The Harbor Area Podcast

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Step inside one of San Pedro’s most beloved landmarks — the historic Muller House. Built in 1899 and moved not once, but twice, this Queen Anne–style home holds over a century of stories, from its shipbuilder owner William Muller’s handcrafted woodwork to its role today as the headquarters of the San Pedro Bay Historical Society.

In this episode, Joel welcomes back Mona Reddick and Donna Dragich to share the fascinating history of the Muller family, the house’s unique journey across town, and the preservation efforts that keep it a vibrant community treasure. You’ll hear tales of tugboats, mules hauling houses, reclaimed shipyard wood, and a family’s deep connection to San Pedro’s maritime past.

Whether you’re a history buff, a fan of old homes, or simply love a good local story, this episode will transport you straight to the heart of the harbor.

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After a brief hiatus, we're back with a deep dive into the organization keeping San Pedro's rich history alive - the San Pedro Bay Historical Society. This episode introduces two remarkable women who serve as guardians of our harbor's heritage: Mona Dallas Reddick, the Society's president and lifelong educator, and Donna Dragich, board member and fourth-generation San Pedran.

Their story begins with loss - when urban renewal threatened historic Beacon Street in the late 1960s, concerned citizens formed the Society to ensure future generations would know what came before. Today, their mission extends far beyond preserving buildings. From beautiful painted tin trays rescued from the demolished Shanghai Red's waterfront bar to century-old ledgers showing who purchased the very first lots in town, they maintain an extraordinary collection of artifacts that connect us tangibly to our past.

The conversation reveals fascinating hidden histories - the African-American community established here before the 1920s, the Japanese-owned storefronts on Terminal Island they're fighting to preserve, and the Mexican Hollywood neighborhood recently commemorated with official signage. Through landmark plaques, educational programs, and partnerships with local schools and organizations, the Society works tirelessly to document San Pedro's uniquely diverse community before more stories are lost forever.

As development continues transforming our harbor, their work becomes increasingly urgent. "What exists today," Mona reflects, "in forty years from now is going to be somebody else's history. The work we do now is really with a nod to the future." For newcomers and multi-generational residents alike, understanding this shared heritage creates a deeper sense of community and belonging. Ready to explore your harbor's past? Visit their archives, attend an event, or consider becoming a member to help keep these essential stories alive for generations to come.

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This episode is all about the Korean Bell which sits atop Angel's Gate Park overlooking the Pacific Ocean.

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In this episode I speak with two guests about the San Vicente Lighthouse and some paranormal activity that has folks in town talking about ghosts that still reside there.

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In this episode I will talk about the iconic Angel's Gate Lighthouse located in San Pedro, California.

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In this episode, I interview Joseph Gray and we talk about the Point Fermin Lighthouse.

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In this episode I interview a very special guest; my mother. When she was just five years old, she and her sister would visit the Pike. In this episode, mom recounts some of her most favorite memories of the pike.

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This episode is About Elmer J. McCurdy. Elmer was a criminal who ended up being part of one of the attractions at the Pike. Listen in to learn what attraction Elmer belonged to.

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This episode is about Charles I.D. Looff and his contributions to the Pike in Long Beach, California.

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