The Journal of San Diego History
SAN DIEGO HISTORICAL SOCIETY QUARTERLY
Fall 1977, Volume 23, Number 4
James E. Moss, Editor
Thomas L. Scharf, Assistant Editor
By Beverly Potter
Page 1.
Page 3. The large pavilion at Mission Cliff Gardens was a favorite gathering place for park visitors.
Page 3. The flower gardens and the park’s animals, such as the deer, were always popular attractions. Other sights included a walk-in bird aviary and a nearby Ostrich Farm
Page 4. End of the line for San Diego’s Electric Railway Company at the entrance to Mission Cliff Gardens.
Page 5. John D. Spreckels, owner of the street car company, developed Mission Cliff Gardens to its greatest extent. Beautiful tree-lined walk ways and other park facilities quickly made it a popular recreation center for San Diegans.
Page 6. Park visitors strolling among the flower gardens
Page 7. The lily pond near the pavilion was acclaimed by nearly everyone.
Page 9. A group of ladies seeing the park along a tree-shaded path.
Page 9. The miniature Japanese garden was built at the request of the San Diego Electric Railway Company and displayed all the “features of a picturesque Japanese landscape.” Tiny trees, buildings and arching bridges were a source of wonder to visitors. A 170 year-old Wisteria vine imported from Japan was planted on the north side of the garden.
Page 10. The view from one of Mission Cliff Garden’s pergolas into Mission Valley or to the mountains beyond could be awe inspiring.
