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Books About Manhattan Beach

The Manhattan Beach Historical Society is proud to sell the following books that offer a detailed history of our town. All books are available to purchase at the Red House in Polliwog Park. They're also a free gift to Sponsors or Supporters of the Manhattan Beach Historical Society.

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Jan Dennis

A Thread In a Tapestry

Written by Manhattan Beach historian Jan Dennis, "A Thread in the Tapestry" tells the story of the development of El Camino Real, now known as Sepulveda Boulevard. It includes photographs and text detailing the history of the longstanding highway.

$15

Member Price: $13.50

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Jan Dennis

A Walk Beside The Sea

This 200-page coffee table book includes more than 250 photographs that show the story of Manhattan Beach as if grew from a land of sand dunes to the popular beachfront town it is today.

$20

Member Price: $18

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Jan Dennis

Shadows on the Dunes: An Architectural History of Manhattan Beach

"Shadows on the Dunes" tells the architectural history of Manhattan Beach. Highlights include the evolution of the beach cottage to the megamansion that has taken its place. This 200-page hardcover book shares the stories and pictures of the ever-growing town.

$20

Member Price: $18

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Jan Dennis

Skirts Across the Sand

Women have been at the heart of the Manhattan Beach community since its inception, and "Skirts Across the Sand" tells the stories of some of the lesser-known figures of Manhattan Beach History. It's a 200-page hardcover book full of pictures and history.

$20

Member Price: $18

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Jan Dennis & Luke Jelmini

The History of the Manhattan Beach Fire Department

The Manhattan Beach Fire Department began as a group of local volunteers before becoming an organized network of first responders. Discover their history in the most recent book from Manhattan Beach historian Jan Dennis. 

$15

Member Price: $13.50

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Bonnie Beckerson

I'll Take Manhattan

"I'll Take Manhattan" is a pictorial history of Manhattan Beach, CA. It includes some of the most popular images in the Historical Society's collection in one hardcover book. 

$15

Member Price: $13.50

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Bonnie Beckerson

Manhattan Beach 90266: A Pictorial History by the Manhattan Beach Historical Society

Not only does "Manhattan Beach 90266" feature iconic images from the birth of the seaside town to the end of the 20th Century, but it also includes personal recollections from pioneer residents.

$15

Member Price: $13.50

Beach Cottage Museum at Polliwog Park

1601 Manhattan Beach Boulevard

Manhattan Beach, California 90266

 

The Museum is temporarily closed for cleaning and repairs. Please check back soon for our reopening.

 
Admission: FREE but donations are gratefully accepted

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Email

historian@manhattanbeachhistorical.com

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By Mail

Post Office Box 3355

Manhattan Beach, California 90266

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MBHS is a 501 (c) 3 nonprofit organization: ID #95-4232564

2026 All Rights Reserved.

The Manhattan Beach Historical Society.

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