Altadena

What secrets does Altadena hold? Altadena is nestled against the San Gabriel Mountains, just north of Pasadena. It’s a place where millionaires built mansions and artists found inspiration. Altadena’s story begins in the mid-1860s with Benjamin S. Eaton. He saw the potential of the Arroyo Seco and Eaton Canyon. He developed the water sources, making the growth of Altadena, Pasadena, and South Pasadena possible. The name “Altadena” is a blend of Spanish and likely a nod to Pasadena. It was coined by Byron O. Clark, who established the Altadena Nursery in 1875. The name reflects Altadena’s location, “alta” meaning “upper” in Spanish, and “dena” adapted from Pasadena. In the late 1800s, Altadena started attracting wealthy families from the East. Millionaires built grand homes along Mariposa Street, creating what became known as “Millionaire’s Row.” One notable resident was author Zane Grey. The grandson of another early resident, printing magnate Andrew McNally, became the famous Southern California architect Wallace Neff. Neff’s work can still be seen in Altadena today, most notably St. Elizabeth of Hungary Catholic Church. Altadena has a unique history of resisting annexation by Pasadena. Despite several attempts, Altadena has remained an independent community. This fierce independence is part of Altadena’s character. In the 1960s and 70s, Altadena experienced significant demographic shifts due to white flight and the arrival of people of color. This led to a more diverse community. Today, Altadena remains a vibrant mix of cultures and backgrounds. Altadena is also known for its Christmas Tree Lane, a dazzling display of lights on Santa Rosa Avenue. This tradition dates back to 1920. It is the oldest large-scale outdoor Christmas lighting display in the world. Altadena also has a thriving arts scene. It was home to the quirky Bunny Museum, which sadly perished in the devastating Eaton Fire of 2025. This fire was a major blow to Altadena. It claimed lives and destroyed many historic structures. However, Altadena’s spirit of resilience remains strong. From its early days as a farming community to its rise as a haven for artists and millionaires, Altadena has always charted its own course. It’s a community proud of its independence, its diversity, and its unique charm. As you explore Altadena, remember its rich history and the stories of those who have shaped its identity.