Picture of the Month 2024-25

As part of our Mission to share the history of El Sereno with the community and public, we plan to present a new picture/historic document every month. This will allow us, the El Sereno Historical Society, to continue sharing recent historic discoveries.

But more importantly it will allow you, our readers and supporters, the chance to have any hidden or long-forgotten historic gems be shared with our great El Sereno community. Sharing and learning about our history is a community effort, and we thank all those who contribute and add to our growing historic community's website.

Rudolf Valentino's Casket, 1926

Photograph of famous actor Rudolf Valentino's casket being loaded on to the hearst at the old railroad crossing at Alhambra Av & Valley Blvd, 1926.

Shortly after his final film, The Son of the Sheik, opened, in August 1926, he was hospitalized in New York because of a ruptured ulcer. Fans stood in a teary-eyed vigil outside Polyclinic Hospital for a week, but shortly after 12 p.m. on August 23, he succumbed to infection.

Shout out to ESHS board member Louis Salcido for sharing this pic.!

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August 2025 Honoring Steve Martinez (Wilson Class of 1978)

Steve Martinez (Class of 1978)

The Wilson Mules Alumni Association, a 501c3 non-profit organization, works year round to fundraise. Its proceeds go towards scholarships, equipment for the athletic department, and other school programs.

Today, the Wilson Mules Alumni Association honored Steve Martinez (Class of 1978) at their Annual Tournament of Legends event at Brookside Golf Course and Country Club in Pasadena.

Steve Martinez was born, raised, and continues to live in El Sereno. Throughout his life, Steve has distinguished himself as a worthy recipient of this honor and exemplifies the very best the community of El Sereno has to offer.

As a boy, Steve attended El Sereno Elementary and El Sereno Jr. High School. He participated in youth sports at El Sereno Park, excelling in football and baseball. During his high school years at Woodrow Wilson High School, Steve played key roles as a DB and WR on 3 consecutive, undefeated Los Angeles City 3A Championship football titles.

Following high school, Steve received a full scholarship to attend the University of Wyoming. During his college football years, Steve established school records as a WR for both receptions and yards. However, Steve's greatest college achievement was meeting his future wife, Carol Nibbe. Steve and Carol Martinez have now been married 37 years.

Aside from his tremendous athletic achievements and a stellar 33-year career as an LAFD Firefighter, in 1986 Steve was instrumental in helping to establish the El Sereno Stallions youth football and cheer program at El Sereno Park. Steve served the organization in many capacities, including President, General Manager, and Coach.

Over the years, the El Sereno Stallions have provided high-quality football and cheer instruction to countless area youth. For good measure, Steve also helped coach football at Wilson High School during his sons, Laramie and Cole's playing years. He also started and oversaw the Wilson Football Booster Club for several years. Congratulations Steve!