Seasonal stories & historical reading
History of Novato, California, USA
Journey back in time to Novato, California, USA
Explore the history, people, photographs, newspapers, postcards, and genealogy connected to Novato, California, USA.
About Novato
Novato, along with the rest of California, became part of the United States on February 2, 1848. Early pioneers included Joseph Sweetser and Francis De Long who bought 15,000 acres in the mid-1850s and planted orchards and vineyards.
Novato Nostalgia: Vintage Photos, Ads, and Postcards

"Hamilton AFB, at San Pablo Bay in Novato, California was closed in 1976. The airfield was transferred to the Army as Hamilton Army Airfield, and the housing was transferred to the Navy. Both facilities were closed in the mid-1990s. USCG housing and west coast environmental disaster strike force.) Hamilton Field, formerly Hamilton Air Force Base, was owned and operated by the United States Army. It was surplused by the military, and was officially vacated in 1995. As of 1994 the airfield was no longer actively used by the Army."
virtualglobetrotting.com

A New Garden Hotel
GRAND OPENING FRI.; SAT., SUN., JULY 20-22, TOMAHAWK LODGE!!! Relax and Enjoy Your Favorite Beverage in Air Conditioned Comfort
1 NOW OPEN DAILY FROM 11 A.M.-34 A.M.
And In The Tomahawk Dining Room You Will Enjoy Superb Dining and a Delightful View of Nearby Hills.
SERVING LUNCHES & DINNERS 7 DAYS A WEEK
True western hospitality prevails throughout Tomahawk Lodge
In the Tomahawk Dining Room you'll recognize immediately a relaxing atmosphere and a sincere friendly desire to make your dining-out a memorable experience. Tomahawk Lodge Dining Room "Entrance to the Tomahawk Lodge Lounge and Motel"
As you would expect, the ''Tomahawk Lounge" is Most Inviting! Tastefully furnished to insure your every comfort. air conditioned ... yes, a simply charming atmosphere prevails. Visit us soon!
TOMAHAWK LODGE-Owned & Operated by R. C. "Doc" Briggs & Ralph Briggs
Daily Independent Journal
San Rafael, California
Thursday, July 19, 1962

Finest in Bowling
Nero's Dining and Cocktails
Wrecker's ball soon to replace bowling balls at Marin landmark
Michael Dougan, OF THE EXAMINER STAFF Published 4:00 am, Sunday, August 29, 1999
"NOVATO - For 39 years, the quiet cacophony of crashing pins, punctuated by sharp shouts of delight and disappointment, has echoed through the cavernous interior of Novato's Nave Lanes.
Coming soon: silence.
Tuesday, the last strike will be struck, the last ball bowled. Nave Lanes will enter the annals of history, another landmark lying empty until the bulldozers show up.
The pink architectural eccentricity just east of U.S. 101 on Novato's south side will be razed to make way for retail outlets, erasing one more icon of Old Marin from the county's dense commercial corridor...
...Rich and Bob Nave sold their property to Idaho-based American Stores Inc., which owns Lucky Markets, for an undisclosed amount. American Stores already had purchased 6 adjacent acres on... Read more
Genealogy gifts & optional resources
Genealogy Gifts & Resources Related to NOVATO

CALIFORNIA Dreamin' Ancestry Coffee Mug - Genealogy
Showcasing a witty caption that reads, "I'm from California! That explains a lot about my love for surfing at sunrise and wine tasting at sunset," this mug is designed to bring a smile to your face with every sip.

CALIFORNIA - NEVADA - Lake Tahoe Shower Curtain - Crystal Clear Waters with Mark Twain Quote - Nature-Inspired Bathroom Décor
Transform your bathroom into a serene escape with this Lake Tahoe Shower Curtain, featuring the breathtaking crystal-clear waters of Lake Tahoe and an inspiring quote from Mark Twain. Whether you want to relive your favorite Tahoe memories, bring the beauty of the lake inside your home, or add a stunning touch to your Lake Tahoe vacation rental, this shower curtain is the perfect addition to any nature lover’s space. Designed to complement a Lake Tahoe home, it enhances the ambiance with a refreshing, tranquil vibe that captures the lake’s timeless allure.
Discover Novato: History, News, Travel, and Stories
Explore the events, newspaper stories, people, and moments that shaped Novato through the years.
TOPOGRAPHY. - Along the Pastern side of the township there is quite a section of salt marsh land, which is, of course, low and level, but points of the high land extend to the bay, and serve to break up the monotony of the landscape, and to add to the beauty of the scene as viewed in passing up the bay on board the steamer. The remainder of the country is very broken and mountainous. The mountains are not very high generally, and the most extensive range, and the only one deserving a name, is called the...
Start your exploration at the Marinwood Plaza, a local shopping center that offers a variety of shops and restaurants. It's a great place to grab a coffee, shop for local goods, or enjoy a meal.
Indian Valley Golf Club:
If you're a golf enthusiast, the Indian Valley Golf Club is a beautiful 18-hole course surrounded by scenic hills. It's a great place to spend a relaxing day on the greens.
Mount Burdell Open Space Preserve:
Nature lovers should head to Mount Burdell Open Space Preserve. With its hiking trails and stunning views, it's an excellent spot for a day hike or a picnic. Don't forget your camera!
Novato History Museum:
Dive into Novato's rich history at the Novato History Museum. Learn about the town's evolution from its early days to the present. It's a small but fascinating museum with exhibits that showcase the local heritage.
Pacheco Plaza:
Pacheco Plaza is another charming shopping center in Novato. It's known for its boutique...
Discover YOUR Roots: Novato Ancestry
Explore ancestors connected to Novato through births, deaths, marriages, cemeteries, and local genealogy resources.
Ancestors Who Were Born or Died in Novato, California, USA
We currently have information about 3 ancestors who were born or died in Novato.
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