Past Tense: April 11, 2019

70 years ago – 1949
More tracks of the mountain lion previously sighted around Ernie Maxwell’s cabin were spotted. The visitor seemed to be more curious than hungry.

65 years ago – 1954
Oscar Lawler, prominent Los Angeles attorney, donated his 80-acre estate in the Dark Canyon area to the county. The donation was made in memory of Mrs. Lawler.

55 years ago – 1964
A negative report by the California Division of Beaches and Parks dimmed hopes of winter sport development in the tramway area. An expert found that variation in slopes and windy condtions on Mt. San Jacinto would make building ski runs unrealistic.

50 years ago – 1969
Work began on laying a sewer system in downtown Idyllwild. The job was expected to take a year to complete.

45 years ago – 1974
“Mary Poppins” was playing at the Rustic Theatre. Admission was $2 for adults, and $1 for youth under age 18.

40 years ago – 1979
Growing demand for gasoline forced many mountain area service stations to close down their pumps even earlier.

25 years ago – 1994
Fern Valley resident Chris Thile, 13, was preparing to sign his first recording contract. Every year, Chris toured the country playing the mandolin.

20 years ago – 1999
Cold weather, snow and mothball-sized hail caused Easter Sunrise Service at Inspiration Point to be canceled.

15 years ago – 2004
Idyllwild Library patrons were busy using the new computers Riverside County installed as part of a countywide program to upgrade and expand network and communication capability.

10 years ago – 2009
On March 29, a diamond in Idyllwild’s tiara of galleries, the Idyllwild Gallery of Fine Art, closed its doors. It was not the victim of economic down turn but of injury to owner Chris Maxson, a prime mover in Idyllwild’s art scene.

5 years ago – 2014
A bobcat cub was killed on Highway 74 at the entrance to Living Free Animal Sanctuary, apparently struck by a car. Just a few days later at almost the same location, a mountain lion club was discovered, also apparently struck by a car.

1 year ago – 2018
Idyllwild’s premier Alpenglow Lilac Garden showcased a spectacular array of blooming lilacs for attendees of the International Lilac Society.