Welcome to Schomer Cove, a historical gem nestled on the vibrant Tiburon Peninsula in Marin County, California. As you explore this picturesque area, you’re stepping into a rich tapestry of history that dates back to the early days of California. The name Tiburon, meaning ‘shark’ in Spanish, hints at the waters teeming with leopard sharks that surround this peninsula.
The land you stand on was once inhabited by the Coast Miwok Indians for thousands of years, leaving behind intriguing rock carvings on Ring Mountain. Fast forward to the 19th century, the area became part of the Rancho Corte Madera del Presidio, granted to John Reed by Mexican authorities in 1834. Reed, an enterprising immigrant from Dublin, left a significant mark on the area, with his name still adorning streets and establishments today.
In the late 1800s, a transformative development occurred when Peter Donahue arrived with the San Francisco and North Pacific Railroad. By 1882, Tiburon had become a bustling railroad terminus, connecting the peninsula with the rest of the Bay Area through passenger ferries and freight barges. This era marked Tiburon’s transition from a quiet settlement to a vital transportation hub.
Among the notable figures who shaped Tiburon’s history is Dr. Benjamin Lyford, the area’s first land developer, known for Lyford’s Hygeia, now Old Tiburon. His efforts, alongside those of his wife Hilarita Reed, helped lay the foundation for modern Tiburon.
Today, Tiburon and its charming locales like Schomer Cove offer more than just stunning views. They’re a testament to a history of transformation and adaptation, from its Native American roots to its role as a bustling railroad town, and now to a serene yet vibrant community linked with the broader Bay Area through efficient ferry services. As you continue your journey, let the echoes of history enrich your experience and connect you with the fascinating stories of those who walked these paths before you.
