Publisher's Synopsis
What do terms like "Hatton's Howler," "The Aimless Luncheon Club"; and "Cactus Jumpers Jamboree" have to do with each other? Robert Hillery, a natural story teller, explains their part in the transformation of Cathedral City from a desert location of sand and sage to a modern city with a population of over 55,000. Using historical records culled from various sources, mixed in with his own memories of growing up in this community, Bob Hillery weaves an interesting, factual and at times humorous story of the city's development. Complemented with over 100 photographs, maps and charts which make the story come alive, the book makes the reader feel like they have been transported back in time. Learn about the first well, first church, first school, first bank, the first library, the establishment of flood control, and so much more which we take for granted in our modern cities. The author didn't just find his information by researching newspaper archives and historical sources; he experienced first hand what he so vividly describes first hand having grown up in the town, and through exposure to his parents and older acquaintances, some of whom were the very earliest pioneers in converting the desert wasteland into the second largest city in the Coachella Valley. This book will provide much information and be an excellent resource for lovers of history, students, museums, libraries, and those interested in the growth of Palm Springs and its neighboring cities.
