Sometimes the male species of Genus Homo Sapiens commonly called “man” overlooks the gentler sex who made his world possible. So at this writing it is our pleasure to mention some of the women pioneers who generously donated funds for the original Hillcrest sign that has livened up the neighborhood over the years. We especially honor our old friend Rolga Lake (who was recuperating in the hospital); Harriett Miller (the sparkplug for the sign who later moved to Alpine); Ada Jones (an accountant for 37 years at 3821 Fifth Avenue who helped the association through financial strains); Mercedes Verdugo (The Little Shop); Margaret Lucas (Ladies Apparel); Mrs. J.E. Jennison (who built a beautiful home in 1911 at 3774 Fifth Avenue);

Dr. Gwaldys Morgan Lyle (osteopathic physician and surgeon); Mrs. Jane Adams (retired from the Dress Shop at 3923 Fifth Avenue); Jane Johnson (The Posey Shoppe, 531 University Avenue); Josephine Compton (Ahrens’ Bakery, retired); Letha Horton (retired); Mrs. B.W. Truax (retired Realtor); Miss Nell Cave (piano teacher at 4045 First Avenue. Nell taught many Hillcrest and Mission Hills residents and once shocked neighbors with the popular jazz piece “Yes, We Have No Bananas.”)

First published in HillQuest, an Urban Guide to 92103 & Beyond, volume 3