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Don Diego Clock Tower Reigns On
May/June 2017
 Historic photo Courtesy NBC San Diego. Current photo Courtesy A. Hayes |
The Googie style Don Diego clock tower known to visitors for generations remains a tall beacon at the Del Mar Fairgrounds, even though the Mid Century building it was once attached to has been demolished. Relocated to the fairgrounds' main entrance in March, the clock tower is now visible from Jimmy Durante Boulevard and will surely continue to be a meeting place for visitors.
The iconic clock tower and tile murals of Don Diego were created in 1954 to promote the figure as a symbol of the Fair. In 1946, in an effort to reinvigorate the Fair, an artist had created the legendary Don Diego, based on Don Diego Alvarado. The actual Don Diego lived during the late 19th century and came from a family with substantial land near what is now Del Mar. Known for hosting lavish parties during his lifetime, Don Diego, the icon, then became known as host for the Del Mar Fair.
The building and tower were both intended for demolition in early 2017, and the tiles were to be installed in another location within the fairgrounds. However, the San Diego community pushed back on this plan led by SOHO. Thanks to the 22nd District Agricultural Board of Directors and their reconsideration of this project, Don Diego will continue to reign as host of the Del Mar Fair (now the San Diego County Fair).
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