Top Landmarks in Anaheim
photo credit: Ned Raggett
Anaheim California is home to a number landmarks that can spark historical and cultural interest in almost every visitor. Best known as being the home to a number of theme parks, such as the very famous Disneyland, Anaheim actually has much more to offer.
Anaheim was founded in 1857 by grape farmers and wine makers and for a while these mainly German settlers flourished, but an insect infestation in 1880 wiped out these crops and other types of produce took their place. Oranges were the main source of income for farmers in this very agricultural region until 1955 when Disneyland opened its doors to the public.
One landmark that dates back to the era of grape farming is the Mother Colony House. Built in 1857 by George Hansen, the man hired to plan the layout of the future Anaheim by 50 families that were part of the Los Angeles Vineyard Society. The hope was to turn the area into a successful grape growing community. In its original concoction, Mother Colony House didn’t have a kitchen or indoor bathroom. It wasn’t until it was sold in 1963 that the cottage was developed into a three bedroom house. The home was set to be demolished when it was purchased by the Daughters of the American Revolution who had it moved to West Street. It wasn’t until 1929 that the home was dedicated as a museum, making it the oldest museum in Orange County.
Established shortly after Mother Colony, Anaheim Landing was the creation of the Anaheim Landing Company and served as a port for the Santa Ana Valley for 15 years, even though the entrance was quite dangerous and there were several shipping disasters. By 1915 the area had transformed and used the seaside location to its advantage by turning the beach into a family fun place complete with roller coaster. As the years progressed the family atmosphere waned in the 1920′s as gambling casinos and a rough crowd moved in, but that also didn’t last long and the beach was once again reclaimed by families and tourists. Now known as Seal Beach there is nothing left of the original Landing or the rollercoaster and gambling halls, but the area is still a landmark and a great tourist destination for families.
Listed as an Orange County landmark, the North Gate of the City of Anaheim was originally a wall of willow poles surrounding the Anaheim Colony to keep out wild animals and protect the precious original grape fields and then the other crops which would eventually follow. Gates were placed at the north, east, south and west sides of town on the main streets to allow passage. Today there is little left to suggest a colony of organized grape producers once lived inside protected walls, but there is a historical marker at least taking note of the location of one of the gates.
Anaheim White House speaks to the wealth and success some of the western settlers discovered. Built in 1909 by Dosithe Gervais the home was sold not long after to Mr. and Mrs. George Waterman who just as quickly passed it along to Dr. and Louise Truxaw who firmly established themselves in the community. The home passed through a few hands until 1981 when Jim and Barbara Stovall purchased the home as a tear down and made elaborate plans to build a condominium. It wasn’t until the night before the home was to be destroyed that Barbara confessed she simply couldn’t bear to destroy the gorgeous old home and instead it became The White House Restaurant. During the restoration of the home to its original condition, much care was taking to return the home to its original glory. Currently the restaurant is owned by Bruno Serato and it’s been redubbed the Anaheim White House, it’s a historical landmark and a celebrated Italian restaurant. It’s the perfect end to a day of historical curiosities.
Another noted landmark in Anaheim is the Crystal Cathedral which is an active ministry and home of the Hour of Power television and online show. But even the non-religious can enjoy the experience of this landmark building. This magnificent building is really a site to behold. Designed by Philip Johnson the four-pointed star contains 10,000 panes of glass and seating for almost 3,000. Admission to the cathedral is free but if there is a special event, which there quite often is, there may be a fee. A gorgeous architectural feat, the Crystal Cathedral is a photo opportunity landmark.
Another landmark in Anaheim, whether you like him or not, is the Richard Nixon Library and Birthplace Foundation. Packed with fascinating history from the Ex-President’s lifetime and political career. Quite possibly the most famous scandal in U.S. Presidential history, the Watergate recording that became the smoking gun of his trial, is available for visitors to listen to. In addition to the museum artifacts and historical relics, the museum hosts many guests and events throughout the year and you may be lucky enough to get in on one of these noteworthy events. If you find the past of Richard Nixon fascinating the you may want to travel the short distance to Yorba Linda, to take a tour of the Richard Nixon Birthplace. The home was one of the popular kit projects of the era and stands today with most of the original furnishings and very little in the way of renovations.
Not exactly a landmark, and currently not listed on the historical register, although I’m sure it will have its day, Anaheim’s world-famous Disneyland is truly a landmark that cant be missed, especially if you’ve never been or you have small children. Disneyland is a magic land with sights and sounds that just can’t be found anywhere else, unless it’s another Disney park.
Anaheim is best known for its Walt Disney concoction, but there is more to offer in this bustling tourist town, once a noted farming community the past is not forgotten and honored in several different ways throughout the community. Take a minute to look behind the curtain and see what else Anaheim’s Landmarks have to offer. The area is best accessed through John Wayne Aiport in Orange County, but consider LAX Airport, Burbank Airport, Long Beach Airport, or even San Diego Airport as alternatives.
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Categories: Sightseeing
