So much has changed in the city of Tustin since the day I first moved here in the summer of 1971. Long gone are Hillview Bowl and Pharmacy, Mannie’s Restaurant (now Mimi’s Café), Blum’s Candy, Nahas department store and of course, the orange groves which once spanned the acres of land that now encompass the master planned community of Tustin Ranch. But after all these years, you can still catch a ride on the OCTA to Newport Beach from the bus stop at Larwin Square. And purchase or tune up a bike at Don’s Cyclery.
Pride of ownership certainly prevails in the ‘60s-era neighborhood where I grew up in the unincorporated section of town known as North Tustin. And like so many others in this charming hamlet, it remains virtually unchanged. If you’ve ever wondered why Tustin’s popularity is stronger than ever, just ask the natives and newcomers and the many second and third generation families living here. Many will tell you it’s because of its tight-knit small town appeal. Others might say it is suburbia at its best. And then many will comment about the outstanding recreational opportunities available right at your back door.
Bordering the cities of Orange, Santa Ana and Irvine, Tustin and North Tustin bring together a wonderful blend of old, new and well-established. It’s a place where custom and traditional architecture meets modern, vintage and Mediterranean. Where zero lot lines are nearly unheard of and quarter acre ones are commonplace. It’s also a place where award-winning schools raise the bar in education and shopping, golf and tennis draw enthusiasts from all over Southern California.
Founded in 1868 by Philadelphia farmer and entrepreneur Columbus Tustin, the predominantly farming community was slow to develop in comparison to neighboring towns, taking nearly 60 years before its population would reach 500. Though it was incorporated in 1927, the city’s growth didn’t hit its stride until the 1950s with the arrival of freeways and quality schools. Then with a boom in post-war industries, the subsequent population surge prompted the development of homes where those orange groves once grew in abundance. Today, according to the 2010 census, Tustin’s population exceeds 75,000.
If you’re interested in learning more about the city’s history, why not check out celebrated Old Towne where visitors can sign up for a historic walking tour that includes a stop at the local museum. Make an afternoon of it and browse a variety of specialty shops, or dine at any number of popular eateries such as Rutabegorz – located (since 1978) in a landmark building listed on the Register of National Historic Places and built by the son of Columbus Tustin in 1914. There’s also Tustin Marketplace and The District – two of Tustin’s best shopping, dining and entertainment destinations right across town, where you’ll find something fun to do or experience 365 days a year.
To find out more about the special community of Tustin and upcoming events, please visit: www.tustinca.org.
