was the place to be in the early 1900s. Thriving for over a century’s worth of visitors, the hotel still stands today.
Nowadays, the peninsula’s scenic views and historic attractions pull in hundreds of thousands of visitors annually. Voted as one of the best small towns by numerous publications, Carmel is here for anyone wanting appreciate it’s rich history.
By E. FOSTER