Rancho Santa Fe History

Rancho Santa Fe has passed through many hands, originally being an Indian Rancheria.

The Santa Fe Land Improvement Company acquired the majority of the Original Rancho San Dieguito land grant in 1906. Their intent being to grow massive tree farms for railroad ties. They planted millions of eucalyptus trees, which they later realized could not be used for railroad ties.

After their failed attempt at turning the land into a source for railroad ties they decided develop a community inspired by spanish architecture and landscaping, creating one of the first planned communities in California. Throughout the entire process environmental impact was a top priority.

The architect for the subdivision was Lilian Rice, whom was one of the first architecture graduates from the University of California at Berkeley. Inspired by homes in Spain, Rice created harmony between the surrounding natural beauty while adhering to a Spanish Colonial Revival style.

From the homes to the streets every aspect of the community was designed with safety, privacy, and beauty in mind. The gently winding roads keep speeding under control and the backyards are landscaped in a way that reduces noise. Balancing new technology with nature so that streets are not marred by concrete sidewalks and dusk is kept serene without the blinking of ugly street lights. Every aspect and every detail designed to consistent adherence to the theme throughout.

The state of California formally recognized the areas historical value in 1989 and was officially designated a State Historic Landmark. In 2004 the area was also named a California Cultural Landmark.

Rancho Santa Fe is no doubt a moel used for the many planned communities developed in San Diego and Orange Counties.

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