Interested in fun facts and the history of Torrance, CA?
Then read on!
Torrance was founded in 1912 by Jared Sidney Torrance, a real estate developer who wanted to create a planned industrial city in the Los Angeles area. Here are some interesting facts and events in the history of Torrance:
- Torrance was originally inhabited by the Tongva people for thousands of years before Spanish explorers arrived in the 18th century.
- The land that would become Torrance was part of the Rancho San Pedro, a land grant from the Mexican government to Juan Jose Dominguez in 1784.
- In the early 1900s, the land was purchased by the Dominguez Estate Company, which hired Jared Sidney Torrance to develop the area.
- Torrance designed the city with wide streets, parks, and lots of trees to attract businesses and residents.
- In the early years, Torrance was known for its thriving agriculture industry, including dairy farms, fruit orchards, and flower nurseries.
- During World War II, Torrance played a significant role in the war effort as the site of major aircraft factories, including the North American Aviation plant and the Douglas Aircraft Company's main facility.
- In the 1950s and 60s, Torrance grew rapidly as the aerospace industry and other businesses continued to thrive. Today, the city is home to several major companies, including Honda, Pelican Products, and Alcoa Fastening Systems.
- Torrance has also been home to several notable residents, including musician Jack Sheldon, actress Tia Carrere, and professional skateboarder Tony Hawk.
