The photo above shows developer Sidney Woodruff making a pitch to real estate agents in the late 1920s. As you see on the side of his car, Woodruff was behind the development of both Dana Point and Hollywoodland. (The "land" part eventually fell off his promotional sign and became a permanent icon.) Only 35 homes were built in Dana Point before the Depression hit and scuttled the project. The image below shows the area that would eventually become Dana Point Harbor. 
The public is invited to hear author/historian Doris I. Walker speak about “The Romantic History of Dana Point” on Aug. 23, 7 pm, at the Dana Point Library, at PCH and Niguel Rd. Her presentation is sponsored by the Dana Point Friends of the Library. Doris organized two current exhibits in the library about namesake Richard Henry Dana and his books. These displays are sponsored by the Dana Point Historical Society, of which Walker was co-founder in 1987 (two years before the city.) .
Nobody knows Dana Point history like Doris, so I definitely recommend attending this free event if you have an interest in the subject. She will also be selling and signing books that evening.
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This year marks the 175th anniversary of Dana’s two short visits here. This anniversary will also be celebrated at this year's Tall Ships Festival, Sept. 10-12 in Dana Point Harbor.
