Photograph Offers Glimpse into 1946 Pacific Beach Commercial Scene

San Diego, CA, September 2, 2026 —

A historical photograph from the San Diego History Center offers a window into the past, specifically showcasing Barrett’s Beauty Parlor. The establishment was located at 1578 Garnet Avenue in the Pacific Beach neighborhood of San Diego.

The image is dated to approximately 1946, a period following World War II. This era is widely recognized for significant postwar expansion across many American communities, including urban and suburban areas like Pacific Beach.

The photograph serves as a visual record, intended to provide insight into the commercial fabric of the neighborhood during this time of growth. It highlights the types of businesses operating and offers a perspective on the daily life and local economy as Pacific Beach developed in the mid-20th century.

Details regarding the specific business operations of Barrett’s Beauty Parlor, its owner, or its clientele are not provided within the context of this photographic offering. Similarly, information about the building’s history beyond the depicted timeframe or its status today is not available through this summary.

The San Diego History Center frequently archives and shares images that document the evolution of San Diego’s neighborhoods and their commercial districts. These visual artifacts are often used to illustrate the historical context and societal changes experienced by the city and its residents over decades.

The photograph of Barrett’s Beauty Parlor is presented as an example of such documentation, contributing to the understanding of Pacific Beach’s history and its transformation during the post-war economic boom.

Story summarized from the original created by Debbie L. Sklar • Times of San Diego on timesofsandiego.com, see more information here.

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