Carlsbad California

Carlsbad’s written history can be traced back to Father Juan Crespi’s visit in 1769, but archaeology records of the native Shoshone tribes go back to 10,000 – 20,000 BC.

In the late 1700’s, the Spanish arrived with missionaries who built missions and utilized the native tribes to start European style agriculture, irrigation systems, buildings, black-smithing and cattle/sheep ranches. New settlers spread across the land and dramatically reduced Native American populations down to two primary tribes who still reside here today – the Diegueños and Kumeyaay. Did you know that San Diego county has more Native American reservations than any other county in the US at 18?

By the late 1800s, a man named John Frazier had drilled and found a fresh supply of water in the hills along the coast. He later sold this land to a German immigrant Gerhard Schutte who found the water to have the same mineral content as a famous spa in Karlsbad, Bohemia – who the town was named after. This led to the development of the Carlsbad Land and Water Company, with Frazier staying on as the superintendent. By 1896, Carlsbad became a regular water stop for the newly constructed train between Los Angeles and San Diego.

After surviving a land bust in early 1900, the area pumped in more water from the San Luis Rey river to the north, and became an agricultural center for flowers and avocados. In 1927, the famous Highway 101 was completed through Carlsbad, and after WWII – a housing boom led to official city hood in 1952. Along the way, many of Carlsbad’s historic buildings were built, and the legal foundation to preserve its unique village culture was laid. And like most of coastal California, growth has continued non-stop since. 

The Carlsbad Historical Society was established in 1975 to preserve, promote and enhance the knowledge of the surrounding area’s history, significant landmarks, institutions and memorabilia. Their site has a much more comprehensive history if you want to learn more. You can also visit them at 258 Beech Street on Saturdays and Sundays, 11am – 3pm.