Pleasanton history is steeped with many varied chapters of changing times - from Native Americans to a suburban landscape. This charming city is located just east of the beautiful city of San Francisco. This east Bay Area city is set in a unique geographic position that has influenced the history of Pleasanton, California.
Pleasanton, CA Background
The regional landscape and the geography itself have been driving forces in the development of Pleasanton. The land's natural abundance made it a perfect spot for Native Americans. Today, the geographic position and proximity to San Francisco make it a great place for families who enjoy an upscale lifestyle. These special forces will continue to influence Pleasanton, which is recognized as one of the top hometown spots in the nation.
History of Pleasanton
Located in the Amador Valley, Pleasanton is a true place of natural beauty. The area has long been home to a plethora of wild animals. These diverse species include salmon, bears, elk, reptiles and many others. Additionally, there are many plants here such as sycamore trees, oak trees, California grasses and waters teeming with aquatic life.
Native Americans originally called this special place home. The Ohlone lived here about 4,000 years ago. The Ohlone referred to themselves as simply “The People.” This tribe lived near Pleasanton Ridge and the lagoon. Modern people have found many traces of the Ohlone’s rich past in the area now known as Pleasanton.
Spanish settlers also came to this area around 1772 with this missions. The nearby Mission San Jose played an important role in the outcome of history here. The Ohlone tribe was aggressively absorbed into the ways of the Spanish missionaries, and this influenced the culture of the native peoples.
Later in the 1850s, the Gold Rush to California was important in the history of Pleasanton. Agriculture and ranching also played an important role in the history of Pleasanton.