Perched high upon Mount McGroarty, the Cross of San Ysidro stands as a beacon. It overlooks the Tujunga community. Today, we will explore the story behind this towering landmark. We will delve into its origins. We will understand its significance to the people of Sunland-Tujunga.
The Cross of San Ysidro has a fascinating history. It begins in the 1920s with a group called the Millionaires’ Club of Happiness and Contentment. These civic leaders wanted a landmark for their town. In 1921, they decided on a giant cross atop a mountain.
Developer Marshall Hartranft, known as the father of Tujunga, donated land for the project. The chosen peak was named Mount McGroarty. The acre of land became Pasko Park. This honored one of Tujunga’s pioneer ministers.
Finished for Easter in 1923, the Cross of San Ysidro was a sight to behold. George Harris, a local artist, built its base with native stone. He was known as a nature builder. His crew included Serbo-Croatian and Mexican immigrants. They had built many stone structures in Tujunga. Bolton Hall was the most famous.
Arthur Benton designed the 30-foot concrete cross. He was a renowned architect. He designed Los Angeles landmarks like Riverside’s Mission Inn. Benton volunteered his services. He was in town to design the McGroarty House.
The name San Ysidro carries deep meaning. He is the patron saint of farmers and laborers. Born in poverty in 11th century Spain, he was a generous man. He gave all he had to others regardless of their faith. Miracles were attributed to him. Angels helped him plow so he could help others. He represented hard work and charity in a multicultural world. The founders of Tujunga wanted to embody this spirit.
The first Easter sunrise service took place on April 1, 1923. Hundreds attended. Trumpeters announced the sunrise as it hit the cross. A multi-denominational service dedicated the mountaintop. Every Easter since, people gather here in the dark for sunrise services.
The Tujunga Kiwanis Club maintains the Cross of San Ysidro. They repaint it regularly. In 2010, it became a Los Angeles Cultural-Historic Landmark. Even when teen vandals toppled the cross in 1975, the city restored it.
As you stand here, consider the Cross of San Ysidro as more than just a monument. It is a symbol of tolerance, hard work, and generosity. It represents the spirit of the Tujunga community. It reminds us of the values of its founders. The Cross of San Ysidro embodies the essence of a modest, tolerant community of working people.