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Chris Epting

Time & Location

Oct 09, 2025, 7:00 PM – 11:00 PM

Newport Beach, 210 Marine Ave, Newport Beach, CA 92662, USA

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“Errol Flynn had a boat called The Sirocco and a reputation to match.”

In the golden age of Newport Harbor, Hollywood royalty didn’t just visit they docked. Actor Errol Flynn was known for his hard partying, sharp wit, and serious sailing skills.

Tim Mang remembers him not just as a drinker or a star, but as a surprisingly good guy and a hell of a sailor.

📍 Watch the Newport Legends Series with Tim Mang at @balboaislandmuseum

“Errol Flynn had a boat called The Sirocco and a reputation to match.”

In the golden age of Newport Harbor, Hollywood royalty didn’t just visit they docked. Actor Errol Flynn was known for his hard partying, sharp wit, and serious sailing skills.

Tim Mang remembers him not just as a drinker or a star, but as a surprisingly good guy and a hell of a sailor.

📍 Watch the Newport Legends Series with Tim Mang at @balboaislandmuseum

In the 1950s, under Governor “Goody” Knight, California launched a statewide Ground Observer Corps for air defense.

On Lido Isle, a tower was built. Locals took shifts spotting planes, logging flight patterns, and earning service wings.

Tim Mang remembers his mother’s wings, and an eccentric artist who drew colorful flying saucers in the logbook.

It was part patriotism, part imagination, and pure mid-century Newport.

📍 Watch the full Newport Legends Series at @balboaislandmuseum

In the 1950s, under Governor “Goody” Knight, California launched a statewide Ground Observer Corps for air defense.

On Lido Isle, a tower was built. Locals took shifts spotting planes, logging flight patterns, and earning service wings.

Tim Mang remembers his mother’s wings, and an eccentric artist who drew colorful flying saucers in the logbook.

It was part patriotism, part imagination, and pure mid-century Newport.

📍 Watch the full Newport Legends Series at @balboaislandmuseum

The Wild Goose isn’t just iconic from the outside, its insides are full of stories too.

Captain Bert walks through the boat like it’s a living memory, recalling cracked tubs, speckled yellow woodwork, and every repair he ever made.

Most of the boat remains just as it was when John Wayne walked these halls. From portholes to polished brass, it’s a time capsule wrapped in teak and steel.

📍 Explore the Wild Goose’s interior history at @balboaislandmuseum

The Wild Goose isn’t just iconic from the outside, its insides are full of stories too.

Captain Bert walks through the boat like it’s a living memory, recalling cracked tubs, speckled yellow woodwork, and every repair he ever made.

Most of the boat remains just as it was when John Wayne walked these halls. From portholes to polished brass, it’s a time capsule wrapped in teak and steel.

📍 Explore the Wild Goose’s interior history at @balboaislandmuseum

Harbor Island, the wealthiest island in Newport Beach, and a single lot that once held one of the harbor’s most iconic estates.
Originally home to world-renowned violinist Jascha Heifetz, and later owned by financier Howard Ahmanson, the grand brick house is now gone. In its place stand three separate homes, each among the most valuable in the harbor.
But the legend still lingers.

📍 Watch the full Newport Legends cruise at @balboaislandmuseum

Harbor Island, the wealthiest island in Newport Beach, and a single lot that once held one of the harbor’s most iconic estates.
Originally home to world-renowned violinist Jascha Heifetz, and later owned by financier Howard Ahmanson, the grand brick house is now gone. In its place stand three separate homes, each among the most valuable in the harbor.
But the legend still lingers.

📍 Watch the full Newport Legends cruise at @balboaislandmuseum

Tim Mang recalls the star-studded coastline of Lido Isle, where Bob Hope had a summer home and Claire Trevor once lived.

Rock Hudson famously tried to dock his yacht, the Newporter, and smashed the bow.

Though the beaches were public, few dared to use them. Locals remember “Whitey the Cop,” who told tourists it was private, and they believed him.

📍 Watch more Newport legends in our Newport Harbor Oral History Series at @balboaislandmuseum

Tim Mang recalls the star-studded coastline of Lido Isle, where Bob Hope had a summer home and Claire Trevor once lived.

Rock Hudson famously tried to dock his yacht, the Newporter, and smashed the bow.

Though the beaches were public, few dared to use them. Locals remember “Whitey the Cop,” who told tourists it was private, and they believed him.

📍 Watch more Newport legends in our Newport Harbor Oral History Series at @balboaislandmuseum

You’re Invited. One Night Only.
August 28 | 4–8 PM | Balboa Island Museum

🎨 Vintage & Contemporary Art for Sale
🍷 Light drinks + good vibes
💎 Treasures you’ll brag about finding

Here’s the deal:

You’ll discover art pieces you won’t find anywhere else.

You’ll mix with locals and collectors.

You might walk away with a masterpiece (without emptying your wallet).

👉 RSVP now: (949) 697-3952
👉 Location: 210 B Marine Ave., Balboa Island

Don’t wait. The best art always goes first.

You’re Invited. One Night Only.
August 28 | 4–8 PM | Balboa Island Museum

🎨 Vintage & Contemporary Art for Sale
🍷 Light drinks + good vibes
💎 Treasures you’ll brag about finding

Here’s the deal:

You’ll discover art pieces you won’t find anywhere else.

You’ll mix with locals and collectors.

You might walk away with a masterpiece (without emptying your wallet).

👉 RSVP now: (949) 697-3952
👉 Location: 210 B Marine Ave., Balboa Island

Don’t wait. The best art always goes first.

It’s more than a scenic ride, it’s a local ritual, a window into community life, and a daily check-in with the harbor.

📍 Discover more ferry stories at @balboaislandmuseum
@newportbeachhistory @newportbeach @newport.in.the.rearview.mirror @visitbalboaisland @visitnewportbeach @visittheoc @visitcalifornia

It’s more than a scenic ride, it’s a local ritual, a window into community life, and a daily check-in with the harbor.

📍 Discover more ferry stories at @balboaislandmuseum
@newportbeachhistory @newportbeach @newport.in.the.rearview.mirror @visitbalboaisland @visitnewportbeach @visittheoc @visitcalifornia

“They won the island in a poker game.”
Collins Island was once nicknamed Cagney Island, after actor James Cagney supposedly won it in a poker bet with his brother Bill.
The harbor was a hotspot for old Hollywood—Bogart, Bacall, Cagney, and their circle partied and gambled on and around the island.
Nearby lived Don Brinn, a champion skier who almost made the Olympics, and son of Milton Brinn, heavyweight Hollywood producer and husband of actress Claire Trevor.

“They won the island in a poker game.”
Collins Island was once nicknamed Cagney Island, after actor James Cagney supposedly won it in a poker bet with his brother Bill.
The harbor was a hotspot for old Hollywood—Bogart, Bacall, Cagney, and their circle partied and gambled on and around the island.
Nearby lived Don Brinn, a champion skier who almost made the Olympics, and son of Milton Brinn, heavyweight Hollywood producer and husband of actress Claire Trevor.

“We used to watch the submarine races and the alligator fights in the bay.”

In the 1950s, Newport Harbor was full of charm and teenage mischief. Tim Mang remembers parking near the water with high school dates, watching the waves from the best seat in town.

Back then, the Wild Goose looked different too less enclosed, more iconic. These days, it’s a tourist boat, but the memories still anchor deep.

📍 Dive into Newport’s Golden Age in our Newport Legends Series at @balboaislandmuseum

“We used to watch the submarine races and the alligator fights in the bay.”

In the 1950s, Newport Harbor was full of charm and teenage mischief. Tim Mang remembers parking near the water with high school dates, watching the waves from the best seat in town.

Back then, the Wild Goose looked different too less enclosed, more iconic. These days, it’s a tourist boat, but the memories still anchor deep.

📍 Dive into Newport’s Golden Age in our Newport Legends Series at @balboaislandmuseum

“Rodman took over Josh Slocum’s, and the parties got out of control.”

Everyone remembers Josh Slocum’s, the iconic Newport hangout once owned by the Minnie family. For a wild chapter in the 1990s, they leased it to Dennis Rodman, who turned it into a nonstop party zone.

Eventually, Lido Isle local Gary Prim stepped in, bought the land, and shut it down. The era ended, but the stories still echo across the harbor.

“Rodman took over Josh Slocum’s, and the parties got out of control.”

Everyone remembers Josh Slocum’s, the iconic Newport hangout once owned by the Minnie family. For a wild chapter in the 1990s, they leased it to Dennis Rodman, who turned it into a nonstop party zone.

Eventually, Lido Isle local Gary Prim stepped in, bought the land, and shut it down. The era ended, but the stories still echo across the harbor.

John Wayne believed in running a tight ship, with six full-time crew members and a galley that served $30-a-pound steaks back in the day
.
Chef Billy Sweat cooked for the Duke and the crew for 12 years. The meat was top-tier, the portions generous, and no one left the table hungry.

One former crew member laughed, “I’d gain ten pounds every trip.” Wayne made sure his ship ran right, and his people ate well.

📍 More Wild Goose stories now at @balboaislandmuseum

John Wayne believed in running a tight ship, with six full-time crew members and a galley that served $30-a-pound steaks back in the day
.
Chef Billy Sweat cooked for the Duke and the crew for 12 years. The meat was top-tier, the portions generous, and no one left the table hungry.

One former crew member laughed, “I’d gain ten pounds every trip.” Wayne made sure his ship ran right, and his people ate well.

📍 More Wild Goose stories now at @balboaislandmuseum

Stop Scrolling! These Are a Vibe & They’re Here

Iconic books. Legendary rides. California dreams.
Perfect for your coffee table, your wall, or your next adventure fuel-up.

Shop online now (link in bio):
https://balboa-island-museum.myshopify.com/

Why grab one now?
• Limited stock – once they’re gone, they’re gone
• Instant upgrade to your living room, office, or gift game
• Conversation starters – from surf history to Kobe’s playbook to Disneyland nostalgia

Top Picks in Store & Online
• Surf Rides & Beach Rides – Rad rides + California coast stories
• Kobe Bryant: The Mamba Mentality – Mindset from the legend himself
• Walt Disney’s Disneyland – Magic in book form
• A Man & His Watch / A Man & His Car – Pure design + history
• Big Wave Surfer – The greatest rides of our lives
• Sailing America – For the wind-in-your-hair dreamers

Available in-store at Balboa Island Museum or online: https://balboa-island-museum.myshopify.com/
Phone orders: (949) 675-3952

Stop Scrolling! These Are a Vibe & They’re Here

Iconic books. Legendary rides. California dreams.
Perfect for your coffee table, your wall, or your next adventure fuel-up.

Shop online now (link in bio):
https://balboa-island-museum.myshopify.com/

Why grab one now?
• Limited stock – once they’re gone, they’re gone
• Instant upgrade to your living room, office, or gift game
• Conversation starters – from surf history to Kobe’s playbook to Disneyland nostalgia

Top Picks in Store & Online
• Surf Rides & Beach Rides – Rad rides + California coast stories
• Kobe Bryant: The Mamba Mentality – Mindset from the legend himself
• Walt Disney’s Disneyland – Magic in book form
• A Man & His Watch / A Man & His Car – Pure design + history
• Big Wave Surfer – The greatest rides of our lives
• Sailing America – For the wind-in-your-hair dreamers

Available in-store at Balboa Island Museum or online: https://balboa-island-museum.myshopify.com/
Phone orders: (949) 675-3952

In the 1940s, 50s, and 60s, Newport Harbor became a secret playground for the stars. The docks weren’t crowded yet, and the movie legends Humphrey Bogart, Errol Flynn, Tyrone Power, Dick Powell, Ray Milland were all skilled sailors.

📍 Hear more untold stories in the Newport Legends Series at @balboaislandmuseum

In the 1940s, 50s, and 60s, Newport Harbor became a secret playground for the stars. The docks weren’t crowded yet, and the movie legends Humphrey Bogart, Errol Flynn, Tyrone Power, Dick Powell, Ray Milland were all skilled sailors.

📍 Hear more untold stories in the Newport Legends Series at @balboaislandmuseum

In this Golden Age of Newport story, Tim Mang recalls Ernie Saftick, TV pioneer, early Channel 11 sports cameraman, and the first to air high school football games from Newport Harbor to Anaheim.

Ernie’s Saint Bernard, Cookie, roamed the yard with a sign: “Please don’t feed me. I’m getting too fat.”

Oh, and when Ernie was out of town? John Wayne house-sat.

📍 Watch more Newport legends with Tim Mang at @balboaislandmuseum

In this Golden Age of Newport story, Tim Mang recalls Ernie Saftick, TV pioneer, early Channel 11 sports cameraman, and the first to air high school football games from Newport Harbor to Anaheim.

Ernie’s Saint Bernard, Cookie, roamed the yard with a sign: “Please don’t feed me. I’m getting too fat.”

Oh, and when Ernie was out of town? John Wayne house-sat.

📍 Watch more Newport legends with Tim Mang at @balboaislandmuseum

After John Wayne passed, the Wild Goose didn’t retire. She adapted. Today, the iconic yacht hosts weddings, cruises, and corporate events, but the legend still lingers on deck.

Thanks to Captain Bert’s years aboard and the stories she carries, she remains arguably the most famous yacht in America.
Guests may come for the view, but they stay for the history.

📍 Explore the legacy of the Wild Goose at @balboaislandmuseum
🔗 Link in bio for stories, exhibits, and behind-the-scenes footage

After John Wayne passed, the Wild Goose didn’t retire. She adapted. Today, the iconic yacht hosts weddings, cruises, and corporate events, but the legend still lingers on deck.

Thanks to Captain Bert’s years aboard and the stories she carries, she remains arguably the most famous yacht in America.
Guests may come for the view, but they stay for the history.

📍 Explore the legacy of the Wild Goose at @balboaislandmuseum
🔗 Link in bio for stories, exhibits, and behind-the-scenes footage

The Balboa Island Ferry isn’t just transportation. It’s part of the neighborhood. For over a century, locals have counted on it, rain, shine, fog, or film crew.

Even a short closure for dock repairs stirred frustration. Because to Newport Beach, the ferry isn’t a novelty. It’s a tradition.

@newportbeachhistory @newportbeach @newport.in.the.rearview.mirror @visitbalboaisland @visitnewportbeach @visittheoc @visitcalifornia

The Balboa Island Ferry isn’t just transportation. It’s part of the neighborhood. For over a century, locals have counted on it, rain, shine, fog, or film crew.

Even a short closure for dock repairs stirred frustration. Because to Newport Beach, the ferry isn’t a novelty. It’s a tradition.

@newportbeachhistory @newportbeach @newport.in.the.rearview.mirror @visitbalboaisland @visitnewportbeach @visittheoc @visitcalifornia

“It started as a rowboat, and just turned 100 years old.”

The Balboa Island Ferry is the oldest continuous business on Newport Harbor, traveling 900 feet from the island to the peninsula.

Originally launched by Joe Beek as a rowboat, the ferry evolved into a 3-car vessel, still operated by the same family a century later. Joe’s son Seymour carries on the tradition, keeping this iconic link between past and present alive on the water.

📍 Celebrate 100 years of crossings at @balboaislandmuseum

“It started as a rowboat, and just turned 100 years old.”

The Balboa Island Ferry is the oldest continuous business on Newport Harbor, traveling 900 feet from the island to the peninsula.

Originally launched by Joe Beek as a rowboat, the ferry evolved into a 3-car vessel, still operated by the same family a century later. Joe’s son Seymour carries on the tradition, keeping this iconic link between past and present alive on the water.

📍 Celebrate 100 years of crossings at @balboaislandmuseum

“He missed Annapolis by one spot. He might’ve been an admiral instead of a cowboy.”

John Wayne knew more about the sea than most people realized. He ran the Wild Goose like a proper ship, clean, tight, immaculate.

Had he gotten into Annapolis, he may never have become an American icon.

Down on the main deck sits the most famous table in Newport Beach, where The Duke hosted dinners with family and friends. If it could talk, it would whisper legends.

“He missed Annapolis by one spot. He might’ve been an admiral instead of a cowboy.”

John Wayne knew more about the sea than most people realized. He ran the Wild Goose like a proper ship, clean, tight, immaculate.

Had he gotten into Annapolis, he may never have become an American icon.

Down on the main deck sits the most famous table in Newport Beach, where The Duke hosted dinners with family and friends. If it could talk, it would whisper legends.

As the harbor tour rounds the bend, Tim Mang points out the modest one-story home once owned by John Wayne, right here in Newport Beach.

Wayne bought the house from Elgin Gates, a world-renowned big-game hunter who served as technical director on Hatari, the film where Wayne famously lassos a rhinoceros.

The home may be humble, but the legends who lived there were anything but.

📍 Explore more Newport icons in our Newport Legends Series at @balboaislandmuseum

As the harbor tour rounds the bend, Tim Mang points out the modest one-story home once owned by John Wayne, right here in Newport Beach.

Wayne bought the house from Elgin Gates, a world-renowned big-game hunter who served as technical director on Hatari, the film where Wayne famously lassos a rhinoceros.

The home may be humble, but the legends who lived there were anything but.

📍 Explore more Newport icons in our Newport Legends Series at @balboaislandmuseum

It started as a convenience. It became part of the fabric.

The Balboa Island Ferry has been carrying cars, locals, and legends across Newport Harbor since the early 1900s. What began as a one-car ferry evolved over decades into a community cornerstonea

📍 Learn more about Newport’s most beloved boat at @balboaislandmuseum
🔗 Link in bio for ferry history, photos, and oral stories

It started as a convenience. It became part of the fabric.

The Balboa Island Ferry has been carrying cars, locals, and legends across Newport Harbor since the early 1900s. What began as a one-car ferry evolved over decades into a community cornerstonea

📍 Learn more about Newport’s most beloved boat at @balboaislandmuseum
🔗 Link in bio for ferry history, photos, and oral stories

“Humphrey Bogart got kicked off the dock, for partying too loud.”

In this cruise through the Golden Age of Newport Harbor, Tim Mang shares how actor Humphrey Bogart, a skilled sailor and member of the Newport Harbor Yacht Club, found himself unwelcome at the dock of Lido Isle’s first commodore, Thomas Rudder.

📍 Watch more Newport icons in our Newport Legends Series at @balboaislandmuseum

“Humphrey Bogart got kicked off the dock, for partying too loud.”

In this cruise through the Golden Age of Newport Harbor, Tim Mang shares how actor Humphrey Bogart, a skilled sailor and member of the Newport Harbor Yacht Club, found himself unwelcome at the dock of Lido Isle’s first commodore, Thomas Rudder.

📍 Watch more Newport icons in our Newport Legends Series at @balboaislandmuseum

From the historic Balboa Island Ferry to John Wayne’s Wild Goose, Huell Howser wrapped up a day on the water in Newport Beach with stories, legends, and laughter.

📍 Rewatch the full episode at @balboaislandmuseum
🔗 Link in bio for exhibits, photos, and California’s Gold memories

From the historic Balboa Island Ferry to John Wayne’s Wild Goose, Huell Howser wrapped up a day on the water in Newport Beach with stories, legends, and laughter.

📍 Rewatch the full episode at @balboaislandmuseum
🔗 Link in bio for exhibits, photos, and California’s Gold memories

"That was Joan Irvine’s house," he said, pointing toward the cliffside. Carol smiled. She used to have lunch parties there, barefoot by the pool, Rose Bowl crown tucked away like it meant nothing.

Before the yachts and influencers, Newport Beach held quieter royalty. Carol Washburn was the 1962 Rose Queen, daughter of Don Washburn, who bought Joan Irvine’s home after starting a little company called 7UP. Their cliffside estate overlooked the Rose Bowl, and Newport was just the weekend house.

"That was Joan Irvine’s house," he said, pointing toward the cliffside. Carol smiled. She used to have lunch parties there, barefoot by the pool, Rose Bowl crown tucked away like it meant nothing.

Before the yachts and influencers, Newport Beach held quieter royalty. Carol Washburn was the 1962 Rose Queen, daughter of Don Washburn, who bought Joan Irvine’s home after starting a little company called 7UP. Their cliffside estate overlooked the Rose Bowl, and Newport was just the weekend house.

“Growing up here was like living inside a secret theme park. But we didn’t know it.”
Tim Mang remembers childhood in 1950s Newport Beach like it was just another day:
— Body surfing before school
— Sailing to friends’ houses for lunch
— Riding bikes up Pacific Coast Highway so steep you had to zigzag
— Mini golf behind the barbershop after a haircut

They didn’t realize it then—but it was California’s gold, hiding in plain sight.
📍From the archives of @balboaislandmuseum

“Growing up here was like living inside a secret theme park. But we didn’t know it.”
Tim Mang remembers childhood in 1950s Newport Beach like it was just another day:
— Body surfing before school
— Sailing to friends’ houses for lunch
— Riding bikes up Pacific Coast Highway so steep you had to zigzag
— Mini golf behind the barbershop after a haircut

They didn’t realize it then—but it was California’s gold, hiding in plain sight.
📍From the archives of @balboaislandmuseum

Captain Bert stands once again at the wheel of the Wild Goose, just as he did for John Wayne decades ago. The polished brass, the original compass, the memory of The Duke standing tall at the helm, it’s all still here.

What started as a World War II minesweeper became an American legend’s floating retreat. And today, it still carries the weight of those stories.

📍 See more Wild Goose memories at @balboaislandmuseum
🔗 Link in bio for history, exhibits, and full video clips

Captain Bert stands once again at the wheel of the Wild Goose, just as he did for John Wayne decades ago. The polished brass, the original compass, the memory of The Duke standing tall at the helm, it’s all still here.

What started as a World War II minesweeper became an American legend’s floating retreat. And today, it still carries the weight of those stories.

📍 See more Wild Goose memories at @balboaislandmuseum
🔗 Link in bio for history, exhibits, and full video clips

Over 100 degrees. No AC. Schools closed. Businesses shuttered.

In mid-September of 1939, Balboa Island and much of Southern California were hit with a brutal heatwave. On September 18, the Balboa Fire Station recorded temps well over 100 degrees.

Schools shut back down just days after opening. Even businesses called it quits.
It was the kind of heat people still talk about, and it was only the beginning of a wild September.

📍 Watch the full 1939 documentary at @balboaislandmuseum

Over 100 degrees. No AC. Schools closed. Businesses shuttered.

In mid-September of 1939, Balboa Island and much of Southern California were hit with a brutal heatwave. On September 18, the Balboa Fire Station recorded temps well over 100 degrees.

Schools shut back down just days after opening. Even businesses called it quits.
It was the kind of heat people still talk about, and it was only the beginning of a wild September.

📍 Watch the full 1939 documentary at @balboaislandmuseum

“They lived on Lido, partied on the harbor, and collected Oscars.”

In 1948, Jane Wyman won an Academy Award for Johnny Belinda. That same year, her best friend Claire Trevor won for Key Largo.

They both lived on Lido Isle, partied together, and spent their days with friends like Edgar and Fran Bergen, Dick Powell, and June Allyson.

Hollywood’s Golden Age didn’t just live in Beverly Hills—it anchored right here in Newport.

📍 Discover Newport’s star-studded past at @balboaislandmuseum

“They lived on Lido, partied on the harbor, and collected Oscars.”

In 1948, Jane Wyman won an Academy Award for Johnny Belinda. That same year, her best friend Claire Trevor won for Key Largo.

They both lived on Lido Isle, partied together, and spent their days with friends like Edgar and Fran Bergen, Dick Powell, and June Allyson.

Hollywood’s Golden Age didn’t just live in Beverly Hills—it anchored right here in Newport.

📍 Discover Newport’s star-studded past at @balboaislandmuseum

She always knew she'd be an entrepreneur. Selling anything she could as a kid, organizing everyone around her, and somehow turning chaos into charm.

Balboa Island wasn’t just where her parents were, it fit her rhythm. Her father told her to buy the house near the bench on South Bayfront. She listened. And just like that, her story became part of the island’s.

📍 Follow @balboaislandmuseum for stories shaped by family and salt air
🔗 Link in bio for exhibits and past event recordings

She always knew she'd be an entrepreneur. Selling anything she could as a kid, organizing everyone around her, and somehow turning chaos into charm.

Balboa Island wasn’t just where her parents were, it fit her rhythm. Her father told her to buy the house near the bench on South Bayfront. She listened. And just like that, her story became part of the island’s.

📍 Follow @balboaislandmuseum for stories shaped by family and salt air
🔗 Link in bio for exhibits and past event recordings

The Wild Goose wasn’t just John Wayne’s yacht, it was his escape. A floating sanctuary from Hollywood where he spent quiet days with his wife and kids, far from the spotlight.

Captain Bert remembers long watches in the wheelhouse, feet propped up, Wayne often by his side.
It may have been a converted minesweeper, but for The Duke, it was always a family boat.

📍 Explore more Wild Goose memories at @balboaislandmuseum
🔗 Link in bio for the full exhibit and oral history series

The Wild Goose wasn’t just John Wayne’s yacht, it was his escape. A floating sanctuary from Hollywood where he spent quiet days with his wife and kids, far from the spotlight.

Captain Bert remembers long watches in the wheelhouse, feet propped up, Wayne often by his side.
It may have been a converted minesweeper, but for The Duke, it was always a family boat.

📍 Explore more Wild Goose memories at @balboaislandmuseum
🔗 Link in bio for the full exhibit and oral history series

“We used to sail to school. No, really.”

Before it was the Bluewater Grill, it was the real Newport Cannery, and locals remember the smell. Kids riding bikes from Lido to Newport Grammar would pedal faster just to get past it.

Once in a while, they’d sail across the harbor, dock at the American Legion, and walk the rest of the way. It didn’t happen often, but when it did, it felt like magic.

📍 Watch more Newport memories at @balboaislandmuseum

“We used to sail to school. No, really.”

Before it was the Bluewater Grill, it was the real Newport Cannery, and locals remember the smell. Kids riding bikes from Lido to Newport Grammar would pedal faster just to get past it.

Once in a while, they’d sail across the harbor, dock at the American Legion, and walk the rest of the way. It didn’t happen often, but when it did, it felt like magic.

📍 Watch more Newport memories at @balboaislandmuseum

Shirley had built a successful business. Selling it brought reward, but building the museum brought meaning.
With every puzzle piece placed, every photo displayed, every child laughing in the sandbox, she was giving back to the community that gave her so much.

This time, the benefit wasn’t just hers. It belonged to everyone who walked through the door.

📍 Follow @balboaislandmuseum for more stories of purpose and legacy

Shirley had built a successful business. Selling it brought reward, but building the museum brought meaning.
With every puzzle piece placed, every photo displayed, every child laughing in the sandbox, she was giving back to the community that gave her so much.

This time, the benefit wasn’t just hers. It belonged to everyone who walked through the door.

📍 Follow @balboaislandmuseum for more stories of purpose and legacy

During the 1939 hurricane that hit Newport Harbor, a powerboat trying to enter the jetty was caught by a following sea. The boat surged forward, nearly thrown onto the rocks as the helmsman fought to reverse course.
He stopped just in time, seconds before the next wave hit.

Meanwhile, 65-knot winds battered the jetty playground, making it nearly impossible to hold the camera steady.

📍 Watch the full 1939 Hurricane documentary now at @balboaislandmuseum

During the 1939 hurricane that hit Newport Harbor, a powerboat trying to enter the jetty was caught by a following sea. The boat surged forward, nearly thrown onto the rocks as the helmsman fought to reverse course.
He stopped just in time, seconds before the next wave hit.

Meanwhile, 65-knot winds battered the jetty playground, making it nearly impossible to hold the camera steady.

📍 Watch the full 1939 Hurricane documentary now at @balboaislandmuseum

Before condos lined the harbor, this stretch of Newport Beach was home to Christian’s Hut, a legendary restaurant and bar brought over by boat, piece by piece.

Its original star? Clark Gable. The cast of Mutiny on the Bounty made it iconic. But it was the Hollywood regulars who gave it mythic status, signing their names in wood, not ink.

It wasn’t just a bar. It was Old Hollywood on the water.

📍 Watch the full story at @balboaislandmuseum

Before condos lined the harbor, this stretch of Newport Beach was home to Christian’s Hut, a legendary restaurant and bar brought over by boat, piece by piece.

Its original star? Clark Gable. The cast of Mutiny on the Bounty made it iconic. But it was the Hollywood regulars who gave it mythic status, signing their names in wood, not ink.

It wasn’t just a bar. It was Old Hollywood on the water.

📍 Watch the full story at @balboaislandmuseum

Bill bought FDR’s sunken yacht, the USS Potomac, at auction for $25,000 and took a volunteer crew to Barbados to bring her home.
The engine barely ran. The mission was uncertain. But they set out anyway, men from all walks of life ready for the journey of a lifetime.

📍 See the full story in Arts of the Ancient Mariner at @balboaislandmuseum

Bill bought FDR’s sunken yacht, the USS Potomac, at auction for $25,000 and took a volunteer crew to Barbados to bring her home.
The engine barely ran. The mission was uncertain. But they set out anyway, men from all walks of life ready for the journey of a lifetime.

📍 See the full story in Arts of the Ancient Mariner at @balboaislandmuseum

When Shirley first stepped into the “museum,” it was barely more than a dusty upstairs room above South Bayfront. But her sense of service ran deep—shaped by her parents and by growing up alongside her sister with disabilities.
She didn’t just see what it was. She saw what it could become.

📍 Follow @balboaislandmuseum

When Shirley first stepped into the “museum,” it was barely more than a dusty upstairs room above South Bayfront. But her sense of service ran deep—shaped by her parents and by growing up alongside her sister with disabilities.
She didn’t just see what it was. She saw what it could become.

📍 Follow @balboaislandmuseum

As the 1939 Chubasco hurricane struck Newport Harbor, chaos turned to desperation.

📍 Watch the full 1939 Hurricane documentary at @balboaislandmuseum

As the 1939 Chubasco hurricane struck Newport Harbor, chaos turned to desperation.

📍 Watch the full 1939 Hurricane documentary at @balboaislandmuseum

“We were just little old Orange Coast College, but our parties were legendary.”

In this cruise through Newport Harbor’s golden age, Tim Mang recalls his rebellious college years, president of an illegal fraternity, hosting wild shipwreck parties at “The Shed” in Costa Mesa, a venue owned by his mom.

Every Saturday was a kegger. Girls got in free. SC fraternities showed up. Newport’s calm harbor hid a rowdy undercurrent.

Step back in time to the Golden Age of Newport Harbor DVD! 🎥

✨ Grab your copy in-store or through the link in our bio and relive the magic.

📍 Watch the full oral history at @balboaislandmuseum

“We were just little old Orange Coast College, but our parties were legendary.”

In this cruise through Newport Harbor’s golden age, Tim Mang recalls his rebellious college years, president of an illegal fraternity, hosting wild shipwreck parties at “The Shed” in Costa Mesa, a venue owned by his mom.

Every Saturday was a kegger. Girls got in free. SC fraternities showed up. Newport’s calm harbor hid a rowdy undercurrent.

Step back in time to the Golden Age of Newport Harbor DVD! 🎥

✨ Grab your copy in-store or through the link in our bio and relive the magic.

📍 Watch the full oral history at @balboaislandmuseum

“Some people make a pilgrimage just to see the boat.”

In this special episode of California’s Gold, Huell Howser ends the day reflecting on two legendary vessels in Newport Beach, each with deep roots in American memory.

First, the Balboa Island Ferry, faithfully crossing the harbor since 1919. Then, John Wayne’s Wild Goose, a World War II minesweeper turned Hollywood yacht that still draws visitors to the dock just to catch a glimpse.

“Some people make a pilgrimage just to see the boat.”

In this special episode of California’s Gold, Huell Howser ends the day reflecting on two legendary vessels in Newport Beach, each with deep roots in American memory.

First, the Balboa Island Ferry, faithfully crossing the harbor since 1919. Then, John Wayne’s Wild Goose, a World War II minesweeper turned Hollywood yacht that still draws visitors to the dock just to catch a glimpse.

What started as a casual agreement became something far bigger. They signed the lease in August and opened the museum that December. It was an instant success—born of creative energy, community spirit, and one woman’s need to stay out of trouble.

Behind it all stood a great board and one man in particular whose support still echoes, though he’s no longer with us

What started as a casual agreement became something far bigger. They signed the lease in August and opened the museum that December. It was an instant success—born of creative energy, community spirit, and one woman’s need to stay out of trouble.

Behind it all stood a great board and one man in particular whose support still echoes, though he’s no longer with us

After raising the USS Potomac and beginning repairs, Bill’s crew discovered a brass telescope tucked away in a secret compartment.

Engraved with McAllister and Brother, it traced back to a Philadelphia hardware store in the 1850s. One search later, Bill found the exact model, leather casing, boxed, and listed in an original catalog from 1850.

It wasn’t just a rescue. It was a resurrection.

📚 This is Part 3.

📍 See the telescope and more at @balboaislandmuseum

After raising the USS Potomac and beginning repairs, Bill’s crew discovered a brass telescope tucked away in a secret compartment.

Engraved with McAllister and Brother, it traced back to a Philadelphia hardware store in the 1850s. One search later, Bill found the exact model, leather casing, boxed, and listed in an original catalog from 1850.

It wasn’t just a rescue. It was a resurrection.

📚 This is Part 3.

📍 See the telescope and more at @balboaislandmuseum

The Balboa Island Ferry has carried people, cars, and love stories across Newport Harbor since the early 1900s. Less than 1,000 feet each way, but for generations, it’s been a rite of passage.

Locals ride it weekly. Tourists discover it like a secret. One man brought his wife on their first date. Now he’s back with his grandson.

📍 Explore the full ferry story at @balboaislandmuseum
🔗 Link in bio for exhibits, footage, and oral history

The Balboa Island Ferry has carried people, cars, and love stories across Newport Harbor since the early 1900s. Less than 1,000 feet each way, but for generations, it’s been a rite of passage.

Locals ride it weekly. Tourists discover it like a secret. One man brought his wife on their first date. Now he’s back with his grandson.

📍 Explore the full ferry story at @balboaislandmuseum
🔗 Link in bio for exhibits, footage, and oral history

With a skeleton crew made of college hitchhikers and faith, Bill prepared to prove them wrong. The local economy had grown attached to the sunken ship, jobs, repairs, hope. But Bill’s crew was leaving. It was July 3rd.
He told them, “Tomorrow’s the Fourth of July. We’re going to sea.”
One engine. A harbor full of resistance. And history in the making.

📍 Explore more at @balboaislandmuseum
🔗 Link in bio for full story

With a skeleton crew made of college hitchhikers and faith, Bill prepared to prove them wrong. The local economy had grown attached to the sunken ship, jobs, repairs, hope. But Bill’s crew was leaving. It was July 3rd.
He told them, “Tomorrow’s the Fourth of July. We’re going to sea.”
One engine. A harbor full of resistance. And history in the making.

📍 Explore more at @balboaislandmuseum
🔗 Link in bio for full story

In this episode of California’s Gold, Huell Howser visits Newport Beach to ride two legendary vessels.

The Balboa Island Ferry, family-owned since 1919, still makes its short crossing, beloved by locals and visitors alike. Then it’s aboard John Wayne’s Wild Goose, a World War II minesweeper turned Hollywood yacht.

The last captain still remembers where “The Duke” sat, drink in hand, watching the harbor roll by.

📍 Watch clips and behind-the-scenes stories at @balboaislandmuseum

In this episode of California’s Gold, Huell Howser visits Newport Beach to ride two legendary vessels.

The Balboa Island Ferry, family-owned since 1919, still makes its short crossing, beloved by locals and visitors alike. Then it’s aboard John Wayne’s Wild Goose, a World War II minesweeper turned Hollywood yacht.

The last captain still remembers where “The Duke” sat, drink in hand, watching the harbor roll by.

📍 Watch clips and behind-the-scenes stories at @balboaislandmuseum

As chaos unfolds in the harbor, a vessel believed to be the Blue Water, skippered by Pat Dunn, rushes in to help. A sailboat nearly crashes into the rescue attempt, tossed sideways by the following sea.
No sirens. No radios. Just instinct, adrenaline, and courage.

📍 Watch the original 1939 hurricane footage now at @balboaislandmuseum

As chaos unfolds in the harbor, a vessel believed to be the Blue Water, skippered by Pat Dunn, rushes in to help. A sailboat nearly crashes into the rescue attempt, tossed sideways by the following sea.
No sirens. No radios. Just instinct, adrenaline, and courage.

📍 Watch the original 1939 hurricane footage now at @balboaislandmuseum

In the eye of the 1939 Newport hurricane, the 140-foot Paragon charged toward the harbor entrance with 16 guests and 8 crew aboard.
The captain refused. The owner took the wheel. She struck the jetty, rolled back, and barely made it through. They say she passed so close, the crew looked down on the lighthouse.

📍 Watch rare footage in our 1939 Hurricane film at @balboaislandmuseum
🔗 Link in bio to view the full documentary and visit the exhibit

In the eye of the 1939 Newport hurricane, the 140-foot Paragon charged toward the harbor entrance with 16 guests and 8 crew aboard.
The captain refused. The owner took the wheel. She struck the jetty, rolled back, and barely made it through. They say she passed so close, the crew looked down on the lighthouse.

📍 Watch rare footage in our 1939 Hurricane film at @balboaislandmuseum
🔗 Link in bio to view the full documentary and visit the exhibit

On a calm Sunday in 1939, a rare Mexican Chubasco swept into Newport Harbor with winds over 65 knots.
Sailors in the Catalina Channel had no warning. Large ground swells collided with outgoing tides, turning the harbor entrance into a death trap. Boats capsized. Buildings crumbled. The storm reached as far as Los Angeles, lifting yachts and smashing lighthouses.

📍 Watch Part 1 of the 1939 Hurricane film at @balboaislandmuseum
🔗 Link in bio to see the full documentary and visit the exhibit

On a calm Sunday in 1939, a rare Mexican Chubasco swept into Newport Harbor with winds over 65 knots.
Sailors in the Catalina Channel had no warning. Large ground swells collided with outgoing tides, turning the harbor entrance into a death trap. Boats capsized. Buildings crumbled. The storm reached as far as Los Angeles, lifting yachts and smashing lighthouses.

📍 Watch Part 1 of the 1939 Hurricane film at @balboaislandmuseum
🔗 Link in bio to see the full documentary and visit the exhibit

Bill helped rescue the USS Potomac, Franklin Delano Roosevelt’s presidential yacht, long believed lost to history. It wasn’t until decades later that the truth was finally acknowledged.
Four of the Americans who raised her are still alive. And Bill’s story is now part of our own harbor’s lore.

📍 Explore more at @balboaislandmuseum
🔗 Link in bio for visiting hours, events, and full exhibit details

Bill helped rescue the USS Potomac, Franklin Delano Roosevelt’s presidential yacht, long believed lost to history. It wasn’t until decades later that the truth was finally acknowledged.
Four of the Americans who raised her are still alive. And Bill’s story is now part of our own harbor’s lore.

📍 Explore more at @balboaislandmuseum
🔗 Link in bio for visiting hours, events, and full exhibit details

In 1939, a rare hurricane slammed into Newport Harbor. Boats capsized. Chaos ruled the water. But two young surfers paddled straight into the storm and rescued eight people from the wreckage of the Jolly Tom, a 34-foot Wheeler cabin cruiser.
One life was lost. But without them, it would have been many more.

📍 Watch the original 1939 footage now at @balboaislandmuseum

In 1939, a rare hurricane slammed into Newport Harbor. Boats capsized. Chaos ruled the water. But two young surfers paddled straight into the storm and rescued eight people from the wreckage of the Jolly Tom, a 34-foot Wheeler cabin cruiser.
One life was lost. But without them, it would have been many more.

📍 Watch the original 1939 footage now at @balboaislandmuseum

The Wild Goose, a 136-foot yacht once owned by John Wayne, still glides through Newport Bay. It’s now operated by Hornblower Cruises, but her legacy runs deep.

Captain Bert Menchal first boarded the vessel as first mate. Years later, he became Wayne’s captain for the final three years of the star’s life.

He remembers meeting the Duke in La Paz, Mexico, and never forgetting the moment he was asked to greet an icon.

📍 Visit @balboaislandmuseum for rare stories from the Wild Goose

The Wild Goose, a 136-foot yacht once owned by John Wayne, still glides through Newport Bay. It’s now operated by Hornblower Cruises, but her legacy runs deep.

Captain Bert Menchal first boarded the vessel as first mate. Years later, he became Wayne’s captain for the final three years of the star’s life.

He remembers meeting the Duke in La Paz, Mexico, and never forgetting the moment he was asked to greet an icon.

📍 Visit @balboaislandmuseum for rare stories from the Wild Goose

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