Escondido

History of Escondido

Escondido means “hidden” in Spanish, a nod to its tucked-away valley. Some accounts tie the name to hidden treasure, others to hidden water that made the land fertile for farming.

Escondido was first settled by the Luiseño Indigenous people of California. When Mexico fought for independence against Spain, the land was divided into ranchos. Most of Escondido is what was previously known as “Rancho Rincon del Diablo,” which can be translated into “the devil’s corner” or “the devil’s lurking place.”

In 1883, a group formed the Stockton Company and purchased Rancho Rincon del Diablo for a substantial sum at the time. A year later these landowners transferred their interest in the valley to the Escondido Company. They planted a large vineyard of Muscat grapes that required little irrigation.

The Escondido Company’s ownership of the valley did not last long. In 1886 they deeded the area to the Escondido Land & Town Company, which set to work subdividing the land and planting more vineyards and citrus groves.

The engineering feat of the construction of the Escondido Canal in 1886 transformed the landscape by irrigating previously arid land, boosting agricultural productivity and growth. This period marked the beginning of Escondido’s reputation as a flourishing agricultural hub.

Escondido was incorporated on October 8th, 1888. The city voters elected a marshal, treasurer, clerk and a council.

With the introduction of the railroad, Escondido was connected to major markets which enhanced its agricultural export capabilities.

Every year during the fall season, since 1908, Escondido celebrates the Grape Day Festival, an event that pays homage to its viticultural roots. Grape Day Festival was founded by an early pioneer of the West, Sigmund “Sig” Steiner, who was also one of the first mayors of Escondido. Learn more about Grape Day Festival and how to donate here.

Things to do in Escondido

The California Center for the Arts

The California Center for the Arts anchors the arts scene in North San Diego County, showing local and international talent across performances, exhibitions, and education programs. Regular community events and workshops give people of all ages something to do.

Dixon Lake

Dixon Lake is a good spot for fishing, camping, and hiking, with wide views of Escondido and the surrounding hills that are easy on the eyes for photographers and anyone who likes being outdoors.

San Diego Zoo Safari Park

The San Diego Zoo Safari Park covers thousands of acres and is home to thousands of animals across hundreds of species. You can get close to the wildlife on experiences like their safari tours. San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance provides educational insight into the global efforts in wildlife preservation and conservation efforts.

San Diego Archaeological Center

Founded in 1993 the San Diego Archaeological Center in Escondido provides an unparalleled glimpse into Southern California’s past, with artifacts, exhibits and interactive learning experiences that span thousands of years of human history in the region. The center is a hub for archaeological research, offering insights into ongoing studies and discoveries that shape our understanding of historical developments in San Diego County.