Monterey: Presidio, Pueblo, and Port (CA)

by J.D. Conway

Monterey, California conjures images of a coastal city rimmed by crystal clear waters and bolstered by tourism; yet these edenic views belie the community's often turbulent history, originating with the Native Americans who lived here for a millennium and Hispanic exploration and colonization. At each stage in the growth of this city, residents have successfully overcome the division of multiple rule, diverse nationalities, and fledgling identities to fashion a homeland in the western landscape of America that is deservingly proud of its character and history.

Genres: History

160 pages, Paperback

First published June 30, 2003

Reviews

[Rachel · Rating 5 out of 5]

Conway expertly chronicles the region's development from a Spanish military outpost (presidio) to a bustling pueblo and vital port. The book delves into the social, cultural, and economic forces that shaped Monterey, offering readers a vivid picture of its transformation over centuries. Supported by extensive research and illustrated with historical photos, Conway's work is both informative and captivating. This book is a must-read for history enthusiasts and anyone interested in California's complex and fascinating past.

[Tom Walsh]

This book gives an excellent historical account of Monterey from its earliest inhabitants up to the present day. The book does an excellent job of accurately recording what happened throughout the centuries but has a very easy to read historical style that makes the facts flow together more like a story.

[Leah Nicole · Rating 5 out of 5]

Monterey: Presidio, Pueblo, and Port (great alliteration) is a fact-filled book of Monterey from the history of her Indigenous people to the Spanish settling the area to statehood to the canning industry and beyond.

[John · Rating 4 out of 5]

A good, concise history of the City of Monterey, California from pre-history through the end of the Twentieth Century.