Nestled in the coastal redwood forests with gorgeous mountain views, yet minutes from the beach, lies a thriving community that enjoys a booming high tech industry, excellent schools, and lovely residential neighborhoods. It is a juxtaposition of these and many other qualities that make Scotts Valley a unique place to live and work. Scotts Valley is unrivaled in its ability to balance industry and community, education and experience, and improvement and beauty. Perhaps it’s the dichotomy of vastly changing landscapes and diverging views, or maybe it’s the way local businesses support and foster a lucrative yet tranquil way of life. Whatever the reason, it is clear that Scotts Valley provides an optimal environment for its residents to thrive in their work and in their lives.
Approximately ten thousand years ago there was a lake in the lowest elevation of Scotts Valley, and Paleo Indians lived near its shores. The lake receded to form a peat bog. Later, around 2000 BC, Ohlone people occupied areas along the remaining creeks, spring and seep areas, along permanent and seasonal drainages, and on flat ridges and terraces.
The California Era
Scotts Valley was named after Hiram Daniel Scott, who purchased Rancho San Agustin, including the valley, in 1850 from Joseph Ladd Majors. Before Majors, the property was owned by José Bolcoff. Bolcoff was the original settler and first European to claim title and live in what was to be Scotts Valley. Hiram Scott built the Greek revival style Scott House in 1853. Situated behind City Hall and is on the National Register of Historic Places. The house originally stood on Scotts Valley Drive, near where a Bank of America branch is now located. It is he and his family whom the City is named for.
1900’s Era of Growth
Beginning in the 1930s, peat moss was removed from Scotts Valley and taken to San Francisco to supply soil for difficult indoor plants such as gardenias. When the peat ran out, sand and gravel were quarried and sold. Camp Evers store and auto camping court was built in the 1920’s and served as the community Hub throughout the 1930’s to 70’s, when other local growth overcame it. Scotts Valley officially became a City in 1966.
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- RR Mountain Mikes & City Officials
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- Scotts Valley Welcome Sign
