The Venice Canals...And A Goose!

Travel has the power to open the mind and heart. This has been a part of my inspiration as it was for the late Abbot Kinney.

In the late 1800s, this real estate developer had the great fortune to travel extensively throughout much of Europe and the world.  When he finally settled in Santa Monica, his visit to Venice (Italy) was the inspiration for the creation of the Venice Canals which are this week’s Free Your Soul moment.

Originally known as Ocean Park until 1911 when it became the Venice of California, the canals proudly stand as a remnant of this great man’s vision. Built in 1905 and nearly “destroyed” by 1929, four east-west canals and two north-south canals remain.

The serenity, uniqueness and magical beauty of this area attracts tourists from all over the world…over 100years later! Speaking of magical, there is even a quaint duck pond in the canals where I saw a goose mingling with the ducks.  

For more information go to http://www.venicechamber.net/doandsee.html