Sunday, January 26, 2014

History & Facts About Pleasanton, California

By Madeleine Glazier


There are many reasons why Pleasanton, a mid-size city of about 70,000 located in the California county of Alameda, is considered one of the best U.S. cities in which to live. Not only is it close to all the fun of San Francisco, Oakland and Berkeley, the climate averages out at a balmy 73 degrees each year. Picturesque scenery and well-tended neighborhoods also attract some of the nation's wealthiest families to this city.

The Ohlone people were the first inhabitants of the area, dating back as far as 4,000 years ago. In the 18th Century, Spanish settlers arrived and the natives were forced into the Spanish mission system, and the land became part of Rancho Santa Rita. After California was acquired by the United States and gold was discovered in 1848, the area was well traveled by those seeking their fortune, and a town called Alisal sprang up. Unfortunately, this settlement was a well-known den of outlaws, gunfighters and other unsavory types. Eventually, as the Gold Rush settled down, the town became far more pleasant, and the actual town of Pleasanton was incorporated in 1894.

You might think that Pleasanton was so named due its lovely weather and pleasant aspect, but this is not the case. It was actually supposed to be named, "Pleasonton," after Alfred Pleasonton, who was the Union cavalry Major General that helped to defeat the Confederacy during the Gettysburg Campaign of the United States Civil War. When a post office employee recorded the name of this new California city, he or she accidentally spelled it as Pleasanton and the spelling was never corrected and it still stands today.

There are many attractions in this city, and visitors often enjoy strolling through the historic downtown area, which boasts late 19th century architecture as well as shops, pubs and restaurants. There are quite a few events scheduled downtown during the course of the year, such as the annual tree lighting and holiday parade in December. The 1st Wednesday Street Party events also are popular, and visitors can enjoy a cold beer or glass of wine while they browse through shops and booths while enjoying live music.

Another interesting attraction in Pleasanton is the Alameda County Fairgrounds, which hosts the county fair every year as well as many other interesting events. For instance, the Scottish Highland Gathering and Games, perhaps the largest two-day event dedicated to Scottish culture in the country, is a popular annual event. The fairgrounds also includes a single-track horseracing venue, which opened in 1858, making it the oldest single-track in the United States.

If you are in the market for Pleasanton real estate or perhaps a house in a nearby town such as Livermore, it is best to find a real estate company that specializes in finding homes in Pleasanton and Alameda County. The team at 1stInSite.com can help you find the perfect home in Pleasanton, Livermore, Dublin, San Ramon or any other local city.




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