If you’re looking to take a walk in the park — and through history — Heritage County Park near Old Town is the place to go.
This 7.8-acre space was purchased by San Diego County in 1970 to help preserve local history, especially its Victorian-style architecture. This was during a time when downtown San Diego’s population was rising and locals feared this could result in the destruction of historic properties.
The seven buildings in Heritage County Park moved there from other parts of San Diego in the 1970s and 1980s, but they were all built in the late 1800s. Each one merges its Victorian style with other architectural elements and tells a story of early life in the city:
Senlis Cottage (1896) | This 19th century Vernacular style cottage is named for Eugene Senlis, a pioneer and employee of Kate Sessions.
Sherman-Gilbert House (1887) | Built with a Stick Eastlake style, this home is named for 19th century architect John Sherman and Auguste E. Gilbert, who originally purchased the home and lived there with her musician daughters.
Bushyhead House (1887) | This Italianate style house is named for Edward “Ned” Wilkerson Bushyhead, San Diego County Sheriff, Chief of Police, and owner of the “San Diego Union” newspaper.
Christian House (1889) | This home incorporates a Queen Anne style and is named for Harfield Timberlake Christian, owner of San Diego Title Insurance Guarantee and Trust Company.
McConaughy House (1887) | You’ll find Stick Eastlake styling on this home named for John McConaughy that was once used as a hospital. Some say ghostsmay still be in the home.
Burton House (1893) | This Classic Revival style house is named for retired US Army physician Dr. Henry Guild Burton.
Temple Beth Israel (1889) | Noted as San Diego’s first synagogue, it displays Classic Revival style architecture and is still used for weddings, bar mitzvahs, and receptions.
South Bay Open Aire Market | Wednesday, Aug. 2 | 3-7 p.m. | Chula Vista Golf Course Parking Lot, 4475 Bonita Rd., Bonita | Free | A gathering of South Bay vendors offering fresh, local goodies.
Bingo Night | Wednesday, Aug. 2 | 6-8 p.m. | Duck Foot Leucadia, 978 N. Coast Highway 101, Encinitas | Free | Become a lucky duck at this game night hosted by Adam Jara.
Twilight in the Park Concerts | Wednesday, Aug. 2 | 6:30-7:30 p.m. | Spreckels Organ Pavilion, 2125 Pan American E. Rd., San Diego | Free | Tonight’s concert features tunes from Santaways.
Thursday, Aug. 3
Ramy Youssef | Thursday, Aug. 3 | 6 p.m. | Observatory North Park, 2891 University Ave., San Diego | $24 | The stand-up comic and actor takes the stage in uptown SD.
“Cabaret” | Through Sunday, Aug. 20 | Times vary | Ocean Beach Playhouse and Arts Center, 4944 Newport Ave., San Diego | $29-$38 | The musical about a British nightclub singer and American author takes the stage.
Krystyna Hutchinson LIVE! | Thursday, Aug. 3-Saturday, Aug. 5 | Times vary | The American Comedy Co. San Diego, 818 Sixth Ave., San Diego | $10 | The comedian known for her appearances on Comedy Central and “The Joe Rogan Experience” is hoping to make San Diego laugh.
Friday, Aug. 4
MYL Beer Co. 4-Year Anniversary Soiree | Friday, Aug. 4-Sunday, Aug. 6 | Times vary | My Yard Live Beer Co., 288 Rancheros Dr., San Marcos | Free | Celebrate the brewery’s anniversary with a weekend-long shindig featuring live music, a corn hole tournament, and special beer releases.
Eslabon Armado | Friday, Aug. 4-Saturday, Aug. 5 | 8 p.m. | Civic Theatre, 1100 Third Ave., San Diego | $39-$145 | The Mexican group known for “Ella Baila Sola” performs the “Desveladxs Tour 2023.”
San Diego City Council voted for the city to take control of its ambulance services. This will allow San Diego to oversee staffing, aims to improve response times, and disincentivizes financial benefits to private companies. But, the change will increase fees by 12.5% over the next two years, prior to insurance. (San Diego Union-Tribune)
Travel
Once again, gas prices are revving up. According to AAA, the average cost of a regular, self-serve gallon of gasoline in San Diego County has surpassed $5 — it reached $5.08 yesterday. Experts attribute the increased costs to restrictions on oil production due to extreme heat in the US. (NBC 7)
Pets
We’re in for a treat. The San Diego County Department of Animal Services is waiving adoption fees all month for all animals in its care to help clear shelters. If you’re looking to provide a fur-ever home, browse pets available for adoption.
Outdoors
Last night, San Diegans were able to see a “supermoon” — a full moon in its closest approach to earth. These moons often appear brighter and larger than normal, but if you missed it, a second supermoon will be visible on Wednesday, Aug. 30, making it a blue moon. (San Diego Union-Tribune)
Coming Soon
Harry’s Taco Club is giving East Village something to guac about. The local taco and tequila restaurant started as a neighbor to Cass Street Bar in Pacific Beach, but it will open a new, stand-alone location this summer next to Fig Tree Cafe at 695 Sixth St.
Award
UC San Diego Health has been selected by U.S. News & World Report to appear on its “Best Hospitals National Honor Roll,” making it one of 22 hospitals to receive the distinction. This is its first time receiving the title that is awarded for outstanding patient care. (UC San Diego Today)
Legacy
A 784-ft US Navy ship that will be built in San Diego will be named to honor Hector Cafferata Jr., a former Camp Pendleton Marine Private who died in 2016. Cafferata received a Medal of Honor for his service and heroic actions during the Korean War. (San Diego Union-Tribune)
Outdoors
🧺 We’ve got the beet
Farmers markets in San Diego: Where to find fresh food
It’s no secret that San Diegans love a good farmers market. If you’re looking for a fresh way to spend your week, we have options for Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday.
Features: Find vendors selling fresh fruits, vegetables, flowers, and many products that aren’t readily available in traditional grocery stores — plus, new vendors rotate in.
Four Sigmatic’s organic protein powder is the ultimate smoothie booster. It contains 18 grams of protein and 1500 milligrams of adaptogens per serving — nourishing your mind + body.
Travel
Searching for the perfect luggage set that’s both lightweight + durable? We love this set for its polycarbonate shell and quiet double spinner wheels.
Eat
Slice and serve your favorite meats + cheeses on this sleek yet durable maple wood cutting board. Bonus: It’s preconditioned with beeswax, linseed, and lemon oil.
Pets
It’s time to treat your fur baby with a product worth barking about. Check out the Martingale Collar in peach + gold from Major Darling.
Good morning, San Diego. I’m drawn to Heritage Park because I’m fascinated with the Victorian homes in San Diego. I love when I spot one “in the wild” — or when I’m not specifically looking for it. Golden Hill and Bankers Hill are two communities that have many Victorian homes.
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