The ERVHS archives are open to the public by appointment only. For information/questions/inquiries please write to webmaster@eaglerockhistory.org.
Welcome to Eagle Rock, California
Our historical society objectives are
- To preserve, clarify through research and to perpetuate the history of Eagle Rock Valley
- To make this history available to students, researchers, libraries and all interested persons
- To preserve and protect our local landmarks, especially the Eagle Rock
EAGLE ROCK'S NAME:
The date and origin of the name Eagle Rock for the large conglomerate formation which names our community and the preceding City of Eagle Rock (1911-1923) is unknown. The term seems to be associated with the coming of English speakers to the valley around 1886 when the land was dispersed out of the Rancho San Rafael. The Spanish speakers before this referred to the rock as Piedra Gorda (fat rock).
The association of the term Eagle Rock with the native people of the area (formerly known as Gabrielino now known as Tongva) was asserted by many of the early historians of the valley, most prominently Emma (Mrs. C. W.) Young. The phrasing of these legends together with the lack of actual communication with or knowledge of the native people makes these associations quite doubtful in my view. As far as I know no one has asked the Tongva their view or whether such a legend exists in their oral tradition. This said, below is a version of the legend which was published around 1970 on the back of note cards sold by the Eagle Rock High School Jazz Band.
“Indian Legend – An Indian baby lay on a skin. An Eagle swooped, clutched the babe and flew eastward. The Indians in chase, called to the Sun, “Let him crush himself against the Rock and turn to stone upon it.” ‘Twas done, the infant lay unhurt below.”
“Few landmarks in the United States bear both national emblems-George Washington in profile – the Eagle, front view.”
Some say that the overhang forming the right wing of the spread eagle shadow has been eroded over the years. The photographic evidence, beginning in 1888 is quite inconclusive. Many of the photographs have been retouched to enhance the eagle shadow.
Eric Warren
Archivist
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Upcoming Events
IT’S TIME AGAIN TO CELEBRATE WITH A SCOOP:
OUR ANNUAL ICE CREAM SOCIAL!
OH boy it will be a hot one! It is no surprise why we need to throw this party year after year for over two decades. We love to draw neighbors and friends together in summertime over ICE CREAM. What started as an old fashioned event with good times and prices and has continued to do so. Yes, for only two dollars a scoop and endless toppings (and let’s not forget FREE ADMISSION) we are happy to provide some slow down to this fast paced life we all are leading. So take a break from the heat in the gorgeous and air conditioned Center for the Arts Eagle Rock and JOIN US in celebration of our fantastic community and fascinating local history over ice cream, live music, a bakery booth, local history chit chat (the Route 66 Anniversary next year! What’s up with our unique Oil Service Station? What is happening with the Sparklett’s building?) and much more!
This year’s Social will be dedicated to our late Board member Karen Warren who recently passed. She was at the heart of the Social’s success year after year with her artistic eye of decorating and making the public of all ages feel welcomed into the space. You will learn more about Karen’s incredible legacy and dedication to not just the ERVHS but to our community overall. Please read all the way through this newsletter to the back page where you can learn about her life.