James Grevatt
James Grevatt was 11 years old when he came to live in Fallbrook in 1947. His parents had purchased a 10 acre avocado and lemon grove between West Ivy and West Dougherty Street. Grevatt soon found himself in Fallbrook hospital, then on Main Street, due to an accidental gunshot wound to his ankle. After recovering, he entered 7th grade at Fallbrook Grammar School, now Maie Ellis Elementary. Grevatt marveled at how “sincerely friendly” his classmates were.
Jim graduated from Fallbrook High School in 1953 and entered Palomar College to become a science teacher. He worked part-time for several local employers including River Road nursery, the Fallbrook Baptist Church and later the Chevron Gas Station.
Grevatt was married to a fellow Fallbrook High School graduate, Patricia Klaviter from 1956 until her death in 2002. Together they raised 4 children, Sharon, Mike Gail and Lois. Their grandson, niece and nephew are all graduates of Fallbrook High School.
1956 Wedding
Juniper Trailer Park 1959
Scholarship
Gravatt continued his studies at San Diego State University, eventually earning a Master’s degree. He had a long and fulfilling career in teaching, and as a Professor of Psychology and Counseling, while continuing to help care for the Fallbrook acreage.
After his father’s death, Grevatt purchased the Fallbrook property from his mother. The small home was soon remodeled. The new addition was built with the old house inside, and now his entire childhood home is his family room.
Still a proud Fallbrook Warrior, Grevatt is an active member of the Fallbrook Alumni Association and volunteers for the Fallbrook Historical Society.
He is known for driving around town in his 1928 Model A Ford, which has been seen at the Hot Summer Nights events and the yearly local car club show. “Fallbrook is restful but there is a lot to do here,” he said. “Living in Fallbrook has always been a positive experience for me!”
1928 Model A Ford
Dad’s Restored Model A
