Who ever said: “out with the old and in with the new?” Clearly they are mistaken, because they must never have been to Old Towne Orange. Unlike many “Old Townes,” this one is still running strong. Often referred to as the "The Antique Capital of California," it has rich history to it. In 1801, the first landholder was a retired Spanish soldier, named Juan Pablo Grijalva; he had been on one of the early expeditions to California from Mexico and was granted the land. His rancho was passed on to his heirs and was eventually divided into 1,000 units, due to a lawsuit involving unpaid debts. Two Los Angeles lawyers involved in the lawsuit, Andrew Glassell and Alfred Beck Chapman, took some of their fees in land. Together they developed the city of Orange and Plaza Square in 1886.
From then on it has been a social hub of the city and prospered and survived today. The original fountain in the Plaza Square was installed in 1887 and a replica can be seen in front of the Orange Public Library that’s located on the outskirts of Old Town. It was just remodeled a few years back and it hosts rooms dedicated to Orange’s town history. There are many consignment malls packed with antiques and vintage goods, numerous restaurants, cafes, and many charming shops. Slews of people are seen shopping here every day and not just your Grandma because I see hipster scum here flipping through racks of fine vintage clothing at Elsewhere Vintage or middle aged couples picking up a meal at The Filling Station. Elsewhere Vintage boasts large amounts of high quality apparel. They have things from French fur coats from the 1920’s or Jackie O. esque pillbox hats. While you’re down here you can’t help but stop by Watson’s Drug and Soda Fountain, which is a 1950's themed diner that has been around for over 100 years. 
Come in and enjoy all the great burgers, malts, and ice cream floats. Mr. C’s Records has a fine collection of classics from the likes of Billie Holiday and The Everly Brothers, or some more modern artists like Adam and the Ants.
Also, on the first Saturdays of every month there is a quaint flea market right across the street from the YMCA . Many vendors that sell at the Rose Bowl commute here to sell their numerous antiques. I go to this flea market frequently and pick up some pretty interesting items like 1950’s sweater clips, 80’s dresses, and my most recent purchase of a 70’s carnival toy. And all were under $10. The city also offers many events throughout the year that takes place in the Plaza. On Labor Day it plays host to the Street Fair. The Old Towne Orange Antique Fair comes to town in February. There’s an Antique Car Show in April, haunted houses on Halloween, and Christmas tree lighting in December. Questions to think about:
1)How has Watson’s Drug and Soda Fountain stayed around for so long?
2)Why does the plaza appeal to such a wide range of age groups?
About our Blogger:
My name is Anna Nguyen and I’m in the 10th grade. I love watching movies. Some of my favorites are Harold and Maude, My Own Private Idaho, and Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind. The reason why I picked this topic is because I have an affinity for vintage items. I also grew up around the area and so it’s one of my favorite places in the world.
No comments:
Post a Comment
Thank you for responding to our topic.