Health & Fitness
A Redlands History Lesson
A vibrant Mexican community existed in Redlands before the coming of the I-10, complete with orchestra, opera house and theatrical production. Who knew?
This past Sunday afternoon I read a fascinating local book, “Mexican Americans in Redlands.” It’s part of a series of books on local topics put out by Arcadia Publishing. It’s an engrossing look into Redlands history.
Even though I’ve lived in Redlands for 25 years, I cannot claim to know its history well. I confess that I have lived most of my Redlands life in my own little world— one populated by my family, friends, faith community, work colleagues and clients—not necessarily the greater world residing in our city. That’s been my loss. I’m glad I’ve gotten a few of the blanks in my awareness filled in for now. There are so many more to come.
Antonio Gonzalez Vasquez and Genevieve Carpio have produced a terrific volume that looks into a little-known nor acknowledged part of Redlands history. I came upon it because I took a walking tour a few months ago with Vasquez and a few other Redlands residents. We had all seen an article in the Facts about the tour.
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Vasquez’s overall project is called Inland Mexican Heritage (http://www.inlandmexicanheritage.yolasite.com), and includes several video productions as well. The major one is “Living on the Dime.” Did you know that the I-10 was called “The Dime” ? I did not... I grew up in Florida, at the other end of the Dime! I wonder what its moniker was in my hometown?
I also did not know about the huge toll the freeway took on the Mexican community and the city of Redlands. Over the years I've wondered about the whole “Northside-Southside” debate in town, but this helped me gain a little insight into some sources of the very real physical divide we have because of the interstate highway cutting through town. It kinda reminded me of the old Berlin Wall—it certainly limits movement.
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The book has lots of photographs and personal stories about people in our community. Muchas gracias to Mr. Vasquez and Ms. Carpio for their vision and perseverance to bring this treasure to light. Check the IMF website for a schedule of events. There are several coming up in Banning and in Redlands. If you have an opportunity to catch the walking tour, see the video or read the book, it will definitely enrich your understanding and appreciation of Redlands.