The San Diego Press Club took its place in local history Tuesday when a plaque was unveiled in the lobby of the historic Spreckels Building downtown.
The plaque, commemorating the club’s founding in 1973, is in a building constructed in 1912 by John D. Spreckels, then owner of the city’s two newspapers, and just steps from a bar, now Dobson’s, that was frequented by journalists for decades.
“Every time I walk in here, I can feel the history,” said Terry Williams, executive director of the press club, one of the oldest and largest in the country.
John Shlaes, whose family owns the building, said San Diego’s press has always been connected with the building and he is delighted to have the club as a tenant. The building is being upgraded, he said, and occupancy is growing.
“We are so honored and feel so welcome,” said Kris Eitland, president of the club, after removing a curtain hiding the plaque.
