The Nate Harrison Grade was named after Nathaniel Harrison, a freed slave and, as legend goes, the first African-American to live in San Diego. Nate had a small cabin halfway up the grade and was known for providing food, fresh water from his spring and a place to stay for tired travelers.
The backstory of Nate is all over the place.The most reliable sources say hee was born in the South during the 1820's or 30's and made his way to California with his enslaver during the Gold Rush.
When Nate's enslaver died, Nate became a free man and eventually decided to call Palomar Mountain home. Nate lived there for at least 50 years roughly from 1865-1919.
There have been many fascinating finds from around the world during recent archaeological digs, suggesting that Nate lived a full life and most likely entertained many notable figures.