Tribute Proposals: Call for a Commemorative Structure to Honor Pacific Ocean Park's Former Pier
In a heartfelt letter published on July 4, Dell Franklin, a resident of Cayucos who grew up in Compton, expressed his appreciation for columnist Patt Morrison's piece about the Long Beach Pike. The article served as a poignant reminder of two iconic amusement piers - Pacific Ocean Park (POP) and The Pike - that once thrived in Southern California.
Pacific Ocean Park, which opened in 1958, was the last of the big amusement piers in California. Known for its modern rides and attractions, it attracted large crowds. However, its success was short-lived. The park closed in 1967 due to financial struggles and structural issues, and the site was eventually demolished.
The Pike, also known as Nu-Pike, was another famous amusement park in Long Beach. Its roots date back to the early 20th century, and it became a popular spot for entertainment and leisure activities. Over time, The Pike evolved, attracting more adults and featuring pool rooms, bars, and dance halls. It was also known for its sideshows, including the infamous "Miss Elsie Marks, the Cobra Woman."
For Franklin and his friends, riding the Cyclone Racer at the Long Beach Pike was a significant part of their experience. They often hitchhiked down Long Beach Boulevard to visit the Pike, where they socialized with sailors and observed the harlots from a distance. The big bands at the pier entertained swing-shift defense workers from nearby Douglas Aircraft, creating a vibrant and lively atmosphere.
A suggestion for a memorial at the former location of the piers has been made by Richard Orton from Ocean Park. Although there is no trace of the pier today, the proposal aims to commemorate the place where people once had a good time. Franklin, who grew up in a honky-tonk neighborhood dominated by the Pacific Ocean Park and earlier versions of the pier dating back to the 1890s, believes that their exposure to the "seamy side of life" was not necessarily a bad thing.
The memories evoked by the article serve as a testament to the impact these amusement piers had on the region's entertainment landscape. Both Pacific Ocean Park and The Pike reflect the evolution of entertainment in Southern California, with each playing a unique role in the region's amusement park history.
In Los Angeles, Pacific Ocean Park and The Pike were once thriving amusement centers that contributed significantly to Southern California's entertainment landscape, especially during Franklins childhood in Compton. reflecting the evolution of entertainment, their legacies continue as a matter of opinion and historical importance to residents of California, especially those who experienced the vibrant attractions these iconic piers offered.
