The Old Bank After Rain

Born in Suisun, CA on May 10, 1925.  After serving in WWII, Morrissey studied at the California College of Arts and Crafts.  He later taught for 12 years at Palomar College in San Marcos, CA.  He had a studio-home in nearby Temecula for several years.  Today he lives in Hemet, CA. 

Further information about Roy Morrissey may be found on the Temecula Valley Historical Society website. 

"Perry Mason" Creator Erle Stanley Gardner is one of Temecula's most famous residents. In 1937, the attorney-turned-writer was driving south on Highway 395 when his dog, "Rip," "had a barking fit like never before.

He was telling me that this was the place to stop," Gardner wrote in the area's wonderful historical publication, "The High Country."Rip loved the countryside and so did Erle. Soon, he purchased a 3,000-acre ranch that became known as Rancho del Paisano, across from current day Great Oak High School.

The famous best-selling author, whose works also became movies, TV series, radio shows and novels, loved Temecula & his ranch for over 30 years. Gardner died on his beloved ranch in 1970.

Erle Stanley Gardner mystery weekend are regularly held in Old Town Temecula.

Another renown character who drove to Temecula was Heavyweight Boxer Jack Dempsey. He reportedly trained in the Old Welty Building at Front & Main Streets, in what's now known as Historic Old Town Temecula. The 1896 structure housed "The Blind Pig Saloon," which featured a gym & ring where Dempsey reportedly sparred with Boxer Jack Sharkey.