Like most of America, Pasadena, California, was inhabited by a Native American tribe called the Hahamogna. They lived in small villages in the Arroyo Seco canyon and made their way of life off local wildlife and plants.
When the Spanish came to this area in 1771, they established the San Gabriel Mission. Native Americans were converted and helped the Spanish by providing labor. The land was hearty and many orchards provided for the Spanish crown until 1833 when California fell into Mexico’s control and gave the San Gabriel Mission land to individuals.
Several notable families lived in what would become Pasadena, including Colonel Manuel Garfias, son of a distinguished Mexican family.
In 1850 California became a state in the union.
With the growth in the area with paved streets, a sewer system, and outside electrical lights, Pasadena was incorporated, and in 1901, it became a charter city with an elected mayor.
The city also welcomed growth from immigrants from China and Mexico and included black families who settled in the area.
In 1913 some of the best-known architects resided in Pasadena and helped Pasadena be known for its fine architecture.
Though the city has seen some downtimes now, the city is striving to make a strong community that welcomes education, and a deselect for the beautiful architecture of its past as Pasadena pushed for major revitalization in Old Pasadena in the 80s and has since shown excellent results.
Now the city has claims to fame from education to art to entertainment. Pasadena has come a long way but is genuinely an American tale of inspiration and has worked its way into the minds across the country.
