Gossip Friday: Clark Gable in Vallejo

From July 1940:

In a short but interesting interview with Clark Gable, visiting movie actor, this morning in the lounge of the Casa de Vallejo, quite a few Vallejoans learned just what a real fellow he is.

Clark came down to Vallejo this morning from Napa aboard Councilman James Fisher’s yacht and reported an enjoyable trip. He said, “Vallejo looks like a nice place. However, due to my limited time, I will be unable to judge it well.”

Leaving about 11 o’clock this morning from the Vallejo Yacht Club aboard Dr. E.J. Casper’s “Junemma,” Mr. Gable hoped for some good fishing in the bay area, as, like golf and hunting, it is one of his favorite hobbies.

When asked about his wife’s (Carole Lombard) picture, “They Knew What They Wanted,” he reported that shooting of scenes should be completed by the end of this week and said that much comment had been made as to the changing of the picture’s name, which is to be the same as the old stage play. Permission has been received from the board of censors.

When asked “Why did they pick Napa for shooting the scenes?” Mr. Gable replied that the original play was centered around the Napa Valley with its acres and acres of vineyards for a setting and its rolling hills as a background.

Many admirers came into the hotel for Mr. Gable’s autograph and to get a glimpse at this movie idol. He very happily signed the many notebooks, pamphlets and slips of paper handed to him. Says it is all a part of his work.

Clark Gable plans to return to Napa this evening. He probably will leave the end of the week for a trip to Oregon before returning to the studio August 1.