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The original residents in the Rohnert Park area of the Santa Rosa Valley were a small tribe of Indians who lived in a village called Kotate. These indigenous people belonged to the "nation" of Coast Miwok Indians. Their culture and lifestyle was formed by the natural resources in the area -- rolling hills, streams, lakes, woods and plentiful fish, game and vegetation. The valley land was also rich and inviting for farming and grazing. Sir Francis Drake was the first explorer to land near Tomales in 1579. He was soon followed by hundreds of Spanish and Mexican settlers who, in turn, built missions to try and protect their settlements from a wave of would-be Russian aggressors. To protect their interest, the Spanish had to pay their soldiers in land. Juan Castaneda received such a land grant in 1844: 17,238 acres that included present-day Rohnert Park. Castaneda called it "The Rancho Cotate."
Eventually The Rancho was sold to successful businessman Waldo Emerson Rohnert who partnered with the law firm of Golis and Fredericks to develop The Rancho. A master plan was developed and in 1962 the city of Rohnert Park was incorporated. Since then, the modern city of Rohnert Park has replaced the "seed farm" of its early years and grown into a modern, progressive city with outstanding cultural and recreational opportunities, award-winning schools and attractive, contemporary housing. Large employers such as Agilent Technologies, State Farm Insurance Company, Pacific Bell, Next Level Communication, CrossCheck, Inc., Parker Hannifin Corp., Transworld Systems and Rheodyne have helped create a vibrant economy and superior quality of life in Rohnert Park. In addition to the wine country, Rohnert Park is home to the Dorothy Rohnert Spreckels Performing Arts Center that houses two exceptional theatres -- the Nellie W. Codding and Bette Condiotti Experimental Theatres. The Spreckels Center provides the finest performing arts programming from around the world. Another premier performing arts center is located on the campus of Sonoma State University and a major North Bay concert facility is planned. Rohnert Park maintains 13 neighborhood parks with amenities ranging from quiet picnic areas and spacious green spaces to nature trails and bustling playgrounds. October Fest is a light-hearted annual event highlighting gourmet food, beer and folk dancing. While farming is a thing of the past in Rohnert Park, the modern city is a tribute to the dream of founding father Golis. There is so much more to this community. Just being able to use the word "community" and actually have it apply, is uncommon in today's California. We look forward to your visit! Or your continued interest in our community. | California Homes For Sale | - | US Real Estate for Sale | - | California Real Estate Listings | © Copyright 2008 http://www.rohnert-park-city.com/ All Rights Reserved. |
