Lake Elsinore, (ca)( Series - Postcard History Series )

The city of Lake Elsinore is home to Southern Californias only natural lake. Since the 1800s, the lake has provided respite and recreation, beginning as a campsite for early pioneer travelers and later evolving into a world-class playground for the rich and famous. In 1951, Lake Elsinores popularity suffered when the lake dried up, causing many of the recreational activities to move away. Today the lake is maintained at an ideal 1,240 feet above sea level and filled with weekend watercraft and fishermen, while families picnic nearby and the city enjoys a major growth in population and businesses.