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The Point Loma peninsula was at one time an island off the southern
California coast. Fashioned by millions of years of erosion from the
present day San Diego River, a land bridge was formed to create the
peninsula we now enjoy.
Once inhabited by
several tribes of indigenous cultures, Point Loma is the site of the first
European landing along the west coast of the United States. It was in
late September of 1542 that the Portuguese explorer Juan Rodriguez
Cabrillo, in the service of Spain, set upon Ballast Point -- in effect
discovering California.
The Peninsula’s eastern
shore welcomed ships from all over the world. Soon the area began to be
settled by Spanish, then Mexican, then American citizens followed by
international traders, whalers, and fishermen. Although present day
downtown San Diego became the main port and business center of the city,
Point Loma was one of the region’s most strategic and historically
significant communities. Even today, it remains an integral connection to
San Diego’s seafaring tradition.
Source:
www.point-loma.com
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