The Palos Verdes Peninsula has long been a subject of interest due to its geological instability but one particular landslide has captivated visitors for decades. The Sunken City in San Pedro, with its dystopian landscape of fractured streets and remnants of old homes, tells a tale of ambition and nature’s power.
Nearly a century ago, the residents of San Pedro’s Point Fermin neighborhood dreamed of coastal living. However, the cliffs that offered stunning views also became their downfall. A slow-moving landslide gradually tore the neighborhood apart, earning the area its haunting nickname. Today, the Sunken City stands as a testament to this geological event, with plans underway to reopen a section to the public.
The Genesis of the Sunken City
The allure of the Pacific Ocean views drew developers and residents to Point Fermin in the 1920s. Developer George Peck saw the potential and built an upscale neighborhood with charming bungalows. However, the dream of coastal living began to unravel in the months leading up to January 1929.
Initial signs of trouble were subtle: broken pipes and a small crack near the cliffside. These were dismissed as a simple landslide with minimal danger. However, the situation escalated when F.L. Ransome, a geology professor at Caltech, warned of significant land movement. He reported that the land had slid up to 8 inches, damaging utility pipes and building foundations. Ransome cautioned that water in the area could accelerate the movement, leading to disastrous changes on the surface.
By September, the situation had become critical. Geologists recommended condemning the area, and L.A. officials urged residents to leave or risk their own peril. The landslide, covering 5 acres, was primarily blamed on ground weakness and wave erosion. The city filled cracks as they appeared and explored protective measures, but the damage was irreversible.
The Slow Descent into the Pacific
For several years, Point Fermin remained in a state of limbo. The ground continued to move, albeit slowly. However, heavy rains and other incidents caused the landslide to accelerate. By February 17, 1941, the grounds had shifted more than 30 feet seaward and 30 feet down, destroying the once-thriving community.
The city demolished damaged homes and relocated residents. Officials eventually bought up nearly all the impacted land to turn it into a park. However, the heightened risk kept much of the area blocked off to the public for years. The issue became so prevalent that insurance companies refused to insure L.A. homes for landslide damage.
The final blow came in 1969, when a 5.0 earthquake caused a new mammoth, crescent-shaped fissure to appear. This damaged three homes along Paseo del Mar and dropped another 200 feet down into the rocks. Despite the risks, some residents refused to leave, holding onto the hope that their homes would remain intact.
The Sunken City Today
The Palos Verdes Peninsula remains prone to landslides, but the ground is more stable in Point Fermin, now known as the Sunken City. While no one died during the initial landslide, visitors have perished in the years since, drawn to the cliff edge by its eerie beauty. The area has become a local legend, attracting adventurers and curious onlookers.
Today, the Sunken City is closed off to the public. Those who venture in risk trespassing and the dangers of the unstable terrain. However, plans are underway to reopen a section of the Sunken City. The City Council has approved funding for environmental monitoring and safety upgrades. Sophie Gilchrist, communications director for Councilmember Tim McOsker, stated that while there is no precise timeline, the project is actively moving forward.
