The wooden Rincon Parkway, Ventura, California, circa 1910s
It may seem an odd way to build a road, but back in the 1910s when we were still figuring out this whole idea of motoring around the countryside, a wooden parkway probably wasn’t so crazy. This is the Rincon Parkway, which formed part of California’s State Route 1 – the glorious coastal drive between San Francisco and Los Angeles – specifically halfway between Santa Barbara and Ventura. While very scenic, I’d imagine those eucalyptus planks weren’t altogether impervious to the vagaries of the weather and ocean tides. But it sure must have been a thrilling drive while it lasted.
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I cannot even fathom the unspoiled beauty of California back in those days.
It kinda reminds me of the book “Two Years Before the Mast” that describes putting ashore in a trading boat in the 1830s in the then-Mexico province of California.
All that unspoiled Californian beauty sure would have been a sight to see, wouldn’t it, Rich?
Still a popular surfing location up on Rincon Point upper left of photo.
You’ve done it again, something else never seen or imagined! In 1910 cars were playthings for the wealthy & adventurous. The first three shown appear chauffeur driven affairs, although don’t understand purpose of what appear to be multiple flags on poles flying on each. Patriotic holiday or road inauguration perhaps?
Immediately noticed road is elevated, giving wildlife access and use of oceanfront. Shame modern roadways aren’t as environmentally sensitive. Although on second glance, road is very close to shoreline. Guessing elevated for tide surges.
I must admit, Matt, that I was pretty surprised myself when I came across it. Because it’s so close to the water, I assume the elevation was more about the tide than the critters. The wooden road looks pretty new so my guess this is an inauguration day photo or perhaps a motor enthusiast club doing it’s first convoy along it.