Robinson Memorial

A Memorial to Fran and Frank Robinson

As most of you know, Fran and Frank Robinson began their long, hard battle in 1963 to make certain that Upper Newport Bay would remain a public treasure for future generations to enjoy forever. If not for the success of these two "local heroes" the Back Bay most likely would have become just another marina surrounded by houses. When Fran passed away in 2001, we realized that it was time for all of us to recognize their incredible accomplishment by contributing to a lasting tribute to their efforts.

After Fran’s death, Jack Keating and others consulted with Frank and his son Jay to establish a suitable site at the Bay that would permanently recognize this major accomplishment. Frank made it clear he wanted more than a memorial - he wanted something that would serve the recreational, educational and aesthetic needs of the surrounding community. The Friends Lookout at the junction of East Bluff and Back Bay Drives, has been the meeting point for the "Friends" guided tours since their inception in 1968 was the logical location for what would become Vista Point. With the support and help of Brian Shelton (then Department of Fish and Game UNB Land Manager), we felt confident in moving forward with using this site. Architect Ron Yeo and designer Jim Cokas worked on a site plan involving re-landscaping and adding a raised seating platform with a capacity of 40-50 people as well a permanent display with a plaque of appreciation of the Robinsons. Sadly Frank died in 2003 while the project was still in the conceptual phase. See Tribute.

A Robinson Memorial Fund was established to make Vista Point a reality. Our original plan was to have this project completed before the conclusion of the 2003-4 Friends season of guided tours in March of 2004. Many of you gave monetary donations as a "thank-you" for all the Robinsons have meant for the preservation of the Bay. Other individuals and organizations contributed professional and construction services to help the project along. And in parallel with this, the process of obtaining a California Coastal Commission permit was begun. Numerous difficulties were encountered along the way, right up to the very end of construction. But finally the opening ceremony took place on November 8, 2008. In thanking everyone for making his father's wish a reality, Jay Robinson recognized Jack Keating's role in championing the project. Without Jack's perseverance the project would not have been completed.

Donor list here.