| In the late
1930s Balboa became a favorite location for unloading illegal liquor. The gambling ship
"The Rex" which was usually anchored off the Santa Monica coast was also
used to transport the illegal shipments to Balboa. The Rex would lay anchor just outside
of the 12-mile limit and speed boats would bring the goods into Balboa Bay. 
The Washington Street Public Dock
The Washington Street public dock was point
where the speed boats would unload the liquor
. |
.
On the nights when the deliveries where made you would see a long line of big black sedans
waiting their turn to pick up their allotment. And of course on those nights, there was
never a cop within miles of Balboa.
The Corner Of Washington Street
And East Bay Avenue
At the corner Of East Bay Avenue and
Washington Street was a bath house. Many feel that beneath the floor of this bath house
was a secret chamber which was used to stash quantities of the liquor for later
distribution.
|
Today The Secret Chamber Is
Used To Store Beer Kegs
Evidence of this can be seen in
the floor of the Balboa Saloon which now occupies this location. There is a large
pit beneath the floor which is now used to store kegs of beer. Stop in and take a look |
