In 1912, Charles and Willa Bruce, Black Californians, purchased a small slice of Manhattan Beach real estate for approximately $1,200. They constructed a resort to cater to fellow Black families who faced exclusion from Whites-only beaches. The resort even provided rental bathing suits and sold snacks. However, they were immediately targeted by racist attacks. The neighbors, police, city council, and even the Klan made attempts to close down the beach. The city implemented 10-minute parking limits near the beach in an effort to discourage visitors. Eventually, in 1924, the Manhattan Beach city council seized the property completely, offering the Bruces a fraction of their requested price. Presently, the beachfront property is valued at around $20 million. Los Angeles County has voted to return it to the descendants of the Bruces.