Santa Catalina Island is a rocky island off the coast of Southern California.
The island name is often shortened to Catalina Island or just Catalina. it is 35 km long and 13 km across at its greatest width.
The island is located about 47 km south-southwest of Long Beach.
Geologically, Santa Catalina is part of the Chanel Islands of California and part of Los Angeles County in District 4.
In 1919, Wrigley (Wrigley’s chewing gum) bought out nearly every share-holder until he owned controlling interest in the Santa Catalina Island Company.
Wrigley invested millions in needed infrastructure and attractions to the island, including the construction of the Catalina Casino which opened on May 29, 1929.
Wrigley also sought to bring publicity to the island through events and spectacles.
Starting in 1921, the Chicago Cubs, also owned by Wrigley, used the island for the team’s spring training.
The Cubs continued to use the island for spring training until 1951, except during the war years of 1942 to 1945.
Following the death of Wrigley, Jr. in 1932, control of the Santa Catalina Island Company passed down to his son, who continued his father’s work improving the infrastructure of the island.
11-2022
The Catalina Casino is an entertainment facility. It is the largest building on the island and the most visible landmark in Avalon Bay when approaching the island from the mainland.
The large building contains a movie theater, ballroom, and formerly an island art and history museum. The Catalina Casino gets its name from the Spanish term casino, meaning a “gathering place” or establishment used for social interactions and sometimes shows and dances. Contrary to the common English usage of the word casino, this has never been a facility for gambling.
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