A breathtaking view. That’s Rancho Palos Verdes. Rolling hills meet the Pacific Ocean. This stunning landscape wasn’t always as we see it today.
Rancho Palos Verdes has a rich history. In the late 1800s it was home to a few ranchers and shepherds. The land was mostly untouched. Native vegetation covered the hills. Then in the early 1900s things changed. Japanese families farmed the land. They grew beans peas and tomatoes. Barley hay and grain grew on the drier slopes. This was short-lived. A wealthy banker Frank Vanderlip had a vision. He wanted to build an exclusive residential community. The Great Depression and World War II delayed his plans. The beauty of Rancho Palos Verdes however remained.
After World War II the area saw rapid growth. Los Angeles County granted permits. Higher density construction became possible. This led to concerns about the environment. Local leaders fought to protect Rancho Palos Verdes’ natural beauty. They tried to convince the County to slow down development.
The Peninsula Advisory Council formed. It included residents and leaders from the other cities. They worked to protect the coast. Despite their efforts a new master plan was revealed. It allowed for high-rise buildings. This prompted the formation of Save Our Coastline. Their goal was to incorporate the area. This would give local residents more control. The fight for incorporation was challenging. They faced legal battles and opposition from developers. Eventually they won.
In 1973 Rancho Palos Verdes became a city. It is the youngest of the four cities on the Palos Verdes Peninsula. Each city formed to preserve its unique qualities. Rancho Palos Verdes continues to thrive. Its beautiful views rolling hills and mild climate attract people from around the world. Its residents are proud. They work hard to protect Rancho Palos Verdes’s special character. This unique city balances upscale homes and open space. It is a place of natural beauty and community spirit. A truly remarkable place.