By R.L. Cultrona
Palm Springs is a California
resort town, located approximately 100 miles east of
Los Angeles. This city is known for its abundance of golf courses, plentiful shopping, and beautiful
resorts. Palm Springs has always been home to many famous people, such as Frank Sinatra and Sonny Bono (who was mayor for a time). While Palm Springs has become an increasingly popular resort destination in recent years, it has a long and varied history.
Beginnings
The desert around Palm Springs was home to indigenous people more than 10,000 years ago. These people eventually died out after 1,000 years and were replaced by the Cahuilla Indians. This tribe remained in the area through the 1700's, but died out due to a Small Pox outbreak, introduced to the tribe by Spanish settlers.
American Interest
In 1853, the United Stats sent a survey party led by William P. Blake to the area, clearing the way for Palm Springs to become a stop on the Bradshaw Stagecoach Line in 1872. The railroad officially came to the area in 1877.
Early 20th Century
By 1900, Palm Springs had a post office, hotel, and several downtown buildings. It erected the town's first schoolhouse in 1914. World War II brought huge expansion to the area, as the desert became a training ground for troops. After the War, the area became home to many Hollywood stars, after which tourists began to travel there frequently.
After the War
In the late 1940's and 1950's, the area became home to many Hollywood stars, including Frank Sinatra, Kirk Douglas, and Bob Hope. The city began to expand as more resorts and golf courses were built to keep up with demand.
Today
The Palm Springs currently bears little resemblance to the stagecoach town it once was. It is home to more than 85 golf courses, 600 tennis courts, 10,000 pools, and a population of 42,000 people. It continues to draw visitors and new residents regularly and is one of California's most visited vacation destinations.
About the Author:
R.L. Cultrona is a San Diego native and a graduate of San Diego State University. She holds a Bachelor of Arts in theater, television and film with a minor in communications and political science. She began writing online instructional articles in June 2009.
