The Hawthorne Inn and the 1915 Panama Exposition

The 1915 Panama-California Exposition in San Diego's Balboa Park was a landmark event that significantly shaped the city's identity. The Hawthorne Historic Inn was already 15 years old. It was conceived to celebrate the opening of the Panama Canal and to showcase San Diego as a vital port city.

Here's a glimpse into the exposition:

• Architectural Marvel:

  • The exposition's architectural style, primarily Spanish Colonial Revival, was a defining feature. Architect Bertram Goodhue's designs created a visually stunning environment that continues to influence Balboa Park today. The buildings, with their intricate details and warm, earthy tones, evoked a sense of history and romance. And today the buildings look exactly as the did in 1915.

• A Celebration of Connection:

  • The exposition aimed to highlight San Diego's strategic position as the first U.S. port of call for ships traveling north after passing through the Panama Canal. It was a statement of San Diego's ambition to become a major player in international trade and commerce.

• Lasting Legacy:

  • The exposition left a lasting legacy on Balboa Park, transforming it into a cultural hub. Many of the buildings constructed for the event still stand and now house museums, theaters, and other cultural institutions.

  • It helped to put San Diego on the map, and contributed greatly to the cities growth.

• A Place of Wonder:

  • The exposition was a place of wonder, filled with exhibits showcasing the latest innovations, cultural displays from around the world, and entertainment for all ages.

In essence, the 1915 Panama-California Exposition was more than just a fair; it was a transformative event that helped to define San Diego's character and shape its future. These were also fabulous days for the Hawthorne Historic Inn

Notice under the bridge is a footpath. Now it is Highway 163. Balboa Park looks the same today.