Stanley Harlan

Big Sur Historical Society Program

On June 25th the BSHS hosted another program and book signing at the Grange! This time we had long time Big Sur resident Stanley Harlan come and reminisce about his and his family’s life and times in Big Sur. It was a whole other world back then with abundant abalone and trout, herding the pigs through the coast range to King City, Highway One being dug by steam shovel right through their front yard and the hard work everyone, including the children, did as a way of life.

He told us how he was first brought to the coast by being placed in a kerosene can that had been cut out to make a “cradle” and was strapped on the side of a mule, the precursor of the modern day child’s car seat. And how one of his brothers “cradles” fell off a mule one day, down the hill side he went, but he was OK!

Stanley also talked about how his Mother arrived in Big Sur, coming from San Jose to King City by train, then by stage coach to a “spring wagon” with a two horse team, having to spend her first night in an Indian Cave. He spoke about her years spent as the school teacher as well.

” It was a whole other world back then with abundant abalone and trout, herding the pigs through the coast range to King City, Highway One being dug by steam shovel right through their front yard and the hard work everyone, including the children, did as a way of life.”

It was a great program with over 60 people attending! Stanley’s daughter and Grandson David helped to sell his book, “My Mom and Dad on the coast south of Big Sur” and Stanley signed copies for anyone who wanted them.

We also staffed a table at “The Village” on Sunday June 30^th with our books, brochures and some T shirts available to look at and/or purchase. While we didn’t make a lot of sales it was fun chatting with people and explaining what the Historical Society’s mission is. We also became a mini information booth answering tourist’s questions!

Stanley Harlan

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