From lemon orchards to clean businesses, Chula Vista's past comes alive in this engaging narrative of its first 100 years. Chula Vista Centennial: A Century of People and Progress is a time capsule of milestones and memories, a treasure trove of facts and anecdotes. The story unfolds within the context of America's social history as major events, economic trends, and social movements set the stage for the City's growth. Author and acclaimed historian Steven Schoenherr unveils the layers of history and the memorable stories of Chula Vista's land and people, their struggles and ideals. Chula Vista Centennial chronicles this city's growth by decade with these human stories, both intimate and grand. Vintage photos, many published for the first time, capture real portraits of individuals and lend authenticity to the events unfolding in the narrative. Readers are treated to an insider's view of a century of people and progress in America's "Coolest City."

When Chula Vista turned 50 in 1961, civic and business leaders dreamed of a futuristic hub of skyscrapers and monorails with a major industrial center on the bayfront. Twenty-five years later, the 75-year-old City celebrated its anniversary in 1986 by looking back to its nostalgic agricultural roots while experiencing rapid growth on its eastern edge. Schoenherr's story culminates in the 21st century. Celebrating its 100-year anniversary, Chula Vista is a mature city, one that values its diversity and uniqueness, preserves the environment, and aspires to build a balanced and sustainable future.

In Chula Vista Centennial: A Century of People and Progress, author and acclaimed historian Steven Schoenherr provides an intimate glimpse into the lives of Chula Vista's people-their struggles, ideals, and achievements, and the bountiful land they call home. Decade by decade, layers of industry, politics, culture, and community shape the legacy of America's "Coolest City:'

About the City of Chula Vista

The City of Chula Vista, San Diego County's second largest municipality, celebrates its Centennial in 2011. With approximately 245,000 residents, the city is located just south of downtown San Diego. Chula Vista's 55 square miles traverse the Pacific coast to the west and the San Miguel Mountains to the east. Established neighborhoods with tree-lined avenues, pristine contemporary communities, world class entertainment venues, the nation's only warm weather Olympic Training Center, a historic downtown, and good job opportunities, all contribute to Chula Vista's wide appeal as an enterprising city with hometown charm.

About the Author

DR. STEVEN SCHOENHERR, a professor of history who taught for three decades at the University of San Diego, lives in Chula Vista with his wife, Carol. Their son, Jon, and daughter, Valerie, graduated from Hilltop High School and the University of San Diego. Schoenherr also co-wrote a book on the history of Bonita. Born in Fort Wayne, Indiana, Schoenherr earned his Ph.D. in history at the University of Delaware. Some of his publications have been multimedia productions, including video documentaries on San Diego's Gaslamp District and the Villa Montezuma. He also produced a DVD history of the National Security Agency for Spyfest '03, a DVD set of films and images for the Hearst Symposium '05, and a DVD collection of Universal Newsreels from 1929 to 1967, including a 6-disc set on the World War II era.

About the Chula Vista Centennial

The City of Chula Vista Centennial is a yearlong, once-in-a-lifetime celebration. Citywide events organized by and for the community commemorate our history and create a lasting legacy. Sponsored by community businesses, educational groups, and nonprofit organizations in partnership with the Centennial's Committee of 100 volunteers, events will continue through 2011. To learn more about the Centennial and to review a calendar of events and projects, visit the official website at www.chulavista100.com