Author/Historian Doris I. Walker will relate “The Romantic History of Dana Point” on Monday, August 23, 2010, 7 pm, at the Dana Point Library, at Coast Highway and Niguel Road.
Her presentation is sponsored by the Dana Point Friends of the Library, of which Walker was charter vice president. She also organized two current exhibits in the library about namesake Richard Henry Dana and his books. Those displays are sponsored by the Dana Point Historical Society, of which Walker was co-founder in 1987 — “two years before the city.”
This year marks the 175th anniversary of Bostonian seaman Richard Henry Dana Jr’s two short visits here, also being celebrated in the annual Toshiba Tall Ships Festival September 10-12 in Dana Point Harbor.
Author/Historian Doris I. Walker will explain why this coastal spot earned the “romantic” designation by its namesake, and how it has continued to deserve it. Each era of the community’s history has added its own chapter of colorful, romantic history, she relates.
The Historical Society is arranging a public reading of Dana’s famous book: “Two Years Before the Mast.” Members of the community will take turns reading from the sea classic from start to finish during the three days of the Tall Ships Festival. This reading will also be explained in the library presentation. (E-mail FairviewT@aol.com or call (949) 388-3436 to volunteer as an 8-10 minute reader)
The public is invited to the August 23 free event to hear Walker speak, answer questions and sign her books, which include the significant “Home Port for Romance” local history. She is an Orange County historical commissioner and a national award-winning writer/author.
Your Board of Directors,
Dana Point Historical Society