North El Monte, CA
County: Los Angeles
History
North El Monte is a small census-designated place (CDP) located in Los Angeles County, California. The history of North El Monte is closely intertwined with the larger city of El Monte, of which it originally formed a part.
The area that is now North El Monte was originally inhabited by the Tongva Native American tribe before the arrival of Spanish explorers in the late 18th century. The Spanish colonization of California led to the establishment of missions and ranchos in the region, with El Monte being granted as a land grant in 1841, making it one of the oldest settlements in California.
During the mid-19th century, El Monte became a thriving agricultural community, mainly focusing on the production of wheat, nuts, and fruit trees, particularly citrus. With the arrival of the Southern Pacific Railroad in the 1870s, El Monte saw a significant increase in transportation and trade, further boosting its economic growth.
North El Monte, specifically, started to develop in the early 20th century. In 1913, the Pacific Electric Railway established a Red Car line that connected Downtown Los Angeles to El Monte, passing through North El Monte. This transportation link allowed for the expansion of residential areas and further economic development.
Throughout the 20th century, North El Monte continued to grow as a residential community, with many homes being built during the post-World War II housing boom. The region primarily remained an agrarian area, with farming and agriculture playing a significant role in the local economy.
Over time, urbanization and suburban development transformed the area, and North El Monte became a separate CDP from El Monte in 1991. Today, North El Monte is a relatively small residential community, primarily characterized by single-family homes. It is known for its peaceful suburban atmosphere, tree-lined streets, and proximity to various recreational areas such as Whittier Narrows Recreation Area and the Santa Fe Dam.
While North El Monte has experienced changes over the years, its history remains closely connected to the broader story of El Monte, reflecting the broader patterns of settlement, agricultural development, and suburbanization in Southern California.
Attractions
Whittier Narrows Recreation Area
It is a large park that offers various recreational activities such as boating, fishing, hiking, biking, skateboarding, and picnicking. It also has a nature center and a bird sanctuary.
Legg Lake
This lake is situated within the Whittier Narrows Recreation Area and is a popular spot for fishing and boating. It also has trails for walking and biking.
The Lakes Mall
It is a shopping center that offers a variety of stores, restaurants, and entertainment options such as an AMC movie theater.
El Monte Golf Course
This 18-hole golf course offers a challenging game for golf enthusiasts. It also has a driving range and a clubhouse.
Juan Matias Sanchez Adobe
It is a historic adobe house that was built in the early 19th century and served as a residence, store, and post office. It is now a museum that showcases artifacts and exhibits related to the area's history.
Santuario de Nuestra Señora de Guadalupe
This Catholic church is known for its beautiful architecture and hosts various religious events and celebrations.
La Historia Society Museum
It is a small museum dedicated to preserving and showcasing the history of El Monte and its surrounding areas. It exhibits historical artifacts, photographs, and documents.
Please note that some attractions might be located in nearby areas rather than specifically in North El Monte, as North El Monte is a small census-designated place within the larger city of El Monte.
Climate
North El Monte, located in Los Angeles County, California, experiences a Mediterranean climate. This type of climate is characterized by mild, wet winters and warm, dry summers. The area receives most of its precipitation between the months of November and February.
Winters in North El Monte are typically mild, with average temperatures ranging from 50°F (10°C) to 70°F (21°C). The coldest month is usually December, with temperatures occasionally dropping below 40°F (4°C) at night. Rainfall during this season is moderate, with an average of around 3-4 inches (7-10 cm) per month.
Summers in North El Monte are warm and dry, with temperatures ranging from 80°F (27°C) to 100°F (38°C). The hottest month is typically July, with average temperatures in the high 80s°F (30s°C). Precipitation during the summer months is minimal, with most days being sunny and dry.
The spring and fall seasons in North El Monte are characterized by mild temperatures and moderate rainfall. Spring temperatures range from 60°F (15°C) to 80°F (27°C), while fall temperatures range from 60°F (15°C) to 75°F (24°C). Both seasons experience average precipitation of around 1-2 inches (2.5-5 cm) per month.
Overall, North El Monte, CA, enjoys a pleasant climate with warm summers and mild winters. The moderate amount of rainfall allows for a relatively green environment throughout the year.
Neighborhoods
North El Monte, CA is a small, unincorporated community located within Los Angeles County. While it is relatively small in area, North El Monte is divided into several distinct neighborhoods, each with its own unique characteristics. Here are some of the neighborhoods you can find in North El Monte:
Whistler Avenue
This neighborhood is known for its quiet, suburban streets and primarily residential properties. The area is characterized by well-maintained homes, manicured lawns, and tree-lined streets, providing a peaceful and family-friendly atmosphere.
Tyler Avenue
Tyler Avenue is another residential neighborhood in North El Monte. It features a mix of single-family homes, townhouses, and apartments. This area is known for its diverse community and close-knit atmosphere, with residents often gathering at local parks and community events.
Peck Road
Located near the western edge of North El Monte, Peck Road is a mix of residential and commercial properties. This neighborhood offers convenient access to amenities such as shopping centers, restaurants, and schools. It is a bustling area with a range of housing options and a robust commercial presence.
Arden Village
Arden Village is a mobile home community in North El Monte. It provides affordable housing options for residents and offers a tight-knit community atmosphere. The neighborhood features well-maintained mobile homes and communal amenities such as swimming pools and clubhouses.
Lower Azusa Road
Lower Azusa Road is a major thoroughfare in North El Monte, running east-west through the area. While it is primarily commercial, with shopping centers, restaurants, and businesses lining the street, there are also some residential pockets along this road.
These are just a few of the neighborhoods that make up North El Monte, CA. Each neighborhood offers its own unique living experience and sense of community, contributing to the overall character of this small and diverse unincorporated area.