Staff-Produced Documentary Chronicles Community’s Century-Long Journey
Cathedral City’s talented city staff unveiled their exclusive short film “Cathedral City: A City Built on Grit and Grace” during Saturday’s commemoration of the 100th anniversary of the city’s first designated land marker and map.
The documentary takes viewers on a compelling journey through time, chronicling the remarkable transformation from the ancestral lands of the Agua Caliente Band of Cahuilla Indians to the vibrant, diverse community that Cathedral City has become today.
Beginning with the Agua Caliente Band of Cahuilla Indians, who stewarded this desert land for generations through seasonal migration patterns and sustainable practices, the film traces the area’s evolution through pivotal moments in history. From Colonel Henry Washington’s 1855 naming of Cathedral Canyon for its cathedral-like rock formations, to the 1925 subdivision map that launched modern development by four Los Angeles developers, each era contributed to the community’s unique character.
The documentary captures Cathedral City’s colorful past, including its days as a haven for speakeasies and gambling clubs in the 1930s, the transformative 1946 flood that altered the canyon’s landscape, and the post-World War II suburban boom that brought families and new opportunities to the desert.
Particularly compelling are the stories of the city’s cultural pioneers: Lawrence Crossley, one of the first Black Americans in the Coachella Valley who championed inclusive housing developments like Tramview Village; renowned artist Agnes Pelton, whose adobe home-studio became the city’s first historic landmark; and Val Samuelson, whose versatile artistic talents helped establish Palm Springs Life Magazine and the Idyllwild Arts Academy.
The film chronicles Cathedral City’s journey from rural outpost to incorporated city in 1981, and its evolution into today’s vibrant community known for cultural celebrations like the International Hot Air Balloon Festival, Taste of Jalisco, LGBT+ Days, and other beloved events that turn streets into stages for food, music, and community pride.
A Labor of Love
Produced entirely in-house by Cathedral City’s dedicated staff, the film weaves together rare historical footage, photographs, and compelling narratives that capture the essence of what makes Cathedral City unique. The title “A City Built on Grit and Grace” reflects the resilience, determination, and spirit of community that has defined Cathedral City throughout its development.
Historic Premiere
The documentary premiered at the Mary Pickford Theatre in Downtown Cathedral City as part of a special celebration marking the centennial of the area’s first land marker and map designation in 1925. The event also featured a screening of the classic 1963 film “Palm Springs Weekend,” which was famously filmed at local venues including the Desert Palms Inn.
Honoring Our Complete History
The film thoughtfully acknowledges the full timeline of the area’s history, honoring the Agua Caliente Band of Cahuilla Indians as the original stewards of this land while chronicling the various communities and developments that followed. This comprehensive approach ensures that Cathedral City’s story is told with respect for all who have called this desert home.
Watch the Documentary
For community members who were unable to attend Saturday’s (August 30th) historic celebration, the complete documentary is now available to view, offering everyone the opportunity to discover the untold stories and pivotal moments that shaped Cathedral City into the thriving community it is today.
The documentary was created by Cathedral City staff as part of the city’s commitment to preserving and sharing local history. Saturday’s celebration was presented by the Cathedral City Historic Preservation Committee with support from Canyon Print & Signs.
Acknowledgements and Further Reading:
- Cathedral City Historical Society
- Robert Hillery’s “Cathedral City Early Years 1925 to 1981”
- Ann Japenga’s historical articles on desert artists
- Denise Cross’s research contributions
- The late Evan Lindquist for historical photography
- Los Angeles Public Library archives
- University of California, Santa Barbara archives
- PBS SoCal
