The Life and Legacy of D. M. Renton: Pasadena and Santa Catalina Island, California 1902-1936 - Paperback

by Kathryn E. Renton (Author), David M. Renton (Author)

A fascinating and unique story about David M. Renton, "DM", who was a well known builder of Craftsman homes and other structures in Pasadena, CA, and who later was General Manager of Santa Catalina Island, CA. The book is set in the dynamic history of rapidly growing southern California in the period between 1902 and 1936. Santa Catalina Island was purchased by chewing gum magnate William Wrigley, Jr. in 1919. During the succeeding years he and David Renton constructed much of what still exists on the island today including the world famous Casino, the Wrigley Mansion, the Wrigley Memorial and other important structures. In addition they dealt with silver mining, the filming of many big screen Hollywood movie productions, Catalina Pottery and Tile, 2,000 passenger steam ships, undersea garden trips, world class fishing, and much more. This is a unique riveting view of the Golden State at the beginning of the 20th Century.

Author Biography

David Renton, grandson of DM Renton. Born and raised on the island with all the background of a true "Islander". Graduate of Stanford and M.I.T., and history buff. Kathryn Renton, great grand daughter of DM Renton. Born and raised in Connecticut, with an active interest in Catalina Island and California. Holds a degree from Harvard College and PhD from UCLA.