Entries Tagged 'Uncategorized' ↓

Ione Welch, Christmas, 1922 in Yosemite
This was the first time Yosemite was open to the public in the winter.
History San Jose Collection #1997-222-23

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Sarah Puckitt, Curator of Art & Photography

Neighborhood War Garden. Photograph by Al Lasser, History San José Collection

Victory Gardens were one of the most successful programs during World War II. People at home were encouraged to grow their own fruits and vegetables, as commercially grown produce was needed to feed the military and allies overseas. In 1943, the Department of Agriculture challenged the nation to grow at least 18 million gardens. The challenge was well received; in San José a “Neighborhood War Garden” was developed near Taylor and Stockton Streets. You can learn more about the Santa Clara Valley during World War II at the Home Front exhibit in the Pacific Hotel Gallery at History Park.

Come to History Park on Saturday, August 8th to experience the Spirit of ’45 at the Third Annual Day of Remembrance at History Park. It will be a day full of memories, living historians, music, and dancing.

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Melissa Johnson
Curator of Interactive Media

Rancho Santa Teresa, Bernal Land Grant, c. 1860, Leonard McKay Collection

In 1834 José Joaquin Bernal received a grant of 9,647 acres from the Mexican government.

To learn more about Spanish and Mexican era in San José joing us for the Founders’ Day Fandango on July 26, 2009.

USS Macon Mooring at Naval Air Station Moffet Field in Sunnyvale, California

The USS Macon was a rigid airship stationed at NAS Moffet Field from 1933 until it was damaged in a storm and crashed of the California coast near Big Sur in 1935. It was built and used by the United States Navy for scouting.

Hanger One is in the background with both of its giant doors open.  It was built in the 1930′s and is still one of the largest unsupported structures in the United States. The immense building could house the giant USS Macon and several smaller airships. The floor of the hanger could contain 1o football fields.

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Melissa Johnson
Curator of Interactive Media

Dr. Henry Meade Bland and some members of his English class at San Jose State Normal School, c.1913