The good ole' days?
The history and reality of California's Indian population are dismal. Under the Spanish, Indians were abused, under the Mexicans, Indians were abused, under the Americans, Indians were abused...
I don't find romantic tales about what might have been very enjoyable, given the historic and truthful realities. But this is how America viewed the romantic notion that was California. Everything was based on those good old days of Missions, Spaniards, Friars, Indians...Zorro...
A whole industry was created around the West Coast fantasy of Old California. American flocked to this magical land which gave unfettered access from the East via the railroad, and cheap tickets were available and abundant. Citrus groves were springing up like weeds, growers sending an almost inexhaustible supply to the metropolises of Chicago, New York City and all points in between. By the time Ramona was published, and orange picked in California would be on a table along the east coat within a week. Just a few short years earlier that shipping journey would have take roughly 6 months.
Whether it be for health reasons, job opportunity or simply a new life, the dream of California captivated America, and Helen Jackson bought into the myth completely.
Romona was a very popular book in its time. Most of the story revolves around the the southern part of California. It was also based on real people, albeit embellished for the storyline. Many of the Spanish locations portrayed in the book still exist and after reading it you can visit if you so choose. There is even an annual stage performance in Hemet, California (near present day Temecula) that is based on the novel.
The first edition of Ramona