A collection of ephemera (seven pinback buttons) from various events in Escondido, California.

Kathe Schwent Robbins was a teacher with the Escondido High School District and President of the San Marcos Friends of the Library (https://www.sandiegouniontribune.com/sdut-san-marcos-library-sleuths-trace-family-treasures-2011dec19-story.html). On October 8, 1888, Escondido became an incorporated city. Hundreds of community members joined in the October 6 [2013] festivities to commemorate the city's 125th anniversary (https://www.escondido.org/happy-birthday-escondido.aspx). When it debuted in 1995, First Night Escondido was one of dozens of arts-centered New Year’s Eve events staged in cities across the country. The local celebration featured multiple stages with live music and dance performances, fireworks, strolling entertainers, children’s craft areas and a food court. Originally spread over several downtown city blocks, First Night Escondido attracted about 20,000 participants at the height of its popularity. The national organization First Night USA licensed the events. First Night was canceled in 2010 after lack of funding due to the 2008 Recession. (https://www.sandiegouniontribune.com/sdut-escondido-first-night-organizers-cancel-annual-2010jun30-story.html). Merriam Mountains project was a 2,630-home development project proposed by the San Diego County Board of Supervisors in 2008-2010. The project was not completed. Proponents said the project would bring needed infrastructure improvements, spur the local economy and improve fire protection. Opponents said it would ruin the area’s rural character and increase fire risks, noise and traffic (https://www.sandiegouniontribune.com/sdut-escondido-merriam-mountains-project-revived-2010jan13-story.html).

¼ linear feet

Kathe Schwent Robbins Collection, Pioneer Room, Escondido Public Library

This collection is open for research.