Pleasanton, California, a picturesque city in California's Alameda County, is an ideal place to live and work. In fact, it has even been named as one of best places in the country to live by both Forbes and Money magazine. With a mild climate and close access to the San Francisco Bay, it is little wonder that many people flock to this mid-size city, which has a population of slightly more than 70,000 inhabitants.
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.
While Pleasanton truly is a pleasant place to be, that isn't how it earned its name. The town was named in honor of the Union army cavalry Major General Alfred Pleasonton, who was an essential part of the Union's victory at Gettysburg. However, when the U.S. Postal Service recorded the name of the town, the employee responsible made a spelling error and the town became known by its current spelling.
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.
The Alameda County Fairgrounds also are located in Pleasanton, and the county fair occurs every year in late June. The fair has been a tradition in Pleasonton since 1912, and the fairgrounds also is home to the oldest single-track horse racing track in the country. Races have been going on here since its construction back in 1858. One unique event held at the fairgrounds annually is the Scottish Highland Gathering and Games, which has been going on since the 1860s and is perhaps the largest Scottish gathering in the country.
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.
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.
While Pleasanton truly is a pleasant place to be, that isn't how it earned its name. The town was named in honor of the Union army cavalry Major General Alfred Pleasonton, who was an essential part of the Union's victory at Gettysburg. However, when the U.S. Postal Service recorded the name of the town, the employee responsible made a spelling error and the town became known by its current spelling.
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.
The Alameda County Fairgrounds also are located in Pleasanton, and the county fair occurs every year in late June. The fair has been a tradition in Pleasonton since 1912, and the fairgrounds also is home to the oldest single-track horse racing track in the country. Races have been going on here since its construction back in 1858. One unique event held at the fairgrounds annually is the Scottish Highland Gathering and Games, which has been going on since the 1860s and is perhaps the largest Scottish gathering in the country.
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.
About the Author:
Madeleine Glazier loves blogging about the real estate industry. If you are searching for licensed Moraga real estate agents, or to discover Pleasanton homes for sale, please go to the 1stInsite.com site today.