Downtown San Bernardino has seen better days, but it’s still fun to visit and has more than a few fascinating old landmarks.
By John Murphy
Sunday I eschewed Redlands and got my walking fix in downtown San Bernardino.
Berdoo old-timers call it. Or “Dino” as the young kids like to say.
It’s a tough town. Seen better days. In 1977 it was named an All-American City. But three recessions around the end of the 20th century and start of the new millennium took their toll.
Now the downtown area is a shadow of its former self. But it’s where I worked as a sportswriter for the San Bernardino Sun from 2000 to 2009. So I have fond memories of the area, my old boss Paul Oberjuerge and my former co-workers.
The Sun building had its quirks though. It took up an entire city block and was built on the site of the old Fox Theater and a former hotel. The place was ancient and had more than its share of pests (besides the publisher and editors). They included cockroaches, rodents and bats. Yes, bats.
Passing the Sun I eventually reached the majestic San Bernardino County Court House, built in 1926. I’ve appeared there a time or two, but nothing serious.
Next to the courthouse is the San Bernardino County Government Center. Back in the day it had a cafeteria. I recall in September of 2000 having lunch there with the previous Sun prep sports editor, Louis Amestoy. I quizzed Louis about the job he was leaving and wrestled with my decision about taking it. Eventually I did and that’s how I got to work with such wonderful people as Oberjuerge, Chuck Hickey, Brian Goff, Suzie Ahn, Chris Wiley, Mirjam Swanson, Dennis Pope, Derek Rich, Michelle Pereda, Mark Reinhiller, Michelle Gardner, Harvey Cohen, Danny Summers, James Curran and the rest.
Having circled the old Sun, I headed down North D Street and took a right on Court. Good to see Molly’s Café still there and featuring a burger-and-drink special for $3.99. Then I padded past an ornate building that used to be a sports bar (I don’t recall the name) and past the equally old and beautiful American Trust Building where a pawn shop resides.
Hanging a right at E Street I eventually came upon the spectacular California Theatre at 562 W. 4th Street. The old girl was part of the Fox Theatre chain and opened in 1928. Can’t say I’ve been inside, but I’ve read it still has its original Wurlitzer Style 218 pipe organ. Humorist Will Rogers gave his last performance there before dying in a plane crash in 1935.
The dark skies had opened now and it was pouring rain, but I trudged on. My trek took me around the Rosa Parks Memorial Building on W. 4th Street, past Franky’s Donuts and Deli and then back to my car.
Out of the cold and rain at last, I checked the Fit app on my phone and saw I only walked a mile. But it was a pleasant stroll down memory lane and it’s one I’ll surely take again.
Main Street Dog 