Ventura in Ventura County, California — The American West (Pacific Coastal)
Jesse Owens
The Greatest Track Star of the Century
| | Four Events, Four Records | |
Photographed by Craig Baker, November 6, 2023
1. Jesse Owens Marker
In 45 minutes on May 25, 1935, Jesse Owens, 21, broke three world records and equaled a fourth. It was the greatest one-day performance in the recorded history of the sport. On that day, in the Big Ten Track Meet, the Ohio State sophomore tied the world record for the 100 yard dash and set records in the 220, the 220 hurdles and the long jump - Conference records that have never been broken. One year later he won four Gold Medals at the Berlin Olympics, making a powerful statement against racism. But despite world records and gold medals, what the Olympic hero found at home was disregard. He was reduced to doing stunt performances and exhibitions. In the early 1950's Jesse Owens raced Johnny Barrios' quarter horse "Shorty T" at the Ventura County Fairgrounds. It was only after the civil rights movement that Jesse Owens - superb athlete - was acknowledged and honored.
Topics and series. This historical marker is listed in these topic lists: African Americans • Sports. In addition, it is included in the Believe It or Not series list. A significant historical date for this entry is May 25, 1935.
Location. 34° 16.636′ N, 119° 17.859′ W. Marker is in Ventura, California, in Ventura County. It is on Figueroa Street just north of Harbor Boulevard, on the right when traveling north.
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Regionally, this marker is in Greater Los Angeles, on Central Coast, and in the Transverse Ranges. It is also on the American Pacific Coast. Globally, it is in North America, on the Ring of Fire, in the Pacific Rim, in the Western Hemisphere, in the Western World, and in the Anglosphere. Historically, it finds itself in what was once New Spain and also Mexicos Alta California.
Other nearby markers. At least 8 other markers are within walking distance of this marker: Chumash Hutash Fiesta (about 500 feet away, measured in a direct line); Elwell House (about 600 feet away); Ada McCoskey Love House (about 700 feet away); Carlo Hahn House (approx. 0.2 miles away); San Buenaventura China Alley Memorial (approx. 0.2 miles away); Peirano Market (approx. Ό mile away); Lavanderia (approx. Ό mile away); Mission San Buenaventura (approx. Ό mile away). Touch for a list and map of all markers in Ventura.
Additional keywords. Tortilla Flats
Photographed by Craig Baker, November 6, 2023
2. Jesse Owens Marker
Photographed by Craig Baker, November 6, 2023
3. Tortilla Flats Mural
Under the 101 Freeway overpass. Tortilla Flats was a neighborhood displaced by the freeway.
Credits. This page was last revised on November 15, 2023. It was originally submitted on November 15, 2023, by Craig Baker of Sylmar, California. This page has been viewed 439 times since then and 29 times this year. Photos: 1, 2, 3. submitted on November 15, 2023, by Craig Baker of Sylmar, California.
