This genteel photo gives is a glimpse into what Abbot Kinney’s original vision was for what he called “Venice of America,” but which we now refer to as Venice. In the foreground, we can see the lagoon, on which Angelenos could take gondola rides. That wide pedestrian walkway lead down to the Venice amusement pier, which had all sorts of rides, games, and diversions. But what stumps me is that circular thing in the foreground that looks like a volcano. What do you think it was?

Boris D on Twitter says: “I believe it was used as a sort of artificial volcano to launch fireworks. So indicates Carolyn Elayne Alexander in her book on Venice in the Images of America series.”

JenniX on Twitter says the vintage photo was taken from the Antler Hotel, which makes sense now that I think about it.

This is a satellite image of that same view in January 2020. The lagoon has been gone for years, and this spot is now known as Windward Circle.