Flashback Nov. 20: William Kettner – man behind Kettner Boulevard, more

On Nov. 20, 1864, William “Bill” Kettner was born in Ann Arbor, Mich., home to the University of Michigan (Go Blue!) In his later years, he would become a driving force behind San Diego’s transformation into a major naval city.

Kettner moved to San Diego in the late 1880s, built a business career in insurance and real estate, and became an active civic leader. In 1912, he was elected U.S. Representative for California’s 11th District and served four terms from 1913 to 1921. While in Congress, he utilized his committee assignments on Rivers & Harbors and Naval Affairs to secure federal funding for critical naval infrastructure in San Diego, including harbor dredging, a fuel station on Point Loma, radio stations, and major base expansions. 

Kettner’s legacy remains visible in the city today. In 1919, the San Diego Fire Department commissioned its first gasoline-powered fireboat and named it Bill Kettner in his honor.  And in 1930, shortly after his death, Arctic Street was officially renamed Kettner Boulevard, commemorating his contributions to the city’s growth.

Through his political acumen and unwavering commitment to San Diego, Kettner played a pivotal role in shaping the city’s maritime and military future. His work laid the foundation for San Diego to become a key naval hub — and his name now travels with every car down the boulevard he inspired.

The next time you find yourself on Kettner Boulevard, remember the man who made it possible!

Check out the other San Diego Flashback and historical articles here.

Sources:

• San Diego History Center, “William Kettner (1864–1930)
• “William Kettner: San Diego’s Dynamic Congressman,” Journal of San Diego History
• Joan M. Jensen, “The Politics and History of William Kettner”
• San Diego City Fire Department history, including the Bill Kettner fireboat
• “Bill Kettner (fireboat)
• Urban planning history referencing Kettner’s role in harbor development