In 1883 part of Lucky Baldwin’s estate, Rancho Santa Anita, was sold to William N. Monroe, Monrovia’s namesake.  The City of Monrovia, California was incorporated in 1887, making it the fourth oldest city in Los Angeles County. 

Monrovia is well known for its rich architectural history.  Among its famous homes is The Oaks, an 1884 Victorian that was once William Monroe’s residence.  Another is the Upton Sinclair House, former home of the Pulitzer Prize winning author of “Dragon’s Teeth,” Upton Sinclair.  Its quaint downtown area, filled with unique shops, restaurants and a movie theater has been preserved and restored beautifully.  Economic growth has been encouraged in the business district due to recent redevelopment attracting new companies.

To preserve the overall feeling of the “Gem City of the Foothills,” the city of Monrovia purchased some 800 acres of land from private property owners primarily in the foothills of the San Gabriel Mountains.  This land, wild and undeveloped, consists of scenic trails through Canyon Park Nature Center, a setting for cascading waterfalls and frequent bear sightings.  Bears and mountain lions often wander into backyards of the homes located closest to the foothills.  One well known toothless old grizzly bear named Samson the Bear, gained fame for his “hot tub” escapades in such neighborhoods.

Contributed by: Dickson Podley Realtors