Glenn Wenzel is a board member of the Riverside Historical Society, the Friends of Mount Rubidoux and the Riverside County Heritage Association. He is the author of two books on Mount Rubidoux.
As we enter 2025, we look back 100 years to Riverside in December 1924, offering a glimpse of life through local businesses, entertainment, and everyday purchases.
Riverside’s "Happy Side" campaign set out to showcase the city’s charm, foster community pride, and draw in visitors—despite some local controversy.
Riverside’s Fairgrounds Street is a reminder of the bustling county fairgrounds that once stood beneath the 60 Freeway, hosting fairs, races, and community events starting in 1914.
The Sherman Institute's football team, thriving in Riverside since 1902, proudly dominated the early 1900s and was celebrated as the champions of Southern California.
Carlson Bark Park is named in honor of Carl J. Carlson, a prominent figure in Riverside County scouting, and was created from a space formed by a bridge move.
In 1908, Riverside marveled at Prince Albert, a horse with astonishing tricks, trained by James Cuthbertson. Their bond was so strong that Cuthbertson declined a hefty offer to sell him, making Prince Albert a local legend.
The Rose Garden Village was created by Rev. Albert Turner to provide affordable and attractive living spaces for the elderly, with support from the Nixon family and local community leaders.
From a young cornet player in Michigan to the revered organist of Riverside’s Mission Inn, Newell Parker’s life was a symphony of service, music, and community engagement.
