San Diego history as told in 1978

In November 1978, News 8's Shirley Clum shared lots of interesting tidbits about the history of San Diego in a series of reports.

Shirley's trip back in time went all the way to the 1880s when people were flocking to America's Finest City at a rate of 6,000 per month - coming by steamer or rail. New arrivals grabbed up land, especially Downtown, driving up prices.

Before the boom, Shirley reported, almost all of Ocean Beach (then known as Muscle Beach) had been offered up for $500 total - and there were no takers. Two years later, lots in the area went for $60 each and two months after that they went for $300 each.

Next up in Shirley's history lesson, he shares the back story of the Broadway Pier and controversy around its creation comparing it to debates over a San Diego-San Ysidro rail line that was proposed in the late 1970s.

In part two of the history piece, Shirley found a home in San Diego that was still lit using gas lamps only! He goes on to illuminate (pun intended) viewers on some of the industries San Diego was once known for - including ostrich farms, brick making, butcher shops, and cigar making. Shirley also talked about the history of various careers in San Diego.

At the end of the piece, Shirley teases ahead to part three on San Diego's history promising to feature the beaches and bays of the city. Our archives editor is in looking to unearth this lost third part to add to our collection soon.