Manhattan Beach police are actively investigating the theft of a bronze plaque that recounted the tumultuous history of Bruce’s Beach. The incident, reported on Monday, is part of a disturbing trend where thieves target metal items for resale. The stolen plaque, installed early last year, had been described by city officials as possessing “significant historical and cultural value.”

The Troubled Past of Bruce’s Beach

The purloined plaque delved into the troubled history of Bruce’s Beach, a pristine piece of land in Manhattan Beach that was once owned by a Black family in the early 1900s. Charles and Willa Bruce, the owners, had developed a small resort catering exclusively to Black residents from across the county. However, the city of Manhattan Beach condemned the property under the guise of creating a park, evicting the Bruces and other Black families. The land remained vacant for years until a park was finally built in 1960.

Decades of Injustice

The property’s ownership underwent several transfers, ultimately returning to the Bruce family in 2022. County Supervisor Janice Hahn advocated for the restitution, aiming to correct the “injustice inflicted upon not just Willa and Charles Bruce but generations of their descendants.” In 2023, the Bruce family agreed to sell the land back to the county for $20 million, marking a significant milestone in the quest for justice.

Installation of the Bronze Plaque

In early 2023, the city of Manhattan Beach installed the bronze plaque at the site, offering a detailed history of the land. The plaque served as a poignant reminder of the struggles faced by the Bruce family and the broader African American community in the area.

Rising Metal Thefts Across Southern California

The theft of the Bruce’s Beach plaque is part of a larger pattern of metal thefts in Southern California. Thieves have targeted bronze and other metals due to increasing market prices. Recent incidents include the theft of name plaques from gravesites at Lincoln Memorial Park cemetery and the stealing of metal markers from graves at Woodlawn Celestial Gardens. A copper statue was also stolen from outside Marco Antonio Firebaugh High School in Lynwood.

Government Response and Measures

In response to the escalating thefts, two Los Angeles City Council members have announced measures to address the issue. These measures aim to crack down on copper wire theft, which has led to the loss of street lights and other infrastructure in various locations, including the iconic Sixth Street Bridge downtown.

Call for Information

Manhattan Beach police are urging anyone with information about the theft to contact Det. Sgt. Taylor Klosowki at 310-802-5123 or CrimeStoppers at 800-222-TIPS (8477).

Safeguarding Historical Narratives

The theft of the Bruce’s Beach plaque not only represents a loss of a tangible piece of history but also underscores the importance of safeguarding historical narratives. As communities grapple with the impact of thefts on their heritage, efforts to preserve and retell these stories become increasingly crucial. The incident at Bruce’s Beach serves as a stark reminder of the ongoing challenges in preserving and respecting the historical experiences of marginalized communities.