Local History
Before its incorporation in May 1957, Santa Fe Springs had a vibrant past that brought the area to prominence several times throughout its history. It was the hub for the early Spanish rancho of Jose Manuel Nieto, the holder of the largest Spanish land grant in California. Later, after a sulfur hot spring was discovered in the area, it became a popular destination for those seeking its curative powers; visitors headed to the Fulton Wells health resort, which was built around the sulfur spring. Following an oil strike in 1919, a dramatic change occurred in the area as oil derricks and refineries soon covered the landscape. Santa Fe Springs then became a destination for those seeking their fortunes. Such famous people as Alfonso Bell and J. Paul Getty started their careers here in one of the largest oil strikes in the country. Today, Santa Fe Springs is a thriving city, proud of its fusion between residents and industry and its roots that go back to a small, Native American, Tongva village.
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Get More Involved!
The Santa Fe Springs Historical Committee is committed to collecting factual data on the Native American, Spanish-Mexican and European history and culture as it is woven together into the fabric of Santa Fe Springs’ daily life. The Historical Committee is committed to sharing these resources with the schools and citizens in order to supplement any curriculum which may need historical data concerning the Santa Fe Springs area and to chronicle and display the diverse cultural influences on Santa Fe Springs and its impact on city life.
To learn more about the Historical Committee, please call the Library Director at (562) 868-7738. For a committee application, please visit the City's website for an application form. Return the form to the City Clerk’s office in City Hall at 11710 Telegraph Rd. in Santa Fe Springs.
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