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The major 'Cat-Struction' project is under way on N. Santa Cruz Avenue. But working on downtown roadways is nothing new in Los Gatos. In 1886, the local newspaper declared that the muddy dirt streets of town could be 'well-nigh impassable except for men in boots and women in bloomers and boots.' The installation of redwood plank crossings was recommended. In dry months, a horse-drawn sprinkler wagon attempted to keep the dust under control. W. Main Street was one of the first streets paved, pictured here circa 1914. At right is the Hofstra Block (now the La Canada building). Lyman Feathers, Los Gatos police chief from 1939 to 1943, operated a taxicab company in a tiny room behind the door after he resigned from the police force. The tower of the 1889 First Baptist Church is seen at the end of the street.
100 years ago
The scorching hot weather of the week is working a hardship on the orchardists all over the state. In this valley the apricots, particularly the larger fruit, where it is exposed to the sun, are burning seriously, unfitting them for either canning or drying. The present hot spell has already lasted for six days, which is extremely unusual, as our hot spells generally come in threes. (Los Gatos News, July 14, 1905)
75 years ago
Next time you call central and she gives you Los Gatos 1-2-3 when asked for Los Gatos 1-2-5, be patient and don't lose your temper. Just remember that ten girls at the central exchange handle in the course of a year something like two million calls. This is some job, and these ten girls would be a little less than human if they didn't make some mistakes. Of course, most of the long distance calls are to San Jose. (Los Gatos Mail News, July 24, 1930)
50 years ago
From service station attendant to vice-president of Shell Oil company is the proud record of Harold L. Curtis, a native Los Gatan. A graduate of Los Gatos elementary and high schools, Curtis began work for the company in 1923 at the station at North Santa Cruz and Saratoga Avenue. Since that time he has served in various capacities for Shell throughout the country. (Los Gatos Times and Saratoga Observer, July 22, 1955)
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Photograph courtesy of the Museums of Los Gatos