The seven caves of La Jolla sit at the base of the cliff side, along the waters below coast walkway. Sunny Jim's is the only cave accessible by means other that water. Most of the other caves are only visited by kayak, or swimming. Over the years, visitors have been attracted to the caves, and the history that this hand dug tunnel entails.
Approximately 10 to 15 feet north of the present Cave Store along the northwestern entrance of the Coast Walkway stood the once called cave curio store. Smugglers once used this cave to bring in illegal Chinese and other immigrants, and contraband whiskey. Nationwide prohibition was ratified in 1920, and Federal Prohibition agents were given the task of enforcing the law. Prohibition is also referred to as part of the Temperance movement, which wanted to make alcohol illegal. The humanitarian effort stated that the goal was to better the lives of the common people.
The steep shaft of the tunnel dig began in 1903, as two men used a wheelbarrow and a rope, to haul the sandstone up and down the 125-foot tunnel. There were no stairs in those days. Today you can easily walk down the steps inside the cave store, to visit the inside of the cave, the 133 steps and a wooden platform, and guide rail were added after Prof. Schultz purchased the property in 1920.
The property was purchases from Miss Anna Held, who started this Green Dragon colony. The colony was settled by fellow German-Americans who had gravitated to the oceanfront village of La Jolla, obviously now we can see why.
The early life in La Jolla was pleasant despite the living conditions then being what we today would consider primitive. Every one knew everyone, doors where never locked, and the La Jolla area grew into a cultural center for the nearby military, families, and visitors to gather for dance and celebration at the Pavilion at the Cove, or even a Sunday outing.
The La Jolla Caves and Cove became a magical spot that would become a place of inspiration for many authors, poets, artists, and musicians through the years. The unique area, and its offerings were a remarkable influence on the early history of La Jolla, and what the La Jolla Shores and Ecological Reserve area has grown to be.
