San Diego Then and Now

I've been a San Diego resident for the past 47 years. I've always been amazed at the growth and the way the city has changed. When I arrived, San Diego was the 23rd largest city in the country and I watched it get up to number 6. What a dramatic record! In any case, I've been interested in the changes, both in the city and in San Diego State University where I work. I like to bend visitors and newcomers ears about how Mission Valley used to be farmland. about how the freeway system was just getting started when I arrived and about the centrally-located spot where I live being on the far outskirts of the city when I moved in. It's fascinating. Well, here's an extension of my observations. It's a book titled "San Diego: Then and Now" and it goes back to the days of founding of the city up to about the year 2000. My wife picked it up at our local warehouse store, of all places. She thought I might enjoy it. Well, yes! The good-sized coffee table book provides an interesting running commentary and a comparative set of photos, then and now, for many well-known San Diego landmarks. What a fascinating history of the city long before I ever new it! Amazing! But then, you'd probably have to have some major interest in San Diego to fully appreciate the book. I mean, if you're from Des Moines, you're probably going to find the book a yawner. But I'm from San Diego, and I've been here for close to a quarter of it's history and I find it compelling reading and viewing. I'll get lot of use out of it with unsuspecting visitors. Gary Peterson

This is one of two San Diego photo books I purchased for my husbands birthday. Absolutly beautiful! The black and white photography really captures some of the details that are lost in color photos.

It's facinating to see the way the city has changed, the author has some good history and trivia throughout the pages as well. If you are from San Diego or have ever lived here, this makes a great coffee table book.