South Monrovia Island, CA

South Monrovia Island is a small unincorporated community located in Los Angeles County, California. Its history is closely intertwined with the neighboring city of Monrovia, which was founded in 1886.

The area where South Monrovia Island is situated was once inhabited by the indigenous Tongva people. European settlement began in the mid-19th century when California became part of the United States. In the 1870s, William N. Monroe, a successful entrepreneur and a prominent businessman, purchased the vast Rancho Santa Anita, which encompassed the present-day Monrovia and South Monrovia Island.

Monroe envisioned establishing a prosperous community and began developing the area. He created a street grid, planted citrus orchards, and attracted other settlers to the region. In 1886, Monroe officially founded the city of Monrovia and began selling land to further promote development. South Monrovia Island, originally known as Monroe Island, was one of the parcels he sold.

South Monrovia Island initially served as an agricultural area, with farmers growing citrus fruits, avocados, and other crops. The island was surrounded by the San Gabriel River, Santa Anita Wash, and the Duarte Wash, giving it a unique geographical location. However, due to frequent flooding and limited road access, the area faced challenges in terms of transportation and infrastructure development.

Over time, both Monrovia and South Monrovia Island experienced growth and transformation. The citrus industry thrived well into the early 20th century, with packing houses and canneries becoming a significant part of the local economy. As the region evolved, agriculture gradually declined, giving way to residential development and the expansion of urban areas.

Today, South Monrovia Island remains a small, tight-knit community within the larger Monrovia region. It is primarily a residential neighborhood, characterized by diverse styles of homes, ranging from small cottages to larger estates. Despite its proximity to Monrovia, South Monrovia Island has retained a distinct identity and charm.

Throughout its history, South Monrovia Island has faced challenges such as flood control and maintaining its unique character in the face of urbanization. However, the community has persevered, preserving its heritage and sense of community.

Some attractions in South Monrovia Island, CA are:

Santa Anita Park

A historic racecourse and horse racing venue with beautiful grounds and a picturesque setting.

Monrovia Canyon Park

A serene and scenic park offering various hiking trails, picnic areas, and a waterfall.

Library Park

A well-maintained park with a peaceful lake, walking paths, and a playground for kids.

Duarte Historical Museum

A museum that showcases the history and culture of the Duarte area.

Duarte Sports Park

A recreational park with sports fields, playgrounds, and picnic areas for outdoor activities.

Angeles National Forest

A sprawling forest area that offers hiking, camping, and stunning views of nature.

Old Town Monrovia

A charming downtown area with a variety of boutique shops, restaurants, and local businesses.

Santa Fe Dam Recreation Area

A large recreational park with a lake for boating, fishing, and other water activities.

Wildrose Gardens

A hidden gem featuring beautifully manicured gardens, water features, and a variety of plant species.

Monrovia Historical Museum

A small museum that preserves and displays the history of Monrovia and its surrounding area.

South Monrovia Island, California has a Mediterranean climate which is characterized by mild, wet winters and warm, dry summers. Here are some key features of the climate:

Temperatures

The average temperature throughout the year ranges from 50°F (10°C) to 85°F (29°C). Summers are typically warm with temperatures reaching the 90s°F (30s°C) on some occasions. Winters are generally mild with temperatures staying above freezing.

Rainfall

South Monrovia Island receives most of its rainfall between November and April. The total annual precipitation is around 20 inches (510 mm) with periods of heavy rain during the winter months. Summers are dry with virtually no rainfall.

Sunshine

The island experiences plenty of sunshine throughout the year. Summers are particularly sunny with long, clear days. The island receives an average of 280 sunny days per year.

Fog

Coastal fog is common in South Monrovia Island, primarily during the spring and early summer months. This fog often rolls in from the Pacific Ocean during the evening hours and can linger until mid-morning.

Winds

The island experiences moderate winds throughout the year, especially during the summer months when offshore winds blow from the interior toward the coast. These winds can have a cooling effect, providing relief from the warm temperatures.

Overall, South Monrovia Island offers a pleasant Mediterranean climate with mild winters and warm, dry summers. The combination of rainfall and sunshine throughout the year supports the growth of a variety of plant life on the island.

South Monrovia Island, CA is a small unincorporated community located in Los Angeles County, California. Despite its small size, it is home to several distinct neighborhoods.

Mayflower Village

Mayflower Village is a neighborhood within South Monrovia Island, known for its charming homes and suburban atmosphere. It is primarily a residential area, consisting of single-family homes and lush greenery. The neighborhood is known for its community-oriented events and its proximity to parks and schools.

Bradoaks

Bradoaks is another neighborhood within South Monrovia Island, located towards the western portion of the community. This area is recognized for its picturesque tree-lined streets and a mix of well-maintained historic homes and newer constructions. Bradoaks is known for being a family-friendly neighborhood with a strong sense of community.

Whispering Oaks

Whispering Oaks is a residential neighborhood situated towards the eastern part of South Monrovia Island. Similar to the other neighborhoods, it features an array of well-kept homes, often with large yards and gardens. This area is known for its tranquility, as its name suggests, offering residents a peaceful living environment.

Lower Monrovia Canyon

Lower Monrovia Canyon is a neighborhood located on the southern edge of South Monrovia Island. This area is uniquely characterized by its proximity to the beautiful Monrovia Canyon Park, a popular spot for hiking, picnicking, and exploring nature trails. The neighborhood itself offers a mix of housing options, including single-family homes and apartment complexes.

Hillcrest

Hillcrest is a neighborhood situated in the southwest corner of South Monrovia Island. It is known for its sloping streets, which provide stunning views of the San Gabriel Valley. The housing in Hillcrest ranges from modest single-family homes to larger, luxurious properties. The neighborhood is conveniently located near schools, parks, and shopping centers.

Each of these neighborhoods in South Monrovia Island offers its own unique character and charm. Together, they form a tight-knit community that values a peaceful suburban lifestyle and a strong sense of community.