The looming immensity of Moffett Field's Hangar One, built in 1933 to house the world's largest--and last--rigid-frame dirigible, is an unforgettable South Bay landmark. The lighter-than-air Macon cost 2.5 million Depression-era dollars and could hold 100 men and five Sparrowhawk biplanes, yet its silvery bulk hovered silently or sailed up to 80 miles an hour. It drew crowds as it darkened the skies around Mountain View until it broke up in a storm two years later. Other blimp squadrons, equipped with carrier pigeons instead of biplanes, succeeded the Macon. Moffett Field has at various times...

Located in the heart of the San Francisco peninsula, San Carlos is known as the "City of Good Living." Originally inhabited by the Costanos Indians, the town was part of the Rancho de las Pulgas land grant during the Spanish mission days. Incorporated in 1925, San Carlos is considered the birthplace of
today's Silicon Valley, having been home to such firms as Varian, Ampex, and Dalmo-Victor. The town has also boasted one of the military's largest dog-training facilities, the Morse Seed Company, and a number of great theaters. Community values are strong here, with popular events such as...