Does Anyone Remember This Man 1951

[Clamhatten]

I lived in Laguna Beach in 1951 on Bluebird Canon Dr. This man would stand on the curb all day every day and wave to everyone. Red Skelton minic him on TV. Does anyone remember him

[Jojo]

Clamhatten,

Hopefully someone will see your post and remember!

Good luck!

[Will]

I live 5,000 miles from Laguna, but I'm pretty sure the guy you're talking about is Eiler Larsen...

http://members.virtualtourist.com/m/75b6b/b7f9c/a/?frdir=yes

http://www.bapudi.com/galleriah/greeter/

[Jojo]

Will - we knew we could count on you! ;)

Here's a copy & paste of the info:

Eiler Larsen was known as The Greeter of Laguna Beach, but to us the Laguna youth of the '50s and '60s, he was only Mr. Larsen. He stood at the corner of PCH and Forest Ave, sometimes under the hanging gate, but mostly on the beach side.

He heartily waved to every passer by. He called out "Hello there" in his deep voice. He gave people his crooked smile. He was happy when he greeted people, he was happy when he did the light gardening for the north end residents, he was happy almost all the time. He loved people; he loved the outdoor, the sun, the wind, and the beach. One thing he did not love was people who were rude and pointed at him. We never did. We all said “Hi Mr. Larsen” when we passed by him, we all loved him and respected him as our parents said we should.

[Will]

There is a big statue of him outside the pottery shop (I forget what it's called), right next to Sapphire resturant (which I strongly recommend by the way, if a little expensive).

I actually read about him before I travelled to the States. His name pops up in all the travel guides. So, when I was in Laguna Beach, I made sure to keep an eye out for the statues of him!

[Jojo]

When is your next trip to Laguna?

[Will]

Probably not for a few years... I'm still trying to pay for the trip I've just been on!

I'd love to go back at some point though. I had such an amazing time, easily my best holiday ever. I'd love to take my girlfriend there, maybe in 3 years time when she's finished university.

[Jojo]

Sounds good Will - I'm sure your girlfriend will love Laguna Beach! Perhaps a very nice university graduation present....Hmmmm.....;)

Keep on posting! :cool:

Jojo