The ship made steady progress. I could now see buildings and many other features of Catalina's only city, Avalon. City was really an over statement but town didn't do it justice. Avalon was nestled around the shore line of the bay. Everything was compact and occupied about ten city blocks except for the Casino which set about one mile from the main part of town. The Casino is a large round structure sets on a point of land that juts out into the bay. Visualize a shore line ringed by white buildings with red tile roofs with the white Casino setting off to the right. Add palm tree's and the green island hills rising behind the city. Avalon, the jewel within the jewel of Catalina. 

The Captain cut our speed to a crawl as we entered the bay. The ship had to dock without any help from tug boats. To much speed was dangerous with a vessel the size of the Catalina.

It was at this point that we first heard the chimes of the Avalon carillon. A really beautiful sound. My mother cried as the chimes said welcome.

Many smaller boats came out to meet our steamer. The people on these small boats waved and blew their horns.

The Captain and crew eased the Catalina into the dock and tied her off. They made it look so easy. The gangway was attached and we were now on the island offically. We had everything we owned except for the Ford in two duffle bags and an Army foot locker. I guess you could say were we were traveling light.

I recently talked with my brother about our arrival on Catalina and the trip taking us there. He was little more than a baby at that time in our lives. He admits that the trip is a little vague however we both agree that the experience of actually being there brought forth a feeling that neither of us ever felt again.