The Rich History of Old Town San Diego is an introduction to the history and culture of this amazing neighborhood. Learn about its rich history, how it became a National Historic Landmark District and more by reading on!
Though it may not be as well-known as other neighborhoods in San Diego, Old Town has just as much to offer. This historic city has many stories to tell, from its founding in 1835 to what makes this neighborhood so special today. Take a look at the following text for information about the story behind the name, what makes this neighborhood so unique and more!
The Birth of Old Town
Old Town was founded in 1835 by Alonzo Erastus Horton. Mr. Horton, a Massachusetts farmer and veteran of the American Revolutionary War, had a vision for a city surrounded by adobe-style homes. The town would be built around a large central plaza that was open to commerce and the community as a whole. This “”new”” city was set to have strict rules about who could live there, as well as who could visit and what they could sell. This exclusive policy made Old Town the first planned community in the history of California!
The Missions of Old Town
The Missions of Old Town was founded in 1769, and it became the second mission established in California. It is named for Mission San Diego de Alcala, which was founded by Father Junipero Serra in 1769. The original name was simply Mission San Diego; however, people later started to refer to it as “La Misión de Santa Ana” (St. Anne’s). Because there were multiple missions that used the same name, they were called by both their names and their founding dates.
What to do when you visit Old Town for the first time
When visiting Old Town for the first time, one of the biggest draws is to explore the adobe buildings that were constructed in 1893. This makes Old Town San Diego the oldest historic district with continuously occupied commercial structures west of Texas. Though these buildings are not all open to the public, you can get a taste of what it would have been like to walk through the historic streets. Other attractions are the many museums, murals, restaurants and shops that are available to explore!
What makes Old Town so unique?
Old Town San Diego is one of the most well-preserved settlements in North America. As a National Historic Landmark District, this neighborhood contains over 60 historical structures that were built between 1820 and 1870.
Additionally, Old Town is known for its many historic restaurants that serve traditional Mexican dishes. This neighborhood is also home to the oldest public park in California. If you are looking for somewhere unique to spend your day, visit Old Town!
Old Town In A Nutshell
If you’re looking for a day trip that has history, culture and great food all in one place then it’s time to visit Old Town San Diego. This historic city is full of adobe buildings from the 1800s as well as many museums, restaurants and shops. You’ll find everything from traditional Mexican dishes at local eateries to historical murals along the way–it would be hard not to enjoy yourself! If you want more information about what makes this neighborhood so special or how it became a National Historic Landmark District, take a look at our blog post above for some insights! What do visitors say are their favorite things about visiting? Let us know by leaving your comments below!