Nancy Call

Location of Interview
Collection Name

Port of Los Angeles Centennial Oral History Project

Description

The Port of Los Angeles celebrated its Centennial on December 9, 2007.  As part of the Port of Los Angeles Centennial Oral History Project, these interviews feature various members of the Los Angeles Harbor Area community who were interviewed in 2007 to document different eras in Port history.

Interviewer
Audio
Biographical Sketch

Nancy Call is a descendant of Phineas Banning, a prominent figure in the history of Los Angeles' harbor development. Her lineage traces back to Banning, who was instrumental in the founding of Wilmington and played a significant role in the growth of transportation in the region. Call's familial connection extends through the generations, with Banning's sons continuing the transportation legacy and expanding into areas such as the acquisition of Catalina Island. The family's historical involvement in shipping and their association with the Matson Company highlight their enduring influence on the port of Los Angeles. Call's insights into her great-grandfather's endeavors provide a personal perspective on the historical narrative of Los Angeles' harbor.

Scope and Content Note
The interview with Nancy Call offers an in-depth exploration of Phineas Banning's contributions to the development of the harbor in Los Angeles. The discussion encompasses Banning's personal background, the establishment of Wilmington, and the effects of the Civil War on the region. Call provides a detailed account of Banning's vision and determination in fostering the growth of transportation in Los Angeles, including the construction of railroads. The conversation touches upon the Free Harbor Fight, a pivotal moment in the city's history, which resulted in Los Angeles securing the harbor. Additionally, the interview addresses the Banning family's continued involvement in the transportation industry and their impact on shipping through the Matson Company. A unique aspect of the Civil War era, the unsuccessful experiment with camels as pack animals, is also mentioned. Call's narrative emphasizes the lasting legacy of Banning's foresight in the development of the harbor, which has significantly shaped the city's trajectory.


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