From its bustling downtown area and thriving arts scene to its historic neighborhoods and beautiful parks, Santa Ana offers a unique blend of urban amenities and natural beauty. With a diverse population, growing economy, and vibrant community, Santa Ana is a city that has something for everyone. Whether you’re a long-term resident or you’re considering moving here, let’s explore some fun facts about Santa Ana.
1. Santa Ana is the county seat of Orange County, CA
Santa Ana secured the title of county seat in 1889 after successful lobbying efforts, establishing itself as the center of political power in the region.
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2. The Santora Arts Building is listed in the US National Register of Historic Places
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This Santa Ana landmark was built in the 1920s and features Spanish Colonial Revival-style architecture, with stucco walls, red tile roofs, and arched doorways. Over the years, the Santora Building has been home to a variety of businesses, including the popular Daninger’s Tea Room that drew in celebrities for its home cooked meals and great ambiance. Today, the Santora Building is home to restaurants, retail stores, and galleries.
3. Santa Ana was originally developed for cattle grazing and farming
Santa Ana’s farming history dates back to 1769 when a Spanish expedition party leader discovered the stunning valley. The city was used for farming and cattle grazing and known as Rancho Santiago de Santa Ana.
4. Orange County’s oldest courthouse is located in Santa Ana
Located in the historic downtown district of Santa Ana, Old Orange County Courthouse first opened back in 1901. It’s a two-story, Beaux-Arts style building with a dome and clock tower. The interior features marble flooring, stained glass windows, and intricate woodwork.
5. Santa Ana is surrounded by an abundance of natural beauty
Nearby, you’ll find the Santa Ana Mountains, which offer opportunities for hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding, and the Santa Ana River, which is a popular spot for fishing and kayaking.
6. Southern California experiences extreme wind, referred to as the Santa Ana winds
The Santa Ana winds are hot, dry winds that originate in the high-pressure desert regions of the Great Basin and blow towards the California coast, particularly the Southern California region. These winds can increase the risk of wildfires, as they bring low humidity and strong gusts that can quickly spread any sparks or flames.
The Santa Ana winds can also bring uncomfortable conditions with hot temperatures, low air quality, and blowing dust and debris. The winds are most common in the fall and winter months and are a well-known weather phenomenon in the region.
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