The San Fernando Valley is one of the most diverse and interesting regions in all of Los Angeles. Bordered by the Santa Monica Mountains to the west and the Simi Hills to the east, this eclectic area is filled with history, culture, and natural beauty. While it's best known for its sprawling suburbs and world-famous film studios, there are plenty of quirky things about the SFV that even locals don't know about. Here are 5 fun facts about the San Fernando Valley that will make you want to explore it for yourself!
1. The Valley was once its own independent city.
Before it was annexed by Los Angeles in 1915, the San Fernando Valley was its own self-sufficient municipality. With a population of just over 11,000, the City of San Fernando was home to a variety of businesses and industries, including a brickyard, a dairy farm, and a fruit packing company. There were even plans to build an interurban railway that would connect the Valley to downtown Los Angeles, but unfortunately the project was never completed.
2. It's home to the oldest building in the city.
The San Fernando Mission, founded in 1797, is the oldest structure in Los Angeles. The mission was originally built to serve as a way station for missionaries travelling between Mexico and California, and today it's a popular tourist destination. Visitors can explore the grounds, which include a cemetery and a small chapel, or take a self-guided tour of the museum.
3. There are more than 1.75 million people living in the Valley.
With an area of over 260 square miles, the San Fernando Valley is one of the most populous regions in Los Angeles County. According to the 2010 census, there are more than 1.75 million people living in the Valley, making it one of the most densely populated areas in the country.
4. The Valley has its own mountain range.
The Santa Susana Mountains are located entirely within the boundaries of the San Fernando Valley. This range includes some of the highest peaks in the area, making hikers flock to the trails in search of incredible views.
5. It was once dubbed "Valley of the Stars."
In the early days of Hollywood, many famous actors and actresses made their homes in the San Fernando Valley. Nicknamed "Valley of the Stars," this idyllic region was the perfect place for Hollywood's elite to escape the hustle and bustle of city life. Some of the biggest names in Tinseltown, including Charlie Chaplin, Buster Keaton, and Mary Pickford, all called the Valley home at one time or another.
The San Fernando Valley is a unique and interesting place with a lot of history and culture. From its days as an independent city to its current status as a major film production center, the Valley has always been a special place. If you're looking for something different to do in Los Angeles, be sure to check out the San Fernando Valley!
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