I have always been drawn to Temecula's rich history. When we first moved here, in 1993, I became a docent in the little museum started by old timer Tony Tobin and housed in the old Sears Catalog store. It was a unique opportunity for me and the catalyst for much of what I did while living here.

And now, that same rich history beckons us and what better place to learn more than with the Temecula Valley Historical Society.
How could we pass this up? "Learn the secrets of the Palomar Inn Hotel at the Temecula Valley Historical Society's next historical society presentation at 6 pm on Monday, January 28 at the Little Temecula History Center, the red barn next to Kohls in south Temecula. Craig Owens, author of HAUNTED BY HISTORY VOL. 1 and a fine art photographer, will share insights from his extensive research into the real history behind the Palomar."
Mr. Owens' knowledge was extensive. Some facts we knew and some surprised us. For instance, in 1921 the book The Pride of Palomar, by Peter B. Kyne was released and became a huge success. Palomar Mountain is a local, historic landmark and very romanticized in this book, thus generating tourism for Temecula... the small town between San Diego and Los Angeles.
We were introduced to the characters and players that made Temecula happen. There were bootleggers, movie stars and various other individuals who moved and shook this little town.
After learning the minute details of many of Temecula's historical events, we moved into the here and now. When one googles the Hotel Palomar, mention of it being haunted is frequent. Mr. Owens believes it and even showed an amazing image of a gentleman ghost he captured while photographing the hotel.
Rich in history, strategically located in the heart of Old Town, we love this hotel. I hope it can continue for another 100 years, intriguing and welcoming tourists who are traveling through.