Countdown to 2000: Lifestyles

Amy R. Spurgeon

In the 1950s, lifestyles in Newport-Mesa were shaped by the same

influences as the rest of the country: Tupperware, TV dinners and rock

‘n’ roll.

The area saw a major boom in population after the war. After getting a

taste of the West Coast during the war, many servicemen from the East

decided to move their families and soak up the sunshine.

As such, a beach club for the community was in high demand.

The Balboa Bay Club heavily influenced the lifestyles of Newport Beach

residents during this era. The family club, which has opened in 1948, was

the social center of Newport Beach for a long time.

And the Hollywood-Washington power connection was beginning to emerge.

Hollywood notables that frequented the club included John Wayne, Humphrey

Bogart, Lauren Bacall, Greta Garbo, Bob Hope and Jack Benny. Politicians

were also seen -- Richard Nixon, his family and staff, Barry Goldwater

and Ronald and Nancy Reagan.

It was the place to be seen.

Costa Mesans during this time were celebrating the incorporation of their

city, which happened in 1953.

Costa Mesa Historical Society president Dave Gardner, 70, a 61-year Costa

Mesa resident, said the ‘50s were all about growth.

Farms turned into retail shopping centers and housing developments began

to sprout.

Movies and television provided a means of escape for many residents

during this time. Because there was only one movie theater in Costa Mesa,

many residents traveled to Santa Ana to catch a show.

It was a time when both areas were beginning to see what great

possibilities lie ahead.

Sources:

The Bay Window: 50th Anniversary; The Magazine of the Balboa Bay Club.