Catalina Island Yacht Club

Members of the Catalina Island Yacht Club in Avalon, organized by Art Sanger and James Jump, erected the current club building in 1924 using some of the pilings of the Sophia Yacht Club that burned in the great fire of 1915. The club has been in continuous operation, maintained by members, since its completion except during the war years of 1942-1945 when it was used by the Merchant Marine as a training center. Although the classic design resembles some Coast Guard facilities, its tower is only ornamental. Members of one of the oldest and most unique yacht clubs in Southern California have included many well-known Hollywood personalities including Jack Warner, Rudolph Valentino, Tom Mix, James Cagney, and Johnny Weismuller.

Avalon, Catalina Island, Los Angeles County
Photographer: Andrew Schmidt