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From Zoom to Old Town: Exploring the Legacy of Calle Judeo
July/August 2024
 Retired California State Parks historian Alex Bevil leads tourgoers down historic Calle Judeo in Old Town. Photo by Dean Glass |
We hope you were able to attend SOHO’s recent two-part program "Rediscovering Calle Judeo," an immersive experience that offered a rare glimpse into a mostly forgotten chapter of San Diego history. Here’s a recap:
First up was the Zoom lecture by Alex Bevil, a retired California State Parks historian and prolific researcher and author. His decade-long research uncovered the vibrant and largely overlooked community of at least 40 Jewish entrepreneurs who made Old Town their home and business hub between 1850 and 1872. Bevil's engaging and entertaining storytelling transported attendees back to the 19th century, painting vivid portraits of these pioneering individuals who left an indelible mark on San Diego's early days.
In the program’s second part, Bevil led history buffs on a fascinating walking tour through Old Town San Diego State Historic Park. Participants retraced the footsteps of these trailblazing Jewish merchants, with Bevil bringing to life the hustle and bustle of their shops and the melting pot of cultures that mingled in this historic neighborhood more than 150 years ago.
For those who missed this extraordinary opportunity, you can still learn all about Calle Judeo's history by purchasing a printed booklet at the Marston House Museum Shop. This photo-filled, self-guided or armchair tour booklet allows you to rediscover this once-thriving Jewish community.
You can also download a free PDF version of the Calle Judeo tour booklet on SOHO’s website.
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