The Rich History of Idyllwild, California
Nestled in the San Jacinto Mountains of Southern California is the picturesque mountain town of Idyllwild. While it is now known for its stunning natural scenery and thriving arts community, Idyllwild has a rich history that dates back long before it was a tourist destination.
Ancient Beginnings
The Cahuilla people were the first inhabitants of the Idyllwild area, and their presence in the region dates back thousands of years. They considered the area to be sacred, and would often hold ceremonies and gather there. Even today, the Cahuilla have a strong connection to the land and continue to celebrate their culture and traditions in the region.
A Retreat for the Wealthy
In the late 1800s, Idyllwild became a retreat for the wealthy. The mild climate and stunning scenery drew wealthy visitors from nearby cities, and many built summer homes in the area. One such visitor was George Hannahs, who built a summer camp next to his sawmill in upper Dutch Flat. He named it “Camp Idyllwilde,” and it quickly became a popular destination for those seeking respite from the heat of the lowlands.
The Growth of a Community
As more and more people discovered the beauty of Idyllwild, it began to grow into a thriving community. Miners, loggers, and cattlemen came to the region in search of wealth, and many stayed to make a life in the mountains. By the turn of the 20th century, Idyllwild had established itself as a year-round community with a school, a post office, and several businesses.
A Hollywood Connection
Idyllwild’s stunning natural scenery and rustic charm soon drew the attention of Hollywood. In 1914, famed director Cecil B. DeMille discovered the area and began filming in Garner and Strawberry valleys. Some of his earliest productions, including “The Girl of the Golden West,” were filmed in Idyllwild. Soon, other filmmakers followed suit, and the area became a popular destination for location filming.
The Name Change
Originally known as Strawberry Valley, Idyllwild’s name can be traced back to the summer of 1890. That year, George and Sarah Hannahs opened a tent resort on a forested bench just west of Strawberry Creek and called it “Camp Idylwilde.” However, when the post office was established in 1901, it was misnamed “Idyllwild,” and the name stuck.
A Booming Real Estate Market
Intent on making “Mile High Idyllwild” the “Alps of Southern California,” developers flooded the area in the early 1920s to capitalize on the booming real estate market. They built homes, hotels, and other infrastructure to support the growing community. However, the Great Depression hit Idyllwild hard, and many of the developers and investors left the area.
A Thriving Arts Community
In the decades following World War II, Idyllwild took on a new identity as a thriving arts community. The town’s natural beauty and peaceful setting drew artists, writers, and musicians, who found inspiration in the rugged mountain landscape. Today, Idyllwild is known as an arts hub, with dozens of galleries, workshops, and festivals celebrating the creative spirit of the region.
Conclusion
From its ancient beginnings as a sacred site for the Cahuilla people to its modern identity as a thriving arts community, Idyllwild has a rich and diverse history. Its stunning natural beauty, scenic vistas, and peaceful setting continue to draw visitors from around the world. Whether you are seeking solitude and reflection or inspiration and creativity, you are sure to find it in this vibrant mountain town.