From its earliest days, Modesto (Spanish for modesty) has been a community dedicated to growth, progress and the quality of community life.
In 1870, when it became generally known where the new town of Modesto was to be located, there was a stampede of businesses, dwellings, furniture and people rapidly moving to the one-mile square railroad town. Modesto became the end of the railroad line November 8, 1870, and it took another two years to construct the tracks as far as Merced. When newcomers got off the train here they saw a community of approximately 25 buildings, either hastily built or moved from other locations when the Central Pacific Railroad announced its selection of the Modesto site. It was a bleak settlement on the plains without trees or vegetation but an abundance of wind-blown sand.By 1910, Modesto's population was estimated at 4,500. City fathers referred to the young community as the "most metropolitan and classy of its size in California." Modesto soon became known as the "Rose City" and the "Garden City" because of its many rose bushes and well-manicured lawns.
Emphasis was placed on education and cultural amenities-schools and theaters received priority treatment. The local media boasted of the academic achievements of the city's students, and of the first-rate theatrical productions and entertainers.
In 1912, the downtown Modesto Arch, located at 9th and I streets, was built for a cost of $1,200. The illuminating arch holds 668 lights, stands 25 feet high at its center, and spans 75 feet across I Street. Details of a 1911 contest reveal that the slogan for the arch, "Water, Wealth, Contentment, Health," was selected by a committee of the Modesto Business Men's Association. They paid Sam Harbaugh $3 for his winning slogan.
In the last decades of Modesto's history, there has been progress, vision and growth beyond even founder William Ralston's prediction for the wheat field that was Modesto in 1870. Attracting new business-from retail to manufacturing to the services industry-and keeping up with the demands of future technology and innovation are vital to the growth of Modesto. Afterall, we are a well-established community filled with civic pride and grand plans for the future.
Modesto is a community proud of its vibrant citizenry, great traditions, educational opportunities, and multicultural lifestyles, Modesto is twice-blessed with mild weather year-round and some of the world's richest soil.
Part of California's fertile Central Valley, which stretches 300 miles through the center of the state, Modesto offers the diversity and facilities of a metropolitan city, but still maintains an atmosphere of old-fashioned hospitality. With a population exceeding 203,000, it is the largest city and the seat of Stanislaus County.
Centrally located on Highway 99, Modesto is easily accessible from throughout California. West of the valley and over the coastal mountain range lies the San Francisco Bay Area, a 90-minute drive from Modesto. Eastward are the foothills that house the famed Mother Lode gold country and lead to the majestic Sierra Nevada mountain range and Yosemite National Park.
Modesto is located in the heart of one of the greatest agricultural areas of our nation - the San Joaquin Valley. Dairy products, almonds, apricots, melons, tomatoes, wine grapes, peaches, walnuts and poultry products are some of our top commodities. Join us in early spring to enjoy the delightful sights and smells of orchard blossoms. Visit here in the summer or fall harvest seasons and "taste Modesto" at our Farmers Market or at a roadside produce stand.
If your tastes run more to the adventurous side, there is rafting on the Stanislaus River, bike trails throughout Modesto, horseback riding at area ranches, and outdoor in-line skating or skateboarding at Modesto's newest skate park. Maybe you would rather explore our regional mall or local shopping centers, picnic in one of our many parks, visit our McHenry Museum, play a round of golf or just bask poolside in our warm sunshine. Whatever you choose, you will have the opportunity to enjoy all of the "Water, Wealth, Contentment, Health" that Modesto has to offer!
Regarding education, The Modesto City Schools District has earned a reputation for providing excellent instructional programs. The District serves approximately 31,000 students in 23 elementary schools, three junior high schools, a middle school, five high schools, and an extensive Alternative Education Program.
Recreation
Modesto is rich in rivers, lakes and has an abundance of year 'round recreational opportunities, both indoor and outdoor, for all to enjoy! Here, you can enjoy a quiet picnic at one of our 66 parks, play a round of golf at one of our three beautiful municipal courses, or catch a Modesto A's baseball game.
Baseball
For the sports enthusiasts, Modesto is the home to the oldest professional sports franchise in the Western United States. The Modesto Nut's of the National Association of Professional Baseball, have served as the launching grounds for such former and present major league stars as Reggie Jackson, Rickey Henderson, Jose Canseco, Mark McGwire and many others. The 70-game home schedule (April-Sept.), features such daily attractions as fireworks, concerts and special fan giveaways. Ticket and food packages are available for groups of 25 and more. The 'Lil A's-an affiliate of the Oakland A's-play their games at the recently renovated John Thurman Stadium.
Golf
The City of Modesto maintains and operates three beautifully landscaped municipal golf courses! You may call 491-GOLF for 24-hour reservations and information.
Creekside Golf Course: Modesto's newest course, Creekside offers a test for every club in your bag! Three lakes, intricately contoured bunkers, narrow fairways and fast, expansive greens make this an 18-hole course suited to the experienced golfer. Call 571-5123 for more course information.
Dryden Park Golf Course: This course borders the Tuolumne River, with mature pines and oaks winding emerald fairways. Beginners and experts alike, who prefer a more traditional round of golf, will appreciate its medium-sized greens and small bunkers on this 18-hole course. Call 577-5359 for more course information.
Modesto Municipal: A 9-hole course, Modesto Muni offers picturesque tree-lined fairways and small, level greens. It is ideal for juniors, seniors, families and those with time for only a quick round. Call 577-5360 for more course information.
Modesto Skate Park
On August 1, 1998, the Modesto community celebrated the grand opening of the Modesto Skate Park. Located adjacent to Beyer Community Park, the skate park is 13,000 square-feet of bowls, ridges, pyramids, and other elements, making the structure an ideal learning vehicle for the novice or advanced skater. In June 1997, the Modesto City Council allocated $150,000 for the park project. The Modesto Skate Park Task Force raised an additional $60,000 in private donations to cover project expenses.
Parks
The City of Modesto maintains and operates 66 parks-337 acres of developed and partially-developed parks. Additionally, the city shares with the City of Ceres and Stanislaus County the Tuolumne River Regional Park, an area consisting of 120 acres of developed and 350 acres of undeveloped land.
Learn more about MODESTO , CALIFORNIA
City of MODESTO , CA official website
County of STANISLAUS, CA official website
City of MODESTO , CA general information
City of MODESTO , CA chamber of commerce
City of MODESTO , CA yellow pages
City of MODESTO , CA newspaper
State of California official site