Flights of Fantasy!
Ever since the gold fever died down and men discovered that California had much more to offer than just gold, people have thronged to this golden state which is sometimes jokingly referred to as the "state of fruits and nuts". A booming economy, availability of jobs and a pleasant climate have ensured that there are few dull moments when you are in California
This DVD provides a peek into the enchanting lives of Californians over a forty-year period between 1917 and 1957! Kay Stinson, Aviator This historic film presents the record-breaking feat of noted lady aviator Kay Stinson who flew from San Diego to San Francisco at an average speed of 66 miles per hour, way back in 1917. Dignitaries and the excited crowd that welcomed her are seen. You will also see rare footage of a car race with the little mechanized monsters zipping over unpaved dirt roads;amidst clouds of dust.
Tribune - American Dream Picture This incredible film was the result of a contest held by the Tribune newspaper. People were invited to send in stories of unusual dreams. This one, sent by Mrs. L.L. Nicholson is a story of how a mother and father on their way to a picnic discover that their car isn't working and that their baby has disappeared mysteriously from the basket. An interesting search for the baby follows.
Dole Air Race This film records the air race from Oakland, California, to Hawaii for the coveted Dole Trophy. It covers preparations crews make prior to the race and the beginning of the race itself. The hopeful, excited faces of the crews shown prior to the race add a personal touch. Shots of an unfortunate plane that failed to take off and the many brave airmen who lost their lives at sea during the race make for a sad ending to an exciting event Norman Goddard and His Glider This 1929 film, shot in Stanford, California, captures the joys of riding in a glider with Norman Goddard. You will see how the glider takes off and lands, and experience the thrill of touching the skies as the engineless glider flies over the countryside Amateur Film: Bohemian Grove This film is a record of a picnic. You will see immense joy on the faces of men as they finish playing a baseball game and launch into a sumptuous picnic lunch. The cook, working overtime, manages to keep the plates and stomachs of the men filled. You and Your Bicycle This film was made as a bicycle safety film for children and was shot on the streets of Oakland and Berkeley, California. It features numerous examples of safe and unsafe cycle riding, simulated accidents, and scenes of post-World War II East Bay streets and sidewalks Amateur Skating Champs This brief newsreel announces the commencement of the National Roller Skating Championships held at the Open California Auditorium and carries some fascinating shots of participants as they roller skate their way into the record books and the hearts of the 1000 strong spectators. Babies on Parade This charming clip records the 1950 Ladera Park Baby Show. A few of the 1000 contestants are shown - some smiling, some crying and some giving their absolute best to win the coveted Diaper Derby. The couple that is crowned king and queen makes a pretty picture The Towers This intriguing film tells the story of Simon Rodilla, and the magnificent works of art he constructed - the Watts Towers in Los Angeles - all from scrap. The film contains shots of Rodilla at work and close-ups of the magnificent towers he designed and constructed single-handedly over thirty long and lonely years. The film is a deserving tribute to the spirit of people like Rodilla who do not allow circumstances to come in the way of their achieving their dreams. Running Time: DVD One: 01:00:14
EDITORIAL REVIEW: California has always been a land of free spirits, open hearts, easy-going living and loads of fun. The fact that so many popular songs are written about California- California Dreaming, If Your Going to San Francisco, Do you know Where to Stay in San Jose? San Bernardino and the ever-popularHotel California - speaks volumes of the immense popularity of the State.
Blessed with a semi arid climate which offers relatively warm winters, California offers residents a year-round opportunity to indulge in sports and other recreational activities - from skating to flying and from baby shows to air races.
This extraordinary DVD captures some of the electrifying action from the early years through some fascinating footage shot between 1917 and 1957.
Most of the films you will see are the work of amateurs, whose fascination for events such as races and shows is quite apparent. The spontaneity of these lens men lends an air of child-like glee to the footage, and makes them that much more memorable.
The two clips The Towersbear the hallmark of professional handling and are quite informative. The black and white footage along with the lack of audio in most films does little to reduce the excitement the films generate.
I spent the best part of an hour soaking myself in the excitement this DVD generates and I am certain that I will not be alone in voicing this sentiment. This is a great DVD for all collectors, regardless of age, sex or areas of interest - simply because it has something for everybody!
CUSTOMER'S REVIEWS: "It was very encouraging to see the initiative taken by a lady in entering an event that was dominated by men at the time. Kay Stinson's achievements are laudable and I am sure this clip will encourage many women to accept challenges they thought were beyond their reach."
Customer's Name : Alicia Montreal (Bakersfield, California)
"This is not the first time that I have placed an order for DVDs from a2zcds and this certainly isn't the first time that I am thrilled with my decision to do so. The clips on this DVD are well preserved despite the fact that films were shot almost a century ago, and the response from a2zcds, as always, was on the button! Hats off to everybody out there at a2zcds!"
Customer's Name : Jackie Campbell (Cypress, California)
There is no risk when you order Historic Travels US - Many Faces of California DVD today! We can make this offer because we know you will love this amazing DVD!
General Packaging Description: Our professionally-produced DVDs are shipped in retail Amaray style DVD cases just like you would find in a store. These beautifully packaged DVDs make great gifts and are themselves works of art. While we offer some of the best prices anywhere, we have never sacrificed quality for price.
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