How This Project Got Started

Sal Deguarda, The Heart of the Project

Salvatore Deguarda is the force behind this nonprofit project to resurrect the Pacifica Statue on Treasure Island.  Even at 90 years old, Sal continues to be inspired, and inspiring, about bringing back this prestigious monument to the San Francisco Bay Area.

His connection to the statue stems from his experience as a swimmer/diver for the Billy Rose Aquacade that performed during the ’39-40 World’s Fair.  He was just 20 years old.  Surrounded by the excitement of the fair, the lights, the events, and the camaraderie of his fellow ‘Aquabeaus’ and ‘Aquamaids’, it was one of the happiest times of his young adult life.

A lot has been written about the 1939-40 Golden Gate International Exposition.  The theme was Pacific Unity, and the Pacifica Statue was a towering symbol of that theme – unity and prosperity for all the nations and people of the Pacific Rim.  Such a lofty goal for a world-renowned event.  This was the kind of fanfare that drew the good wishes of presidents and statesmen.

But for Sal, the Pacifica Statue was his own personal symbol of pure joy, close friendships, physical vitality, and enduring love.  In this 3-minute video, Sal talks about his audition for the Aquacade, his impressions of the Fair, and the affection he felt for the Pacifica Statue.

Destruction and Resurrection

In 1989 Sal, along with swimming legend Esther Williams, took part as honorary citizens in a parade marking the 50th Anniversary of Treasure Island.  Sal was thrilled to be a part of the celebration as it reminded him of those happy days spent on the Island during the World’s Fair.  He even re-connected with some old friends and acquaintances, adding to the joyful event.  But then, for the first time in his life, he saw the pictures of when the original Pacifica Statue was destroyed.

Destruction of the original Pacifica

[still photos courtesy of Treasure Island Museum Collection]

In 1941 the statue was demolished with dynamite by the US Navy as they quickly made way for a Naval base.  The urgency of World War II called for a new purpose for Treasure Island which was suddenly no place for this great lady.

Seeing those pictures deeply affected Sal in an unexpected and heart-wrenching way.  Watching the still shots of that grand lady falling into rubble was like watching his own nostalgic happiness being obliterated.  It was at that moment that he decided to do whatever it took to bring his beloved Pacifica back!

Feel free to send Sal an email or ask him a question.  He’d love to hear from you!

Sal@PacificaStatueProject.org