Description

William "Bill" Kettner (1864-1930) came to San Diego as a young man, and, with a winning personality and love of the city, he became a prominent citizen elected to Congress as a Democrat for four terms, 1913-1921. Kettner was strongly supported by both Democrats and Republicans. While he was a congressman, he played a key role in bringing to San Diego the United States Navy base, which has been a major influence on the development of San Diego. Upon his retirement in 1921, Kettner Boulevard in San Diego was renamed to honor him. Producer Peter Hamlin and historian Clare Crane discuss with their guests the significant role played by Congressman Kettner in bringing Navy facilities to San Diego in the early years of the twentieth century, and the continuing impact of the Navy's presence on San Diego's economy, population, and urban development. Lucy DuVall discusses her research for her Master's thesis on the life and times of Kettner, focusing on his Congressional career and success in attracting Navy installations to San Diego. Lee Grissom describes the role of the Chamber of Commerce in supporting Kettner's efforts to establish the Naval Training Center and other installations. Rear Admiral Putt Storrs, Rear Admiral Robert Hickey, and Captain Don Smith reminisce about the early days of naval aviation in San Diego. William Mockler describes the effect on San Diego's harbor development of dredging to accommodate the deep-draft Navy ships. Daniel Weinberg comments on various aspects of the Navy's influence on the economy, ethnic mx, and land use of the San Diego region. Hamilton Marston discusses the Lynch-Appleyard report, and its suggestions for alternative development of various waterfront sites. Frank Curran talks about the first time he met Kettner. C. J. Stafford shares his recollections of working with Kettner, and gives some insights into his personal style. Names mentioned during the program include: Woodrow Wilson, George Dewey, and Franklin D. Roosevelt.