Historian Mark Wanamaker will discuss his new book co-authored with E.J. Stephens, “Images of America: Griffith Park,” bringing stories and images to members and guests of the Pacific Palisades Historical Society at 7 p.m. on Monday, September 23 at Pierson Playhouse, 941 Temescal Canyon Rd.
Carved from the former Spanish land grant known as Rancho
Los Feliz, Griffith Park, a rugged 4,300-acre wilderness located in the heart of Los Angeles, has been the principal playground for Angelenos for over a century.
Since 1896, when the land was donated to the city by controversial philanthropist Col. Griffith J. Griffith, generations of weekenders have picnicked, camped, golfed, rode horses, hiked, bicycled and played ball in the park.
To this day, visitors still climb aboard its mini-train and merry-go-round and explore its zoo, museums, amphitheater and world-famous observatory. The park has also been a frequent filming site for legendary movies like “Back to the Future,” “Birth of a Nation” and “Rebel Without a Cause.”
Highlights of “Griffith Park” include chapters titled “The Colonel’s Grand Gift,” “Los Angeles at Play” and “Hollywood’s Backlot.”
The public is invited. Admission and parking are free. Refreshments follow the program. Contact:pacificpalisadeshistory.org.
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